Stephen King ​

Stephen Edwin King is an American author of horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, crime, science-fiction, and fantasy novels. His books have sold more than 350 million copies, and many have been adapted into films, television series, miniseries, and comic books. King has published 62 novels, including seven under the pen name Richard Bachman, and five non-fiction books.

Quick Facts ​

• His books have sold more than 350 million copies.
• Many of his works have been adapted into films, miniseries, television series, and comic books.
• Has published 61 novels, including seven under the pen name Richard Bachman, and six non-fiction books.
• Received Bram Stoker Awards, World Fantasy Awards, and British Fantasy Society Awards.
• His novella The Way Station was a Nebula Award novelette nominee.
• His book On Writing, a memoir of the craft, has been used in colleges as a textbook in writing courses.

Background ​

King was born in 1947 in Portland, Maine and was raised in a well-to-do family. At an early age, he knew he wanted to be a writer and went on to become a world-renowned author. He was educated at the University of Maine, where he graduated in 1970 with a Bachelor's of Science degree in English. After completing his education, he took a job as an English teacher at Hampden Academy in Maine. In parallel to teaching, he started publishing his stories in men's magazines. He gained fame in 1973 when his novel Carrie was published, leading to the end of his teaching career. His works have been adapted into successful films, and he is known for his prolific output of work, which includes over 60 novels and over 200 short stories. King is considered one of the greatest horror writers of all time.

Writing Style and Impact ​

King is famous for his distinctive writing style that combines aspects of horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, and fantasy. Known for his intricate character developments and vivid descriptions, he allows readers to fully immerse themselves in the story. His writing tends to explore themes of fear, isolation, and the depth of human evil, often blurring the lines between the mundane and the horrific. King’s impact is significant, transforming horror literature, and his work has become synonymous with the genre.

Notable Works ​

• Carrie (1974)
• The Shining (1977)
• The Stand (1978)
• Pet Sematary (1983)
• IT (1986)
• Misery (1987)
• The Dark Tower series (1982-2004)
• Under the Dome (2009)