The Shining is definitely one of, if not the most, prominent novels by Stephen King. It is probably the title that comes to mind of anyone who hears the author's name, be it because of the famous movie adaptation directed by Stanley Kubrick (which has gained a cult following, despite King himself not being particularly fond of it) or the book itself. Nevertheless, I have to confess, despite being a dedicated King fan for years, I have not read this novel before. I finally ordered it at the beginning of this year, but only got around reading it recently. Better late than never, I suppose!
Jack Torrance is battling many issues - marital and drinking problems, as well as seeming disappearance of writing talent and losing his job. A golden opportunity appears - a caretaker position at the secluded Overlook hotel during the winter. Despite his wife's worries, he accepts the offer and soon they arrive at the hotel, ready for a month of seclusion. Things seem to be improving at first, but the evil lurking in the hotel will not stop at anything to get Jack's son, Danny into its claws.
The Shining doesn't offer a wide range of characters, but this allows us to get to know them better. Jack, Wendy and even Danny are all complex, and King masterfully, but gradually, shows us their inner workings. What I like most about these characters, is that none of them, not even Danny, is 'perfect'. They all have flaws, that show in their actions - be it Jack's violent tendencies, Wendy's possessiveness over Danny, or Danny's morbid curiosity. It is also evident that King was keen on fleshing out the inner conflicts of the two adults. Throughout the book, we witness Jack's inner conflict - he's being teared apart by his urge to drink and want to stop, to be a better man for his family, but most importantly his son. Wendy's inner conflict is a bit different - jealousy over the good relationship Jack has with their son is so overwhelming, it terrifies her. The reason why is simple: she's painfully aware it is a behaviour mirroring her own mother. Wendy's deep hatred for her doesn't exactly help.
As for Danny himself, it's easy to resonate with his thoughts, worries and goals, as they are that of a child. Setting all that aside, I'm impressed with how well King has written from a point of view of a little boy. There are planned misspellings and simpler language, void of any technical vocabulary that would clearly be out of reach a a young child, which makes the chapters from Danny's point of view more compelling - as it is a more innocent, simpler view.
I enjoyed the way King has worked Jack and Wendy's relationship into the novel as well - its few ups and many downs complement their inner conflicts, resulting in frustrations that built up until the climax of the novel. Danny's visibly stronger feelings for his father, as mentioned before, annoy his mother, who seems to take enjoyment every time Jack looses his temper - as if hoping Danny will finally see him for what he truly is.
There isn't much to be said about the pace of the action in The Shining, as it's one of King's signature writing devices. As the master of suspense, he slowly introduces the characters, develops them until the climax, all the while giving peeks behind the curtain in the house of horrors, to finally fully unveil the monsters awaiting the characters. I must say, it isn't a very relaxing read - it keeps you on the edge of your seat! I do have some issues with the ending, but this should be a non - spoiler review after all.
I am aware there are many editions of this now classic novel, but I must say I like the cover of my copy quite a lot. It perfectly embodies the atmosphere of The Shining - with all the lurking horrors.
The Shining sets you up with high expectations, considering the cult surrounding the novel and its adaptation, and it doesn't disappoint. Excellently written characters, complicated relationships and the signature suspense keep the reader entertained and on the edge of their seat. Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to start their adventure with the horror genre with a true classic - but bear in mind it's not a very relaxing read!
Rating: 9/10
As for Danny himself, it's easy to resonate with his thoughts, worries and goals, as they are that of a child. Setting all that aside, I'm impressed with how well King has written from a point of view of a little boy. There are planned misspellings and simpler language, void of any technical vocabulary that would clearly be out of reach a a young child, which makes the chapters from Danny's point of view more compelling - as it is a more innocent, simpler view.
I enjoyed the way King has worked Jack and Wendy's relationship into the novel as well - its few ups and many downs complement their inner conflicts, resulting in frustrations that built up until the climax of the novel. Danny's visibly stronger feelings for his father, as mentioned before, annoy his mother, who seems to take enjoyment every time Jack looses his temper - as if hoping Danny will finally see him for what he truly is.
There isn't much to be said about the pace of the action in The Shining, as it's one of King's signature writing devices. As the master of suspense, he slowly introduces the characters, develops them until the climax, all the while giving peeks behind the curtain in the house of horrors, to finally fully unveil the monsters awaiting the characters. I must say, it isn't a very relaxing read - it keeps you on the edge of your seat! I do have some issues with the ending, but this should be a non - spoiler review after all.
I am aware there are many editions of this now classic novel, but I must say I like the cover of my copy quite a lot. It perfectly embodies the atmosphere of The Shining - with all the lurking horrors.
The Shining sets you up with high expectations, considering the cult surrounding the novel and its adaptation, and it doesn't disappoint. Excellently written characters, complicated relationships and the signature suspense keep the reader entertained and on the edge of their seat. Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to start their adventure with the horror genre with a true classic - but bear in mind it's not a very relaxing read!
Rating: 9/10
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