Stephen King is one of the most well-known and iconic authors of our time. He has produced countless bestsellers and has become a household name in the horror and suspense genre. But did you know that he is also an avid reader and recommends books to his fans?
In this article, we will explore the top books recommended by Stephen King himself. We will take a look at his favorite books and delve into the genres that have influenced him as a writer. Whether you are a die-hard Stephen King fan or just looking for a good book to read, this list is sure to spark your interest.
Key Takeaways:
- Stephen King is not only a prolific writer but also an enthusiastic reader.
- Discover the top books recommended by Stephen King, including his favorite reads in various genres.
- Explore the genres that have influenced Stephen King’s writing career, from classic horror novels to contemporary thrillers.
- Expand your literary horizons with Stephen King’s recommended non-fiction selections.
- Find inspiration for your own reading list from one of the greatest authors of our time.
Stephen King’s Early Influences
Stephen King is one of the most successful writers of our time, with over 60 published novels and countless short stories, novellas, and screenplays to his name. However, every writer has to start somewhere, and King’s success story began with the books he read throughout his youth.
As a child, King was an avid reader, consuming everything from comic books to classic literature. Some of his earliest influences included horror comics such as “Tales from the Crypt” and “The Vault of Horror.”
King also drew inspiration from the works of authors such as H.P. Lovecraft, Richard Matheson, and Edgar Allan Poe. According to King, Poe’s “The Pit and the Pendulum” was the first horror story he ever read, and it left a lasting impression on him.
Another significant influence on King’s writing was the 1958 science fiction novel “The War of the Worlds” by H.G. Wells. King has cited this book as one of the earliest sources of his fascination with the concept of an alien invasion and the potential for humanity’s downfall.
“I remember getting four hours sleep a night just to read everything I could get my hands on.”
King’s voracious reading habits continued into his teenage years, during which he discovered the works of William Golding, J.D. Salinger, and Jack Kerouac. These authors helped shape King’s approach to character development and storytelling, and their influence can still be seen in his work today.
The books that influenced Stephen King are diverse and wide-ranging, but they all have one thing in common: they sparked his passion for writing and helped shape his unique literary style. Without these early influences, the world of horror and suspense may never have experienced the incredible talent of Stephen King.
Classic Horror Novels
For lovers of horror, Stephen King’s recommendations for classic horror novels are a must-read. These are the books that have delivered scares for generations, and they continue to shape the genre today. From Dracula by Bram Stoker to Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, King’s favorites are essential reading for anyone seeking to explore the best horror books of all time.
Not only have these books stood the test of time, but they have also influenced King’s signature style. Fans of his works will find themselves transported to familiar yet terrifying worlds when they open the pages of these classic horror novels.
“There are books full of great writing that don’t have very good stories. Read sometimes for the story… don’t be like the book-snobs who won’t do that. Read sometimes for the words–the language. Don’t be like the play-it-safers who won’t do that. But when you find a book that has both a good story and good words, treasure that book.”
Explore King’s recommended classic horror novels to discover spine-chilling tales that are sure to make your skin crawl. And if you’re looking for a visual representation of the terror found in these books, look no further than the hauntingly beautiful cover of The Complete Stories of Edgar Allan Poe.
Contemporary Thrillers
If you’re searching for heart-pounding and suspenseful stories, Stephen King has got you covered with his recommended contemporary thrillers. These gripping page-turners will keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you craving for more. Join the ride and discover acclaimed novels by some of the most talented authors in the genre.
The Chain by Adrian McKinty is a heart-stopping thriller that pulls at your emotions and keeps you guessing until the explosive end. With a clever and original plot, it’s no surprise that Stephen King raves about this book.
Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn is a psychological thriller that explores the dysfunctional and twisted relationships between its characters. Its intricate and unpredictable plot twists will leave you gasping for air. Stephen King proclaims that it’s “a brilliant and scary masterpiece.”
“It is time to take the horror genre seriously, and Josh Malerman’s Bird Box is one of the best and most suspenseful novels to come out of the recent horror boom. Dani and I both agreed it was a real page-turner.” – Stephen King
With Bird Box, Josh Malerman delivers a gripping tale that leaves readers in suspense until the very end. Its ability to keep the horror at bay and let the reader’s imagination run wild is what makes it unique. It’s no surprise that Stephen King recommends it as a must-read.
From the action-packed The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson to the heart-racing The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides, Stephen King’s recommended contemporary thrillers will test your nerves and keep you on the edge of your seat.
Supernatural Fiction
If you’re looking to explore the eerie and otherworldly, Stephen King’s recommended supernatural fiction reads are a must. Get lost in stories of ghosts, witches, and other supernatural beings, where the line between reality and the macabre becomes blurred.
King’s recommendations include classics like Shirley Jackson’s “The Haunting of Hill House” and more recent works like Joe Hill’s “NOS4A2”. Whether you’re a fan of subtle chills or full-blown horror, these best supernatural books will keep you up at night.
Psychological Suspense
Looking for a gripping read that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further than Stephen King’s recommended psychological suspense novels, which showcase the best of the best when it comes to mind-bending twists and turns. These books are all about exploring the depths of the human psyche, unearthing complex and often disturbing narratives that will leave you questioning the boundaries between reality and fiction.
