sK You've Chosen Not to Read, and Why

[blunthead]

When I consider which sK to start next, I notice that I tend to avoid certain ones. Sometimes the reason is obvious: it's too long, requires commitment, I'm a guy, end of story.

If I have conscious reasons for not choosing them, sometimes I don't know what those reasons are.

Does anyone else do this with certain sK stuff? If you do, which ones are they, and why?

[the_last_gunslinger]

For me, I've always avoided Carrie and Misery.

In regards to Carrie, I'm kind of afraid it won't compare, style-wise, to some of King's other works. And I hear it's written in a strange way, like the story was taken from a news report. I've never been a big fan of novels that were written in this manner.

And as for Misery, the storyline, though creative, doesn't sound particularly interesting to me. I like King's supernatural novels much more, and I don't feel a strong pull towards this book.

I'm sure I'll get to these two in time, but they won't be for a while.

[Ubasti]

The one Sai King book that I've avoided is Faithful. I just am not a baseball fan and don't know that I could read a book devoted to the sport. I'm sure the day will come where I'll buy it and read it though.

[Haunted]

Is it judging the book by its cover? (You dont care for the colors or the design on the dustjacket?)
The Title does not appeal to you??? (What the heck does that mean?)
You've never heard of the book before. (Maybe a waste of time?)

But on the whole all of the above move you to your next selection, yes?

This is a great place to discuss titles you see and to query the inmates :biggrin2:about them. Perhaps if you had a recommendation??:biggrin2:

[crazycrashink]

I have only conciously put offf 2 that I know of Pet Sematary...because I watched the movie when I was younger, and I wanted to get rid of the memories so I could read the book fresh. Also, I am going to commit blasphemy and say I have never read the DT. I'm going to try an get them all for my summer reading project. I think I have been putting that off because everyone talks about how great it is, and all the references in other books, so I wanted to make sure I have some time carved out to let myself totally immerse in it. Then I can go back and read old favorites like Insomnia and have a whole new perspective!

[blunthead]

Is it judging the book by its cover? (You dont care for the colors or the design on the dustjacket?)
The Title does not appeal to you??? (What the heck does that mean?)
You've never heard of the book before. (Maybe a waste of time?)

But on the whole all of the above move you to your next selection, yes?

This is a great place to discuss titles you see and to query the inmates :biggrin2:about them. Perhaps if you had a recommendation??:biggrin2:Yes, after not choosing From a Buick 8, for instance, I look for another sK which I've yet to read. But those pickings are slim now.

The title From a Buick 8 actually does not appeal to me--I immediately assume something of the subject of the novel, despite knowing better. I avoid some of the ones which have been made into movies, and seek out others which have been. I avoid The Green Mile and Shawshank, for instance. Maybe afraid they're too violent?

And yes, I have gotten encouragements and recommendations, already, especially pertaining to some of the works I've avoided, namely Pet Sematary and 'Salem's Lot.

My idea for this thread is to help us Constant Readers in two ways: 1) let's look at why we aren't reading certain titles, in order to avoid negative thinking which prevents us from discovering the next treasure; and 2) to generate responses about those titles from others who've already made those discoveries.

I do have recommendations, but want to respond as I've described, to those who are avoiding something I already know is great!

[bopropadop]

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon for me. It hasn't received very good reviews from those who's opinion I respect here. Eventually, I'll read it. If for nothing else other than to know I've read everything SK has written.

Thanks for your post!

[blunthead]

For me, I've always avoided Carrie and Misery.

In regards to Carrie, I'm kind of afraid it won't compare, style-wise, to some of King's other works. And I hear it's written in a strange way, like the story was taken from a news report. I've never been a big fan of novels that were written in this manner.

And as for Misery, the storyline, though creative, doesn't sound particularly interesting to me. I like King's supernatural novels much more, and I don't feel a strong pull towards this book.

I'm sure I'll get to these two in time, but they won't be for a while.I've avoided Carrie, too. Not sure why. Misery, however, is one of my favorites. It was written with real sophistication, it's really powerful and scary, and actually, truly hilarious at times. William Goldman, one of my favorite screenplay writers (Magic, Marathon Man, The Princess Bride), was absolutely blown away by the book.

[Danivan]

I've read it twice now and loved it both times but it took me a long time to get to 'The Girl who loved Tom Gordon' I think it was the baseball aspect too. I just realized I forgot all about Faithful, probably for the same reason.

[Q'smum]

I avoided the DT series a long time because of the first book - Gunslinger. Not a western fan in books. Not much of one in the movies either. Imagine being a little girl with one tv in the house with your father insisting on watching every old western in the world on the tv. And when cable and TBS came to the house..OMG! Anyway, I have finally settled down and started reading the series. I had the same aversion to the Regulators, because of the cover. Overcame it quickly, because I wanted to finish the series. The other two that the title has just put me off, but I am sure that I will get around to them, sometime, sorta, :eyebrow::wink2:maybe?:eyebrow: Are Gerald's Game and the Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon. Can't explain it, they just never appealed to me. But after being on this blog, I will eventually have to pick them up.

[mojomofo]

I think I have read all of them. My willpower is not strong enough to resist the siren call of a new unread book :blush:

[blunthead]

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon for me. It hasn't received very good reviews from those who's opinion I respect here. Eventually, I'll read it. If for nothing else other than to know I've read everything SK has written.

Thanks for your post!Your very welcome. I was very much impressed with The Girl Whom Loved Tom Gordon. First of all, it's expertly written. The idea of getting lost in the woods is almost a universal fear, so the subject matter is ideal for sK, which he makes obvious. It's captivating, creepy, and really scary. He puts you in the mind of the individual, who's gradually feeling all the effects of such a horrible experience.

[Lord Black Cat]

Gerald's Game. And if I had trusted my judgment, I would have avoided Dolores Claiborne as well. One of the issues involved is a hard one for me to hear about in any media now.

[blunthead]

The one Sai King book that I've avoided is Faithful. I just am not a baseball fan and don't know that I could read a book devoted to the sport. I'm sure the day will come where I'll buy it and read it though.Your reason for not reading Faithful, which I also have not read, but for a different reason, is perfectly acceptable--except for one thing: King is involved. You just may end up loving it.

Granted, it's non-fiction, probably like a documentary...but there I go again!

[blunthead]

I have only conciously put offf 2 that I know of Pet Sematary...because I watched the movie when I was younger, and I wanted to get rid of the memories so I could read the book fresh. Also, I am going to commit blasphemy and say I have never read the DT. I'm going to try an get them all for my summer reading project. I think I have been putting that off because everyone talks about how great it is, and all the references in other books, so I wanted to make sure I have some time carved out to let myself totally immerse in it. Then I can go back and read old favorites like Insomnia and have a whole new perspective!This reason, that it will require a real commitment, is precisely why I haven't continued beyond The Gunslinger in The Dark Tower series. I fully intend to dive in. I'm just hesitating.

