Non horror from Stephen King - not particularly cheery though but very good

Unlike most of King's novels, this can't be nailed down as "horror," since it contains a few sci-fi...more

Unlike most of King's novels, this can't be nailed down as "horror," since it contains a few sci-fi elements. There are a few disturbing descriptions, but it is gore-free, for the most part. The characters are quite different from King's normal novels, too: the main character is in his seventies, which is notable because authors normally keep main characters at the age of the book's intended audience. The book itself outlines a very unique standpoint on death, and King fans will be amused to note the many allusions to his other works (Pet Sematary, for example). If you've enjoyed most of King's other books, then this one is definitely worth your while as long as you can get through the beginning, which is slightly tedious. But, after that, the pace picks up dramatically, and the book is a very enjoyable experience (and it's one of my favourites from King). As for people new to King, I'd suggest reading his other novels first, but only because of the allusions to them in this book. This book can stand on its own, but it would probably be more enjoyable if the reader can pick out the mentions to King's other works.   hide

I heard a lot of negative reviews for this book and the most frequent comment is that nothing...more

I heard a lot of negative reviews for this book and the most frequent comment is that nothing exciting happens in the book. I believe this is complete bull. Sure the first 200 or so pages don't have much excitement, but that is because you are getting to know the main character and the people around him. And I for one loved the main guy. He is totally human and, at least for me, reminds me of my grandpa- strong! Him and everyone around him are more than just some "character" they are actual humans, and by the time the shit hits the fan around page 220 or so {and when it does it gets very bizzare} you really feel for the man. And that makes it all the more better.   hide

A Stephen King novel with a slightly different take than the his usual books. The book is long and...more

A Stephen King novel with a slightly different take than the his usual books. The book is long and worse than wrapping your fingers around this hunk is that it feels like its long ever step of the way. It drags at times and becomes repetitive at other times that it can become frustrating. Once you manage to get half way it picks up some and we finally have a story. The novel is fantasy at its roots. It becomes more interesting along the way. I had to weigh more than the book itself but I also had to weigh whether or not I should carry on reading it to the end. entertaining at times.   hide

As those who know me will testfy I am Stephen King's biggest fan and not in a Misery sense!! I have...more

As those who know me will testfy I am Stephen King's biggest fan and not in a Misery sense!! I have read all his work since I discovered him when I was 11 years old. This is by far my favourite. I have read two copies to tatters!! I love Ralph and Lois as characters and Clotho and Lachesis are fabulous. My favourite is Atropos as the crazy barber!!! It s a fantastic read I loved it and even now read it at least once or twice a year.   hide