Just starting to read The Stand...

[hansel4150]

Im just about to read The Stand. What should I expect? ALSO: which of these three should I consume after... The Tommyknockers, DreamCatcher, or Insomnia (don't say ALL OF THEM[i want a real answer]thanks!)

[JohnDalglish]

Hi,

You should expect what is IMO the greatest novel of the 20th century, a real rollercoaster of a book that'll make you laugh and cry, and touch you in places you didn't even know you had.

The other three all have things to be said in their favour but since you want a definite answer I'd go with Insomnia, but......

Long days and pleasant nights

[Katran]

Books don't usually scare me. I think it's too easy for me to pull myself out of a book. But The Stand scared me. To this day (many years after first reading it), I still can't drive through a tunnel without thinking of a certain scene (which I will not spoil for you).

I think as soon as school's over I'm going to read it again. I just don't have time right now. Too much other reading to do (darn you Darwin!).

[JRLauer]

The Stand the first Sai King book I ever read, and it ended up being one of the best books I ever read. As far as the other three, I agree with John, go with Insomnia.

[bopropadop]

AWJS, exactly. The Stand remains my favorite King novel 30 years after I first picked it up and countless re-reads later. It is his richest novel in terms of character development, converging plot lines, and an examination of human nature. All IMHO.

I'd also go with Insomnia after. Some who haven't read DT find it a bit difficult, but it's still a great story. Anytime we can visit Derry as a Constant Reader, it's a good thing. And Insomnia has a bit more of the true Derry flavor than Dreamcatcher.

Enjoy The Stand and let us know your thoughts when you're done!

[Roseasharn]

Expect nothing! Just roll with it.
I love this one.
I suggest Insomnia.

[aptpupil]

Have to agree with John, although I might tone down the hyperbole slightly...

But "The Stand" is probably the greatest "epic" in the modern horror genre.

I'd personally edge for "The Tommyknockers" next. "Insomnia" is good, but I've known a few fans who found it a little difficult to get into. But eventually you'll read 'em all anyway.

Enjoy!

[Ben E Gas]

It took me about 200 pages to get into it. I think the reason is because I saw the tv mini series. I'm not finished with the book yet, but I am loving the book now. It had me looking over my shoulder at some points while reading late at night. It got me thinking of what it might be like if society broke down. Not a pretty picture. I cringed at some things, laughed at others. The good thing is I forget how the miniseries ended.

[Crimson Door]

You should expect Something most marvellous, The Stand will be better than you expect it to be even if you already have high expectations for it.

[Tooley]

You should expect total awesomeness!

Go with Dreamcatcher.