I appreciate what you're saying about being able to return to other favorites, after DT, for a new look. That's encouraging and exciting!
[Double Post]

...The other two that the title has just put me off, but I am sure that I will get around to them, sometime, sorta, :eyebrow::wink2:maybe?:eyebrow: Are Gerald's Game and the Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon. Can't explain it, they just never appealed to me. But after being on this blog, I will eventually have to pick them up.I hear ya per the Western. My Dad was similar to yours. With a few exceptions--but those exceptions are exceptional indeed--I avoid Westerns in most all forms.

I don't read The Gunslinger as a Western, though. It's mythical in theme, timeless, and my feeling about this book is bound to adjust according to the effects I expect The Dark Tower to have on me, whenever I get around to diving into that.

Gerald's Game is unlike anything I've ever read. It sorta occupies a category of it's own, IMHO. It's heavy, a little graphic (not to worry), very creepy, and quite scary. It's brilliant, actually.

[tillyn]

Not usually, I enjoy SK's writing a lot. Slow to start with DT. series, now i'm at the end and it was okay. I enjoy his horror as well as his everyday life stories.(the body.)

[JohnDalglish]

Your reason for not reading Faithful, which I also have not read, but for a different reason, is perfectly acceptable--except for one thing: King is involved. You just may end up loving it.

Granted, it's non-fiction, probably like a documentary...but there I go again!

Hi,

I agree, and as a Scot I know nossing about baseball, in fact I've never been able to get into Tom Gordon for that very reason.

But the fact that the heavy baseball stuff from Stewart O'Nan and Sai King's daily ruminations on life the universe and everything are printed in different fonts makes it easy and painless to skip the sports stuff if wished, and just get an insight into Sai King's daily life for a season, like reading a diary.

And I didn't enjoy Gerald's Game when it was published but I must re-read it soon. I also didn't like From a Buick 8 initially, but enjoyed it far more on a re-read after I'd finished DT, and am looking forward to reading it again.

Long days and pleasant nights

[blunthead]

Not usually, I enjoy SK's writing a lot. Slow to start with DT. series, now i'm at the end and it was okay. I enjoy his horror as well as his everyday life stories.(the body.)I think the main reason I've more than enjoyed literally all of sK, so far, is that there are always very sympathetic, interesting, bizarre characters, who he always manages himself to inhabit, such that they become real, no matter what else happens. In terms of the "suspension of disbelief", sK always succeeds.

This is why I intend to proceed to have eventually, without fail, read everything he'll ever to have written.
[Double Post]

Hi,

I agree, and as a Scot I know nossing about baseball, in fact I've never been able to get into Tom Gordon for that very reason.

But the fact that the heavy baseball stuff from Stewart O'Nan and Sai King's daily ruminations on life the universe and everything are printed in different fonts makes it easy and painless to skip the sports stuff if wished, and just get an insight into Sai King's daily life for a season, like reading a diary.

And I didn't enjoy Gerald's Game when it was published but I must re-read it soon. I also didn't like From a Buick 8 initially, but enjoyed it far more on a re-read after I'd finished DT, and am looking forward to reading it again.

Long days and pleasant nightsThanx John. I'm starting to conceive of trying out Buick.

Gerald's Game is so unique that it may actually be for some and not for others. One of the things I really liked about it were the flashback sequences. Another was the villain, and his so very gradual intrusion into the story. Scary as hell.

And the info per Faithful is reassuring, and helpful, I'm sure, for everyone here who wouldn't want to miss anything from sK.

As far as Tom Gordon, please correct me if I'm wrong, but I simply don't remember much at all in it in the way of baseball.

[Kim L.]

When I consider which sK to start next, I notice that I tend to avoid certain ones. Sometimes the reason is obvious: it's too long, requires commitment, I'm a guy, end of story.

If I have conscious reasons for not choosing them, sometimes I don't know what those reasons are.

Does anyone else do this with certain sK stuff? If you do, which ones are they, and why?

I avoided rereading the DT series for a long time because I just wasn't ready to face what happened to Roland in Wizard & Glass. Length isn't a problem, as I love to lose myself in a book.
[Double Post]
Oh dear, you meant read, not reread. My bad.

[blunthead]

That's okay with me. Maybe we can discuss rereads, as well.

When I think more about the question, I think our book choices are sometimes based on a need for a change, which means sometimes choosing a different author (no death threats, please. I understand that insults and chagrin may be inevitable), or a different kind of story by the same author (there, that's better).

I'm impressed by the way I feel about sK, that, despite periods of change, I really expect to have eventually read everything. I simply enjoy him that much. I can't say that about any other author, and I have a bunch of favorite authors.

[Girl87]

I started to read Black House last summer. But never finished the book because it was to boring for me. Maybe I should try read the Talisman first.

[blunthead]

I started Black House, too, and put it back down (for the time being, thank you very much). I think it was simply that I'd just finished Ghost Story, and wanted something strictly sK.

[Jack Torrance]

I avoided The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon. I really like King's novels but get tired of the constant Boston Red Sox fandom that he enjoys. I do not have anything against the Red Sox but just get tired of hearing it. I think it's great that he is a big fan and enjoys them and all but it just puts me off somewhat. I don't really want to read about it. LOL!

After reading Christine I don't want to read about cars again. So, I have no interest in From a Buick 8 or Dolan's Cadillac. I guess it feels like I have been there and done that and don't want to go there yet again especially two more times.

[blunthead]

I avoided The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon. I really like King's novels but get tired of the constant Boston Red Sox fandom that he enjoys...I have no interest in From a Buick 8 or Dolan's Cadillac...I haven't read Christine, assuming I wouldn't like it. Now that I think about it, and knowing how much I love to read sK, I may've been wrong all this time. Meanwhile, if Christine and Buick are half as good as Dolan's Cadillac, then they're must reads for me.

Tom Gordon simply doesn't contain enough baseball anything, Red Sox or otherwise, to avoid it for that reason. I'm just giving you a heads up, as I see it.

[Bluey Lunger]

having read them all ('cept for that secret windows companion piece) at least once, and more than one of 'em multiple times, i figure i ought to choose one not to read so i could post on this thread. i'm reminded of huck finn, when he finds all those books laid out on the coffee table with the beautiful oilcloth, you know, the one with the red and blue spread-eagle painted on it, and a painted border all around?

huck had issues with pilgrim's progress, about a man that left his family. said the statements in it was interesting, but tough.

trying to come up with one. i'd really like to give the short stories another ride. there's a pile of 'em and many of 'em are short and sweet. there again, can't seem to come up with one i'd chose not to read. enjoyed 'em all, each and every one. sorry. not much help.