So what are some of King’s top picks in this genre? “Gone Girl” by Gillian Flynn is one standout, featuring a twisted and unreliable narrator that will keep you guessing until the very end. “Shutter Island” by Dennis Lehane is another must-read, following a U.S. Marshal as he investigates a mental institution on an isolated island off the coast of Massachusetts. And of course, no list of psychological thrillers would be complete without mentioning “The Girl on the Train” by Paula Hawkins, which is beloved by readers for its intricate plot and surprisingly sympathetic characters.
“The human mind is a labyrinthine puzzle, and these psychological suspense novels do an incredible job of showcasing just how complex and multi-faceted it can be. From unreliable narrators to deeply flawed protagonists, these books delve into the darkest corners of our psyches and emerge with some truly twisted and captivating stories.”
Dark Fantasy
Stephen King has recommended some of the best dark fantasy novels that will take you on a journey through enchanted and haunting worlds. These books have been picked by the king of horror himself and are sure to captivate your imagination.
“The Dark Tower” series by Stephen King – These books combine elements of multiple genres, including dark fantasy, westerns, and science fiction. Follow the Gunslinger as he pursues the elusive Man in Black on a quest that spans several worlds.
Other recommended dark fantasy reads include “Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell” by Susanna Clarke and “The Buried Giant” by Kazuo Ishiguro. These novels are perfect for those who love fantasy, but crave darker and more twisted tales.
Supernatural Horror
Supernatural horror is where Stephen King truly shines, and his recommendations will not disappoint. Get ready to face your fears and journey into the unknown with these bone-chilling tales of ghosts, demons, and other terrifying entities. King’s recommended supernatural horror books offer a unique blend of suspense, horror, and the paranormal that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
“The Haunting of Hill House” by Shirley Jackson is a masterpiece of terror that will leave you questioning what is real. The suspenseful and eerie atmosphere builds up to a shocking and terrifying conclusion.
“The Exorcist” by William Peter Blatty is a classic tale of demonic possession that will leave you breathless. The battle for a young girl’s soul is intense and unsettling, but the characters’ humanity and struggles add depth to the chilling narrative.
These are just a few of the spine-tingling recommendations from Stephen King for supernatural horror books. Dive into their pages and experience the thrill of fear that only the best supernatural horror novels can offer.
Non-Fiction Selections
Beyond fiction, Stephen King’s recommended non-fiction selections offer a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration. His choices range from true crime to historical accounts and biographies. These reads provide readers with an opportunity to expand their horizons, gain new perspectives, and find inspiration for their own lives.
One non-fiction book that King highly recommends is Truman Capote’s “In Cold Blood.” This chilling true crime account of a family’s brutal murder in Kansas is a masterclass in journalism and storytelling. King also recommends Laura Hillenbrand’s “Unbroken,” the intense and captivating story of an Olympic athlete’s journey through the struggles of World War II.
“Capote’s ‘In Cold Blood’ is a one-of-a-kind book. It’s the kind of read that inspires and terrifies you at the same time. Hillenbrand’s ‘Unbroken’ is a captivating read that teaches about resilience and surviving against all odds.”
King’s non-fiction recommendations are not just limited to true crime and war stories. He also recommends books on the craft of writing, such as “On Writing” by Stephen King himself, which provides insightful tips and advice for aspiring writers. Other non-fiction reads on King’s list include “The Boys in the Boat” by Daniel James Brown, a story about a crew of rowers from the University of Washington who competed on the world stage, and “1776” by David McCullough, a history of the events leading up to America’s independence.
Overall, Stephen King’s recommended list of non-fiction books showcases his diverse tastes and the broad range of subjects that can captivate and teach readers. By diving into his non-fiction recommendations, readers can expand their literary horizons and gain valuable insight into the world around them.
Stephen King’s Contemporary Favorites
Stephen King is known for his diverse tastes in literature, and his current reading list is no exception. The master of horror has been enjoying a range of books across different genres, including:
Surviving Autocracy by Masha Gessen
In this nonfiction book, Masha Gessen discusses the current political climate in America and the rise of autocracy. King has described it as “essential reading for anyone who cares about democracy.”
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Matt Haig’s novel tells the story of a woman who discovers a library that allows her to explore different paths her life could have taken. King has praised the book for its “intriguing premise” and “compelling characters.”
“A glorious novel that celebrates resilience, hope and the magic of reading.” – The Washington Post
Cloud Cuckoo Land by Anthony Doerr
This historical fiction book weaves together multiple narratives, spanning from Constantinople in the 15th century to present-day Idaho. King has described it as “ambitious and beautifully written.”
These are just a few of the books that Stephen King is currently enjoying. His eclectic tastes and ability to find inspiration in a range of genres are a testament to the power of reading and the importance of exploring different literary worlds.
Conclusion
Stephen King is a prolific author with a love of literature that has endured over many decades. His reading recommendations cover a wide range of genres, reflecting his diverse interests in storytelling. From classic horror novels to contemporary thrillers, dark fantasy, psychological suspense, and beyond, his list of favorite books is a testament not only to his literary taste but also to the versatility of his writing style.
By exploring the books Stephen King recommends, readers can gain insight into the influences that have shaped his prose, as well as discover their own new favorite reads. King’s passion for the written word continues to inspire and encourage readers, from seasoned bookworms to aspiring writers embarking on their own literary journeys. So why not take a page out of Stephen King’s book and dive into the captivating worlds of his recommended reads?
