If you’re a fan of horror and suspense, then Stephen King’s short story collections are a must-read. With his incredible talent for storytelling, King has penned some of the most iconic and chilling tales of the last few decades.
In this section, we’ll introduce you to the best short story collection Stephen King has to offer, each one full of eerie narratives that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re new to Stephen King or a seasoned fan, these collections are sure to leave you wanting more.
But with so many collections to choose from, where should you start? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular Stephen King short story collections, starting with the haunting tales in Night Shift.
Night Shift
Night Shift is a captivating short story collection written by Stephen King. It consists of 20 stories that are terrifying, gripping, and expertly crafted. The book was first published in 1978 and has since become one of King’s most popular works.
The stories in Night Shift cover a wide range of themes, from the supernatural to the psychological, and are sure to keep readers on the edge of their seats. Some of the most memorable tales include “The Boogeyman”, “Sometimes They Come Back”, and “The Mangler”.
What makes Night Shift stand out as one of the best short story collections by Stephen King is the author’s masterful storytelling, vivid characters, and relentless scares. Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan or just looking for a good fright, Night Shift will not disappoint.
Skeleton Crew
Skeleton Crew is one of Stephen King’s most popular short story collections and is a fan favorite for good reason. This anthology of chilling tales features a diverse range of characters and settings, from a haunted ship to a remote island and everything in between. With heart-pounding thrills and spine-tingling suspense, this book is a must-read for horror fans.
One of the standout stories in Skeleton Crew is “The Mist,” a novella about a group of survivors trapped in a supermarket after a mysterious mist engulfs their town. The story explores the themes of paranoia and desperation while also delivering plenty of scares.
Another memorable tale in the collection is “The Raft,” which takes place on a secluded lake and follows a group of college students as they swim out to an unusual raft. As night falls, they begin to realize that they are not alone on the lake, and the consequences are deadly.
Overall, Skeleton Crew is a well-crafted and terrifying collection of stories that showcase Stephen King’s talent for weaving together intricate plots and memorable characters. With its unforgettable narratives and haunting imagery, this book is a must-have for any horror fan.
Different Seasons
Different Seasons is a unique short story collection that showcases Stephen King’s broad range of storytelling. The collection features four novellas, “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption,” “Apt Pupil,” “The Body,” and “The Breathing Method,” each exploring different themes. “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption” is a gripping tale of hope and perseverance in the face of adversity, while “Apt Pupil” delves into the dark depths of human nature. “The Body” is a coming-of-age drama that captures the essence of childhood and friendship, whereas “The Breathing Method” is a haunting story of motherhood and sacrifice.
Overall, Different Seasons is a must-read for any Stephen King fan. Each novella is a masterclass in storytelling, with memorable characters and themes that will stay with readers long after they have turned the last page.
Full Dark, No Stars
Full Dark, No Stars is a gripping and disturbing collection of short stories that showcase Stephen King’s darker, more psychological side. The anthology features four unsettling tales that delve deep into the human psyche, exposing the horrors that can emerge from the darkness within.
The Stories
Upon opening Full Dark, No Stars, readers are presented with four tales that will leave them on the edge of their seats:
- 1922: A farmer confesses to his son the horrific details of how he killed his wife. As his confession unfolds, readers are taken on a journey that explores the psychological toll of guilt and the lengths people will go to in order to protect their way of life.
- Big Driver: A mystery author is brutally assaulted after speaking at a book event. Left for dead, she embarks on a quest for revenge that takes her to the edge of sanity.
- Fair Extension: A man makes a deal with the devil to extend his life and rid himself of his terminal illness. However, as his days are extended, he begins to realize the true cost of his deal.
- A Good Marriage: A wife discovers her husband’s sinister secret, leading her to question the very foundation of their marriage. As the truth is revealed, readers are forced to confront the chilling reality of the monsters that may live among us.
These stories are not for the faint of heart, as they explore the darkest corners of the human experience with a depth and intensity that few authors can match. Full Dark, No Stars is a must-read for fans of Stephen King’s horror, thriller, and psychological works.
Just After Sunset
Just After Sunset is one of Stephen King’s most eclectic short story collections, featuring 13 dark and twisted tales that explore the supernatural and the psychological. Each narrative is unique and thought-provoking, showcasing King’s talent for crafting vivid characters and immersive plots.
One of the standout stories in the collection is “N.”, which centers around a psychiatrist’s treatment of a patient with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder. The story quickly takes a turn towards the supernatural as the patient reveals a dark force that is consuming him. Another notable story is “The Cat From Hell,” which tells the tale of a hitman hired to kill a vicious feline with a deadly reputation.
The stories in Just After Sunset are engaging and immersive, drawing the reader into a world of darkness and unease. With its varied themes and well-crafted prose, this collection is a must-read for any Stephen King fan or anyone looking for an enthralling read.
The Bazaar of Bad Dreams
The Bazaar of Bad Dreams is Stephen King’s latest compilation of short stories that showcases his mastery of the horror genre. The collection features 20 gripping tales that range from disturbing and unsettling to poignant and thought-provoking. With vivid characters and evocative prose, King offers readers a glimpse into the dark corners of the human psyche.
One of the standout stories in this collection is “Ur,” which tells the tale of a man who purchases an e-reader that allows him to access books from alternate realities. In “Obits,” King explores the consequences of a journalist’s ability to write obituaries that predict the death of the subject. Another noteworthy story is “Mile 81,” which features a mysterious car that lures unsuspecting travelers to their doom.
Overall, The Bazaar of Bad Dreams is yet another testament to Stephen King’s ability to captivate and terrify readers with his storytelling. It is a must-read for fans of his work and for those seeking a thrilling and unforgettable reading experience.
Best of Stephen King Short Story Collections
If you’re looking to dive into the macabre world of Stephen King’s short stories, there are a few collections that stand out as the best of the best. Night Shift, Skeleton Crew, Different Seasons, Full Dark, No Stars, Just After Sunset, and The Bazaar of Bad Dreams all offer unique and haunting tales that showcase King’s talent as a master storyteller.
Night Shift is a must-read that features classic stories such as “Children of the Corn” and “The Lawnmower Man.” Skeleton Crew includes the iconic “The Mist” and “The Monkey.” Different Seasons features four novellas that explore themes such as hope and redemption, including “Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption” which was adapted into the beloved film, The Shawshank Redemption.
Full Dark, No Stars takes a darker turn with unsettling stories that explore the depths of human nature. Just After Sunset offers a range of narratives that range from the supernatural to the psychological. The Bazaar of Bad Dreams is a more recent collection that features King’s most recent short stories, including “UR” which was originally published exclusively for the Kindle.
Whether you’re a die-hard Stephen King fan or a newcomer to his work, these collections are a great place to start. Each one offers a unique experience and showcases King’s undeniable talent for crafting unforgettable stories that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.
So, if you’re looking for the best of Stephen King’s short story collections, look no further than these haunting and unforgettable works.