[smooth operator]

I have read all of them, except the last 4 DT novels. The only reason I did not read these is because I did not have them. I am pretty sure I have 1 & 2 and either 6 or 7, but I need to get the rest. I guess I will have to get out to the thrift stores and used book shops and get the whole collection together and start over with book 1. I am not really sure why I have not done this before now. Maybe it just seemed like a daunting task.
After reading these posts, I see some other books that I should read again, after I finish reading The Stand again.

[lilchick_20065]

For me there really isn't to many of Stephen King's books that I haven't read. I can say however I really tried to read Buick 8 and Lisey's Story and both books I found it hard to get past the first chapter. My sister ruined it for me for Buick 8 she when she told me it's about one long continuous day and as for Lisey's Story I am just not that drawn to the book. The book that I am reading now by SK is bag of bones and it really is a good book.

[JayneH]

I too couldnt finish Black House - I see it on the shelf but cant bring myself to pick it up again.

I read Pet Sematary once and will never again. Brilliantly written - (maybe too well written) I dont scare easily or get grossed out so dont know what it is about this book (and movie) that makes me .... I think uncomfortable would be the word. Dont know how to describe the feeling I get....:confused:

[Prince of Darkness]

Hi,

The Girl who Loved Tom Gordon, because I'm more into cricket (as that is what we play down here at the South Point of Africa) than baseball.

The Tommyknockers because it gets off to a slow start and all Sai King's other works are better and I still have a LOT to go.

Other than that The Talisman and Black House - because I want the final book, too. T3 must come soon. :smile2:

Long days and pleasant nights

[finalfantasyVII]

Hello, I haven't been around for a few days. I read your msg. and I somewhat agree w/u about westerns...it took me a while to finally pick up the Gunslinger but somewhat enjoyed it...this series SK wrote seemed to be a little too strange for me but at the same time once I started it and/or anything else I've read by SK it always seemed to take a while to get into it...BUT then once I've understood it I've never been able to put down very easy. The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon seemed especially that way but I enjoyed very much. One day I'll start to read the DT series again...most likely because I've forgotten much of the 1st book. The Talisman and then Blackhouse have been my most favorites. Check them out! My only problem seems that I've found SK's newer books better and I'm slowly reading backwords...Also The Storm of the Century just might be my more favorite over The Talisman...I read that (Storm) in only 2 days..then they made the movie..almost exactly according to his screenplay...MUST READ! Plus I can't wait for the graphic novel of the Talisman. Thanks Mark:biggrin2:

[Matthew.Degnan]

Im putting off reading Insomnia, don't know why really, it might give me Insomnia lol

[Natjen24]

I'm hesitant to read 'Storm of the century', because it isn't a fluent story. The idea of reading a script, just doesn't appeal.

As answer to the books most of you mention to be avoiding (Misery, The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon, From a Buick 8) Each and every on of them is great, each in his own style. Sometimes I wish I could reset my mind, so it would all be new again. :smile2:

[blunthead]

Im putting off reading Insomnia, don't know why really, it might give me Insomnia lolYou should try Insomnia--I mean the book. It's one of my favorites. Very psychedelic. Full of the unexpected.

Full of the unexpected is what you want, even expect, from sK, isn't it?

[LittleRedKing]

I could not get very far into "The girl who loved Tom Gordon".

At the time my daughter was about the same age and it just struck too close to home for me. :sad: Maybe when she is older...

Other than that, Geralds Game almost got the brush off from me for much the same reason. Some subject matter is just too...uncomfortable. I struggled through it and found it to be fascinating and scary.

[mojomofo]

You should try Insomnia--I mean the book. It's one of my favorites. Very psychedelic. Full of the unexpected.

Full of the unexpected is what you want, even expect, from sK, isn't it?

I completely agree. Insomnia is one of my all time favorites. I just wore out my second copy. :smile2:

[adrianmarley]

I'm kinda reluctant to pick up The Tommyknockers. I tried to read it many years ago and ended up throwing it aside out of sheer frustration. The point where my patience snapped was the scene with the flying coke machine. It put me off SK for some time, but now I'm starting to really enjoy his books again. I'm just worried that if I pick up that novel again, I'll find myself getting frustrated all over again.

[karend3]

I've never avoided reading any but have been disappointed in only one From a Buick 8

[devilboy666]

the only sk book i havent wanted to read was stephen king goes to the movies simply because i have read all the stories some more than once and that i have them in the orignal collections the other books i havent read not because i havent wanted to but because i havent got around to them yet
thanx

[worddance]

There are quite a few I'm avoiding. Pet Sematary because everyone says it's really scary and gives parents nightmares. As a parent, I don't need any more of those kinds of nightmares.

Gerald's Game because it involves abuse of a woman and it would be too upsetting to me.

I skipped over a few like Christine, the Tommyknockers or Cell just because I'm not that interested and there are others I'd rather read first. I'll probably go back to those later, when I'm in the right mood.

I've read The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon because my husband gave it to me as a birthday present. I liked it. I thought it was very well written.

I don't know if I'll be reading The Dome. Cannibalism? No, I don't think so. But then again if the reviews are really great and people around here really like it, I may change my mind.

I hope to read every SK every written eventually but some will definitely take some time to work up to.

Mary

[LadyHitchhiker]

Cujo I have not read and probably never will, because I feel bad for the dog.

[blunthead]

I could not get very far into "The girl who loved Tom Gordon".

At the time my daughter was about the same age and it just struck too close to home for me. :sad: Maybe when she is older...

Other than that, Geralds Game almost got the brush off from me for much the same reason. Some subject matter is just too...uncomfortable. I struggled through it and found it to be fascinating and scary.I think the above speaks most directly to our hesitations--perceptions, projections even, that the subject matter will either hit too close to home or otherwise simply be too uncomfortable. And the above provides a good example of how we tend to respond in these cases. We either put it off, which is conceivably appropriate in some cases (such as this one, imho), or we, in other cases, are able to face fears we feel we can handle, in order to gain the prize.

I had an assumption about Stationary Bike, totally preconceived, based on no evidence, figured I wouldn't like it based on that assumption. Instead, the first few pages were some of the most enjoyable sK I've read, and it's turning into something fascinating (surprise, surprise); but to the point: there is no similarity between what I'm reading and what I assumed I'd be.

[Sundrop]

I don't have plans to read Faithful. I don't have any reason why except that it's just not my kind of thing. :)

[Moderator]

I don't know if I'll be reading The Dome. Cannibalism? No, I don't think so. But then again if the reviews are really great and people around here really like it, I may change my mind.
Mary


The plot synopsis for Under the Dome is on the Home page and as I've mentioned in the thread for that title, this book is not about cannibalism so it should be safe for you. :smile2:

[blunthead]

I don't have plans to read Faithful. I don't have any reason why except that it's just not my kind of thing. :)I'd like to read the sK part of it, which another poster stated is written separately in the book.

[Born In Sin]

The one Sai King book that I've avoided is Faithful. I just am not a baseball fan and don't know that I could read a book devoted to the sport. I'm sure the day will come where I'll buy it and read it though.


Same here!

[yendor]

The Green Mile. I watched the movie, and although it was a good movie, I don't feel the need to read the book.

[blunthead]

The Green Mile. I watched the movie, and although it was a good movie, I don't feel the need to read the book.Welcome, yendor. I understand that feeling, when having seen the movie, we assume we don't need or want to read the book, especially if we assume that doing so will seem personally too disturbing. But my experience has also been that when I read the book anyway, I'm always glad I did.

Consequently, I intend to read The Green Mile, The Body, Delores Claiborne, and Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, all sK novels, of course, the respective movies of which I've seen.

I haven't seen the movies Pet Semetary, Carrie, Riding the Bullet, 'Salem's Lot, Christine, not to mention many others (you get the point), but intend to read those works whether or not I ever see the movies. sK, so far, simply hasn't let me down.

[worddance]

The plot synopsis for Under the Dome is on the Home page and as I've mentioned in the thread for that title, this book is not about cannibalism so it should be safe for you. :smile2:

Sorry Ms. Mod. I don't want to be spreading misinformation. The plot synopsis for Under the Dome actually sounds intriguing. Sai King loves to make his readers squirm, so I'm sure whatever happens under the dome, it won't be a picnic in the park. :smile2:

[AmandaRose]

well, not that I have chosen not to, I just have yet to bring myself to read them, the Dark Tower series. Someone even mailed me the first 4 books, just cause they wanted me to get started and read them but I still haven't. I dont know why, I feel like, I dont know what it is, its hard to explain, lol.

[Sawney Beane]

I have never avoided anything regarding literature.If it´s on the shelf,I´m going to read it.And if I like it,will probably re-read it.But to be honest, there´s one S.K book that I won´t read ever again,The Library Policeman.For me,it is the most harrowing story S.K has ever written,and although I can suffer all types and forms of fear,and actually have another go after a few months,I just can´t withstand the second half of the story.I just can´t.

[Shasta]

When I consider which sK to start next, I notice that I tend to avoid certain ones. Sometimes the reason is obvious: it's too long, requires commitment, I'm a guy, end of story.

If I have conscious reasons for not choosing them, sometimes I don't know what those reasons are.

Does anyone else do this with certain sK stuff? If you do, which ones are they, and why?

I read every bit I can.

[Tooley]

Christine, because the whole "killer car" aspect. I'm avoiding most of the Bachman novels (just for now) until I become a bigger King fan. I'm also keeping away from Carrie because of the way it was written (or have heard it is written). I'm also putting of the Dark Tower series until I'm a bigger King fan.

[blunthead]

well, not that I have chosen not to, I just have yet to bring myself to read them, the Dark Tower series. Someone even mailed me the first 4 books, just cause they wanted me to get started and read them but I still haven't. I dont know why, I feel like, I dont know what it is, its hard to explain, lol.I think I feel like starting DT (already have, though with The Gunslinger) would feel like biting off more than I can chew. I hafta practice endurance-chewing first, I guess.

[LOTUS]

well, not that I have chosen not to, I just have yet to bring myself to read them, the Dark Tower series. Someone even mailed me the first 4 books, just cause they wanted me to get started and read them but I still haven't. I dont know why, I feel like, I dont know what it is, its hard to explain, lol.


I bought the books a year and a half ago.I didn't start reading immediately,it took me a while to pick up the Gunslinger.Anyway,I could not finish it and put it off.It was not until 2 or 3 months ago,that I gave the series another try.It was worth it,but the right time should come.:smile2:
So don't worry AmandaRose,one day you will get to the DT,when you are ready.:smile2:

[scratchesass]

On Writing..... I'm saving that one for when I get old and constipated and I need good toilet material....

[blunthead]

On Writing..... I'm saving that one for when I get old and constipated and I need good toilet material....You know, saving an sK book for a special time is a truly legitimate, healthy reason not to read one. However, personally I don't find reading a particularly efficient laxative.

[bio_chem06]

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon for me. It hasn't received very good reviews from those who's opinion I respect here. Eventually, I'll read it. If for nothing else other than to know I've read everything SK has written.

Thanks for your post!


I agree...this is one I have avoided. I pick it up and put it down so many times...I don't quit no why I won't read it, but I always think, "maybe another time".

[Desiree]

I can't remember the name of it but it was about a little girl who gets lost in the woods. As a Mom, I can't bear to read anything about a child in harms way even if the child is rescued at the end. Yes, it is a bit like sticking my head in the sand. However, reality inflicts so much harm on so many children that I just don't want to read about it in a book. That being said, I loved "Pet Semetary" but was not a mother when that came out.

[blunthead]

I can't remember the name of it but it was about a little girl who gets lost in the woods. As a Mom, I can't bear to read anything about a child in harms way even if the child is rescued at the end. Yes, it is a bit like sticking my head in the sand. However, reality inflicts so much harm on so many children that I just don't want to read about it in a book. That being said, I loved "Pet Semetary" but was not a mother when that came out.The book to which you refer is The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon. In my opinion, it does not feel like she's suffering or that cruel things are happening to her. It reads like an adventure--and is really more realistic, but not graphically, offensively so--not a nightmarish journey. It's spooky at times, but you wouldn't be an sK fan if you couldn't handle that.

I hope that's helpful. I think you could handle it, and would enjoy it.

[thymeoperator]

reading through this thread has made me want to read every single one of his books, without knowing which to take one at a time! :)

[Richard_B]

Not one I've chosen not to read per se.. but I'm rationing myself on "Just After Sunset" - one new story a month as I know there's no other new material for me until "under the Dome"

[blunthead]

Not one I've chosen not to read per se.. but I'm rationing myself on "Just After Sunset" - one new story a month as I know there's no other new material for me until "under the Dome"That's good. Savor it. Moderation is a good thing. Dunno if I could do it, but I've still got a good bit of sK to devour for the first time.

[Srbo]

Didn`t read all of them yet, and that makes me happy.:smile2:

So much more to read by the master.

And I know I will read all of them...maybe I wont like some of them, but I will read them.

Not doing so would be just the same to me as AC/DC having a new album out and I don`t even bother to give it a listen.

Guess what ?

That ain`t happening - ever.

:smile2:

[Theregulator]

Never really wanted to pick up Christine and have never watched the film.

[King Jacob]

'Salem's Lot is the one that has given me the most trouble, but I can't say that I'm avoiding any particular SK book. Since I'm a morbid sod of sorts, I'll read pretty much anything no matter how disturbing.

[pixiedaark]

I think that you should give Storm of the Century a chance. I found it to be well written. There are some unforgettable characters. I feel that it is one of the scariest and best of SK's works.

[blunthead]

Never really wanted to pick up Christine and have never watched the film.I expect to get to Christine before long, now that I'm realizing that, no matter the presumed subject matter or the title (of all things, yet such things can get in the way), sK tends never to disappoint me.

[cevans56]

I will read the synopsis on the inside cover and see if it appeals - one I tried to read even though the synopsis didn't appeal was Gerald's Game - have tried twice to read and can't get past a certain scene. I think SK makes everything seem so plausible and real and you live his characters - some characters you just don't want to be a part of - you can feel their terror!

[Robert DeSoto]

I haven't really seen the point of 'Gerald's Game', although i do avoid the dark tower series, but partly because i'm waiting til i read the really good novels

[SebastiaanZ]

I didn't start with the DT-series. I don't know. It never attracted me. But know I think I'll start with it this summer.

[blunthead]

I will read the synopsis on the inside cover and see if it appeals - one I tried to read even though the synopsis didn't appeal was Gerald's Game - have tried twice to read and can't get past a certain scene. I think SK makes everything seem so plausible and real and you live his characters - some characters you just don't want to be a part of - you can feel their terror!I think it's possible that you'll be able to finish it one day. Sometimes something is powerful enough to do exactly what you're describing, but we reach a point where we not only can deal with it, we must. I don't believe that's always the case, though. Sometimes we'll never be able to deal with a certain subject, a certain "scene".

For instance, I avoid movies and books, even fictional, which describe animal abuse, and I personally find it hard to apply what I wrote above to that particular subject matter.

[crazycrashink]

I haven't really seen the point of 'Gerald's Game', although i do avoid the dark tower series, but partly because i'm waiting til i read the really good novels

I have to say I think you are missing out! Gerald's Game is fantastic. The internal struggle Jessie deals with while trying to find a way out of the external conflict she faces is just amazing. Jessie is one of the most fully developed characters I have ever read, and her story is awesome!

[Matticus]

I fully agree and if you are waiting to read the really good novels, the Dark Tower series should easily be on that list.

[RachelA]

I've made a choice never to read Cujo because I just know the dog will die at the end, and I don't want to read about that...can't go there! Pet Semetary was different...I am not a cat lover, and I hadn't had children yet. I probably would have a hard time now that I have 3 kids.

[OhmyGod!]

Oh, I try them all!!! I trust Stephen King enough, he wrote so many great books. No problem. Sometimes I don't like a novel that much (like insomnia, rose madder and from a buick 8), but I always start and read it till the end (only insomnia I couldnt read till the end...tried it twice, given up on that novel, and when I first heard about insomnia I thought it would be so scary and such a good read!!!).
When I heard about dolores claiborne as a housekeeper who killed her husband, I almost didn't want to read it, cause it didn't sound scary or interesting to me...and now it's my favorite one!!! Also love The Girl who loved Tom Gorden. (and Im not really a sportsguy...).

[nosila]

I generally don't stay away from any. Though, I have been putting off The Dark Tower series because I don't have enough time to read them all in one sitting like I know I'll want to. :]

[krinsa]

I have passed up the opportunity to read any book whose movie-version I have already seen, like Christine, Carrie, and Storm of the Century. However, against my better judgment, I have seen movie-versions of books I have read, like IT, Tommyknockers and Misery. Generally, I like the movie versions. I just prefer to let the characters and scenery I developed in my head stay with me.

I have not read Tom Gordon(doesn't look interesting to me), Desperation (don't know enough about it) and the last books of DT. I started DT and read the first three books really fast-then I had to wait for the 4th to come out and, by the time it did, I had forgotten what the first 3 were about! I did not want to re-read them because there were other SK books I had wanted to read by then. I will get to them eventually because I enjoyed the beginning of the series immeasurably!

[IUSMPhD]

I haven't read Faithful because I cannot STAND the Red Cubs! The only other book I haven't read is Danse Macabre, but I'm not actively avoiding it. I just never see it anywhere or think to get it.

[moonhoney2]

I've avoided his non-fiction works and the manuscripts. Have no interest in them. I don't care about his thinking process, just that he thinks! LOL

I also find myself avoiding some of his older works...Carrie, Christine, pet cemetary. Probably because they have been made into movies that I watched. The movies "date" the story for me and I cannot let my imagination run with the story anymore. I will forever see Sissy as Carrie in that horrible '70s style dress. LOL I've since learned to never watch a movie based on an SK book. ;)

[mrbeer]

Like alot of others, I have avoided The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon. I've had a nice hardcover copy, which looks basically unused, that I got at a used book sale for a while now, but when perusing my shleves for something to read, it never grabs my attention. I don't know if it was the bad reviews or what, but it might be a while before I read it.

[Cognac]

just the plant, because its not in book form, and stephen king goes to the movies, because i havent seen all of those movies

[blunthead]

...The only other book I haven't read is Danse Macabre, but I'm not actively avoiding it. I just never see it anywhere or think to get it.Danse Macabre is an excellent reference book for the discovery of treasures in literature and film, and you know you can trust sK's judgment. He won't lead you astray.

[blunthead]

I've avoided his non-fiction works and the manuscripts. Have no interest in them. I don't care about his thinking process, just that he thinks! LOL

I also find myself avoiding some of his older works...Carrie, Christine, pet cemetary. Probably because they have been made into movies that I watched. The movies "date" the story for me and I cannot let my imagination run with the story anymore. I will forever see Sissy as Carrie in that horrible '70s style dress. LOL I've since learned to never watch a movie based on an SK book. ;)What I continue to find is that my preconceived notions about sK's work are always faulty--it's always better than I expect.

[Carri]

I started The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon a few years back, but I could not finish it. My daughter was the same age as the main character at the time, and I just could not deal with the anxiety of it. Honest to God, the scary was just too real for me. Once the little girl started getting covered with mosquito bites, I had to stop. I will probably go back and finish it someday, though.

[Aarny]

I'm sort of avoiding "Cycle of the Werewolf", but I know I'll pick it up since it's really short.

[TheHardcase]

For me, I've always avoided Carrie and Misery.

In regards to Carrie, I'm kind of afraid it won't compare, style-wise, to some of King's other works. And I hear it's written in a strange way, like the story was taken from a news report. I've never been a big fan of novels that were written in this manner.

I was well along in my reading of SK's books by the time I got to Carrie. And my reasons were similar to yours. In addition, I had seen the movie (several times) -- bad mistake, since very few film versons of SK's works live up to the printed material -- and I convinced myself I already knew all there was to know about the story.

Was I ever wrong! It was a powerhouse of a first novel. As for his style or the lack thereof, I was astonished at how polished he was as a writer that early in his career. Carrie stands up well to the best of King's later works. Do yourself a favor, and read it. Don't deprive yourself of a genuinely satisfying reading experience.

As for the news clip style, so to speak -- that part of the story takes up very little space in the overall narrative. It serves as a frame for various parts of the story. Not every writer can bring it off as masterfully as SK did. But then, he's not just any writer.


And as for Misery, the storyline, though creative, doesn't sound particularly interesting to me. I like King's supernatural novels much more, and I don't feel a strong pull towards this book.

I'm sure I'll get to these two in time, but they won't be for a while.

To me, Misery was one of the most horrific novels I've ever read, by King or any other novelist. The fact that he accomplishes this so completely speaks to his skill as a writer.

I've known people like Annie Wilkes -- those folks who can go from caring and solicitous to red-faced with hysteria in the wink of an eye -- and they are truly frightening. King captures the nuances of this personality type with gripping intensity.

I can't speak to your lack of interest in the subject material. Just be aware that horror is where you find it -- in the supernatural, or in everyday life. And this fact is not lost on Stephen King.

I hope you read this one too. My guess is you won't be disappointed.

[blunthead]

I'm sort of avoiding "Cycle of the Werewolf", but I know I'll pick it up since it's really short.Go ahead with Cycle. It's an easy read. Maybe you think you've seen or read all you care to dealing with werewolves, that this would be "same ole". It isn't. It's a unique story very well told.

[the_last_gunslinger]

Go ahead with Cycle. It's an easy read. Maybe you think you've seen or read all you care to dealing with werewolves, that this would be "same ole". It isn't. It's a unique story very well told.

I've been meaning to pick this book up, too. I don't know why I haven't. Ebay has it relatively cheap. Maybe after I am done with the five or six books I have yet to read, I'll pick it up. It doen'st look like it will be that difficult to get through, though I hear it represents a slight divergance from what King generally writes.

[hipmamajen]

I avoided the DT series for a long time. The title "Gunslinger" put me off. I thought, "Really? A gunslinger? Come on, really?! How scary could a western be?"

I only started on them because the folks here have been so positive about the series. So, thanks to you all, I'm burning through them :)

[Drummerboy]

I have a few SK books I've chosen not to read..at least not yet.
Pet Cemetary-I watched the movie a long time ago, don't remember much but, don't seem very excited to read it.
Christine- Again, I watched the movie a long time ago, and the whole 'killer-car' thing doesn't appeal much to me. I assume 'Buick 8' is much the same(I assume...)
Salem's Lot-When I was little, it was on t.v. or something and I just remember one scene where a character(David Soul?) was driving a stake through the vampire and he came alive and was going crazy. I think that scene gave me nightmares, back in the day. But anyway..I feel like I know what the book is about or something, and don't feel like reading it.
Misery-I haven't watched it but, I know the scene where she put's the wood-block between his legs and takes the sledge to them. Sounds stupid but..it feel like I've watched the movie from this one scene and don't need to know the rest of it(same as Salem's Lot). I hope to read them some day, I'm sure they're great!!
And the Dark Tower books-I'm not into the Western stuff. But I'm sure with a SK twist on it..it'll be fine.
With all of that being said..I HAVE read numerous SK books, and enjoyed them all. Some I thought were just ok, but others were very, very good!!
Sorry to be so long-winded. Take care, all!!
Kennan

[Aarny]

Go ahead with Cycle. It's an easy read. Maybe you think you've seen or read all you care to dealing with werewolves, that this would be "same ole". It isn't. It's a unique story very well told.

I'll probably pick it up eventually. I haven't read that much about werewolves to be honest

[tillyn]

On Writing, keep looking at it but haven't picked it up. I don't know if i want to know why he writes, i just know i like what he writes.

[worddance]

On Writing, keep looking at it but haven't picked it up. I don't know if i want to know why he writes, i just know i like what he writes.

In addition to being informative and inspiring, On Writing is a very entertaining read. And it contains a lot of biographical info about his family and his writing career, if you're into that. No one tells a story like SK, even when he's telling his own story. The chapter when he tells about his accident will blow you away.

Mary

[blunthead]

On Writing, keep looking at it but haven't picked it up. I don't know if i want to know why he writes, i just know i like what he writes.I'm not much of a fan of non-fiction; nevertheless, I enjoy sK's non-fiction. On Writing helped me get to know him better. Anything that can do that for me is fun.

[BDenbrough]

For me, I've always avoided Carrie and Misery.

In regards to Carrie, I'm kind of afraid it won't compare, style-wise, to some of King's other works. And I hear it's written in a strange way, like the story was taken from a news report. I've never been a big fan of novels that were written in this manner.

And as for Misery, the storyline, though creative, doesn't sound particularly interesting to me. I like King's supernatural novels much more, and I don't feel a strong pull towards this book.

I'm sure I'll get to these two in time, but they won't be for a while.

CARRIE is my favorite Stephen King novel, I've read it 7 times! (yeah scary). It IS a little different in style, and it kinda confuses you a little at first...but it's worth it. SO much in the book that the movie didn't cover, as usual.

[hipmamajen]

In addition to being informative and inspiring, On Writing is a very entertaining read. And it contains a lot of biographical info about his family and his writing career, if you're into that. No one tells a story like SK, even when he's telling his own story. The chapter when he tells about his accident will blow you away.

Mary


I agree. There are parts that were so funny that I read them out loud to my family. Other parts actually made me cry a little. (I'm a wienie that way, though.) And I'll never look at adverbs the same way again...

Give it a try, it wasn't what I expected and you might be surprised, too. :)

[BobbyV]

Carrie, Gerald's Game (recently started, not a fan), and ...Tom Gordon for me. I've started them all and couldn't finish them. Not a Sox fan so I won't read Faithful either. SK's still my literary hero, though!

[Bryan James]

Cujo I have not read and probably never will, because I feel bad for the dog.

I'm not going to saunter in, swinging my scythe, sprinkling Lethe and Depenthe everywhere.........but 'Cujo' is one of King's best books.

I have never seen the movie.

I have not seen 'Carrie" (either version), and I thought that short book was 250 pages too long.

Opinion,
BJS

[Bryan James]

'Lisey's' made me think King was either back on the sauce again or had some painkiller issues. I hope not, since I loved it. It was like a dreamsequenced sequel to 'The Dark Half.'

Overall, 'Black House' was a letdown for me...maybe because I dug 'Talisman' so much. Enjoyable, but it didn't give me any of that "punched in the gut" feeling. Maybe I just got too old in between the two books.

The Tower series I picked up, off and on, over the years...then I read them all at a straight clip. I'm smarter than the average Shardik, but reading them all back to back was cool.

I love that Karate Kid movie with Hillary Swank in it because it has Hillary Swank in it.

My opinion is no more valuable than anyone else's.

BJS

[blunthead]

Cujo I have not read and probably never will, because I feel bad for the dog.If there's anything I have a real problem with in the world it's animals hurting. I won't go to movies that depict harm to animals. So, reading Cujo could possibly pose a problem for me.

But experience has taught me that sK doesn't enjoy cruelty, that he includes only what he feels must be told to tell the story. So, I'll read Cujo one day.

[Kinglutz]

If you are ever going to skip one of his books, make it L. Story. It took me two tries to get through it. I'm not sure if he even wrote it; it's a story to his wife, obviously, and I wonder if she actually wrote it. I've never read any of her books, but I wonder about L. Story. It had interesting parts, but the horror/sci-fi parts seemed like they were thrown in as an after thought.

[Kinglutz]

The DT series is great, but parts 2 & 3 are the worst. The first is a quick read, and part four is awesome, but be prepared for some slow parts in parts 2&3. The series is worth reading, for sure, but as you're stuck in a gun store in part 2 for about 50 pages keep on reading!

[SKrules45]

i have avoided reading The Shining because i saw the movie before i was about to read the book, which yes i know was very stupid, but i am just going to read the book anyways.

also i have avoided Pet Cemetary because i herd it was very sad and somber and disturbing,,,i dunno? :eyebrow:

[jackson992]

Parts 2 and 3 move a lot faster than the first book I love the gun store part. But then I love all the things that happen in our world.

[blunthead]

i have avoided reading The Shining because i saw the movie before i was about to read the book, which yes i know was very stupid, but i am just going to read the book anyways.

also i have avoided Pet Cemetary because i herd it was very sad and somber and disturbing,,,i dunno? :eyebrow:The Shining was my first sK book, which I chose because I'd seen the movie and wanted to get a better understanding of it. I expect you'll find the book much different, and better than the movie.

I also have yet to read Pet Sematary, but I'll probably continue the DT series next, having read The Gunslinger).

[DelvianBlue]

I don't think there's any book I haven't at least tried, although there's some I didn't finish because I either became bored or didn't like it. I never did make it to the end of Salem's Lot, though I might try that one again, and I only read a part of Danse Macabre. I tried Gerald's Game, stopped part way through, picked it up again and read it to the end, and decided I didn't like it. But the ones I haven't read are more because I haven't had time yet than because I've chosen not to read them.

[JRLauer]

For a long time I avoided The Gunslinger. I was under the impression that it was a western and I hate westerns. Eventually I read everything else so I started the Gunslinger. Never judge a book by it's cover, I love the Gunslinger series.

[blunthead]

For a long time I avoided The Gunslinger. I was under the impression that it was a western and I hate westerns. Eventually I read everything else so I started the Gunslinger. Never judge a book by it's cover, I love the Gunslinger series.This is the lesson I'm learning with sK--that when I assume a book will be like this or like that, I'm always wrong and pleasantly surprised.

[mercop14]

I've always avoided Carrie. After I read all of his novels I might give it a try.

[boogerb53]

The one Sai King book that I've avoided is Faithful. I just am not a baseball fan and don't know that I could read a book devoted to the sport. I'm sure the day will come where I'll buy it and read it though.

That and the hard boiled detective novels. Not my style.

[Nelsonette]

I think I've read almost every thing written by King...except for his Richard Bachman books. I tried reading one of those when I was younger, and it just didn't capture me the same way his other stories did. For me, that's why I love King's writing...the stories and worlds just seem so very real, even if they're complete fiction. I can really get into them and connect with the setting and the characters, something that is rare for me with a lot of other writers. For some reason, The Bachman book I read (I think it was The Running man) didn't do that for me, so I've avoided reading them ever since.

Now that I'm a little older I'm considering going back and giving them a try. Maybe I'll see them differently now.

[skyrow]

You wanna know what I do? Since I have so many of his books I write them all down, put them in a hat, and leave it up to ka! lol! The one book I wanted to avoid though is Storm of The Century because it was a script. But as luck would have it that is what im reading now!:glare:It's pretty good so far though.

[blunthead]

I think I've read almost every thing written by King...except for his Richard Bachman books...Now that I'm a little older I'm considering going back and giving them a try. Maybe I'll see them differently now.I think you're right, that you'll be able to enjoy them now. The Long Walk is amazing. If you liked Desperation, then you should like The Regulators. I really liked Thinner, too.

[alxx11uml]

i have had in my posession for some time the entire DT series but i keep putting it off. i think it's because of the magnitude of it but i hear nothing but praise from many different people with different tastes. will have to pick it up soon.


on another note, could someone please list for me the Castle Rock books as well as the Derry books and any suggested reading order. Thanks

[moonhoney2]

I avoided the DT series for a long time. The title "Gunslinger" put me off. I thought, "Really? A gunslinger? Come on, really?! How scary could a western be?"


That was my thought too! LOL I read the first chapter, saw the drawings, and immediately put it back on the shelf. It wasn't until I had almost all of them (I was part of the book club), and ran out of other things to read, that I finally forged ahead.

Boy, am i ever glad I did!

[Queen Judia]

hi,

as for me, i always skip reading 'salem's lot--because im thinking i don't like vampires that much. but hey, im welcome for any insights that would really make me want to grab that book right now. thanks! :grinning:

[blunthead]

hi,

as for me, i always skip reading 'salem's lot--because im thinking i don't like vampires that much. but hey, im welcome for any insights that would really make me want to grab that book right now. thanks! :grinning:I have yet to read 'Salem's Lot and it's been for the same reason, but I'm finding, without fail, that my assumptions about sK's books, based on whatever bias I use, is wrong. Once I find a book I haven't read, and choose to ignore my assumptions, I'm never disappointed when I read it.

[michal]

I too avoided the DT series for quite a while, but at the end, after reading all the rest, was pushed against a corner and had to pick them up and yes, once I've gotten over the first three, I really enjoyed the rest.

But now I really read them all. Nothing left to avoid... :grinning:

[jules17330]

There isn't much of King that I haven't read but I admit I have put the DT series on the backburner for many, many years. Since I'm more or less out of King to read, I just recently started listening to The Gunslinger on audio and so far it's not bad. It's definitely some of his more elaborate writing styles I've ever seen in any of his books (wax on, wax on...) but I suppose it goes with the type of story he's telling. Otherwise, From a Buick 8 took some real time to get through. Ones I absolutely couldn't put down were Rose Madder, Bag of Bones, Tom Gordon, Green Mile (waiting for those serial books about killed me!) and a few others. Any of his older works I carry with me just in case a free moment arises where I can sneak in a paragraph or two.

[AmandaRose]

Quoting scratchesass ...

On Writing..... I'm saving that one for when I get old and constipated and I need good toilet material....


Quoting blunthead....
You know, saving an sK book for a special time is a truly legitimate, healthy reason not to read one. However, personally I don't find reading a particularly efficient laxative.


:rofl: omg thats hilarious you two. It just made me think of something, how when we were doing the Gingerbread Girl magazine around the world, and we had decided to take pictures with it for postcards, I was daring JohnD to take a pic of him sitting on the toilet with it, smiling, not like 'really' but just for appearances just for fun you know, and which, he declined the idea of course, lol, but could you imagine ? :laugh:

[michal]

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon for me. It hasn't received very good reviews from those who's opinion I respect here. Eventually, I'll read it. If for nothing else other than to know I've read everything SK has written.

Thanks for your post!

I absolutely loved The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon and it's pretty sad for me you haven't read it just because no one told you how good it was.

May be you should stop listening to reviews and try at all, just in case... :smile2:

[pagantallie]

My advice would be to feel those feelings of dread about a book and read it anyway - sK will surprise you with From a Buick 8 as its more supernatural than i thought - i thought it was going to be like christine and its not. Also, i avoided the ones where children get hurt for some time but after reading the bosy and it i realised sK has an extraordinary sense of childhood and is able to write as a child would think, do and act.
I have been on the mission to read all his works for some time and have read over 20 of his novels - i have to say the only one i felt disappointed with was Cell as I felt i was cheated at the end.

[bookworm101]

I haven't read On Writing cuz I don't intend on writing. I haven't read his non- fiction baseball book either.

[Matthew.Degnan]

I've been putting off Insomnia for a long time, could anyone give me a good reason why to read it?

[Breger3]

So far, the ones I've actively avoided are the DT series. It just never called to me. HOWEVER, last summer I read Black House and The Talisman. I loved them. So with the thought process that the story is along the same type, and now finding out that R.F is in it, I will take the plunge. Right now I'm Rererereading The Stand. I plan to read through all the books I own by SK starting now, with The Stand. So I will get to the DT series. My biggest downfall is I love Rereading the books I love. I will also have a hard time with Dreamcatcher. I read it once didn't really float my boat.

Crystal

[JohnDalglish]

I've been putting off Insomnia for a long time, could anyone give me a good reason why to read it?

Hi,

Yes, it's absolutely excellent IMO, especially if you've read DT.

Long days and pleasant nights

[Matticus]

I don't read SK, it reads me! :laugh:

I cannot imagine one of his books I would choose not to read on purpose.

[makutakyle]

i have avoided reading green mile and shawshank because they are less about horror and i prefer his horror:glare:

[Doc Wilson]

I chose not to read the girl who loved tom gordon because my girls were about the same age, I was traveling for work and missing them, and I couldn't bear to read a little-girl-in jeopardy-novel.

I could probably read it now, but I never see it stocked when i hit the bookstores.

[blunthead]

I chose not to read the girl who loved tom gordon because my girls were about the same age, I was traveling for work and missing them, and I couldn't bear to read a little-girl-in jeopardy-novel.

I could probably read it now, but I never see it stocked when i hit the bookstores.You should be able to find used copies at Half.com, eBay, and Amazon. Oh, and I really liked it! Excellent workmanship, and spooky!

[boogerb53]

I've been putting off Insomnia for a long time, could anyone give me a good reason why to read it?

Yes! It is a fabalus book! A great read! Just DO IT!!!!!!

[Bizzie]

I delayed reading 'Eyes Of The Dragon' for a looooong time, mostly because it seemed so far removed from SK's normal genre. I admit the fairytale, fantasy tags did put me off a bit :blush:

Glad I did read it eventually though, awesome journey I had reading it :biggrin2:

[blunthead]

My advice would be to feel those feelings of dread about a book and read it anyway...This is the best advice, no matter which book we assume we won't get into. I assumed, based on perceived subject matter, that I wouldn't care much for the DT series--wrong. I assumed, based on their titles, that I wouldn't like certain of the stories in Just After Sunset--wrong again.

I've learned my lesson. If it's written by sK, I'm virtually guaranteed to like it.

[blunthead]

I haven't read On Writing cuz I don't intend on writing. I haven't read his non- fiction baseball book either.I say read On Writing anyway, because you get to know sK himself some. It was like having lunch with him, only I was spared the embarrassment of saying those silly things. I learned a lot.

I haven't read Faithful (the baseball book) either, but intend to, because...well, see above.

[blunthead]

i have avoided reading green mile and shawshank because they are less about horror and i prefer his horror:glare:This is a good point, and one of the main reasons, I think, that we routinely avoid a given title: we assume we won't like it. But when I mentally review what I really enjoy about sK, I find the characters themselves, and how they must deal with what they must confront. These elements will be present in all of his books.

[blunthead]

Quoting scratchesass ...

On Writing..... I'm saving that one for when I get old and constipated and I need good toilet material....


Quoting blunthead....
You know, saving an sK book for a special time is a truly legitimate, healthy reason not to read one. However, personally I don't find reading a particularly efficient laxative.


:rofl: omg thats hilarious you two. It just made me think of something, how when we were doing the Gingerbread Girl magazine around the world, and we had decided to take pictures with it for postcards, I was daring JohnD to take a pic of him sitting on the toilet with it, smiling, not like 'really' but just for appearances just for fun you know, and which, he declined the idea of course, lol, but could you imagine ? :laugh:Thanx a lot for that visual!

[Haunted]

i have avoided reading green mile and shawshank because they are less about horror and i prefer his horror:glare:

What is horror? Both of these books contain horror. The worst kind of horror.

[pagantallie]

For me, I've always avoided Carrie and Misery.

In regards to Carrie, I'm kind of afraid it won't compare, style-wise, to some of King's other works. And I hear it's written in a strange way, like the story was taken from a news report. I've never been a big fan of novels that were written in this manner.

And as for Misery, the storyline, though creative, doesn't sound particularly interesting to me. I like King's supernatural novels much more, and I don't feel a strong pull towards this book.

I'm sure I'll get to these two in time, but they won't be for a while.

I think you'll like Misery more than Carrie,I'd definately would try to read them - Especially Misery I think you'll be pleasantly surprised - just try to avoid the films until you've read the books :biggrin2:

[JohnDalglish]

I haven't read Faithful (the baseball book) either, but intend to, because...well, see above.

Hi,

I honestly recommend Faithful.

Thankfully the editors have printed the sports bit (written by Stewart O'Nan) in normal type and Sai King's contributions in bold type, making it easy to skip passages, and if you enjoyed On Writing you'll find the glimpses of his day to day life over the year fascinating.

At least I did, and I know doodley-squat about baseball (other than to root for the Red Sox!).

Long days and pleasant nights