Stephen King Books In Order Published

Navigating the labyrinthine world of Stephen King's bibliography can feel like embarking on a dark and thrilling adventure in itself. Now, with over 60 novels, numerous short story collections, and a host of non-fiction works, King has crafted a literary universe that continues to captivate and terrify readers worldwide. To truly appreciate the evolution of his craft and the recurring themes that haunt his stories, exploring his books in chronological order of publication is a worthwhile endeavor.

From the raw, visceral horror of his early works to the more nuanced character studies and explorations of morality that define his later novels, each book offers a unique glimpse into King's ever-expanding imagination. Whether you're a seasoned Constant Reader or a newcomer eager to dig into the master of horror's oeuvre, this chronological journey will provide a roadmap through the chilling landscapes and unforgettable characters that have cemented Stephen King's place as a literary icon.

The Stephen King Book List: A Chronological Odyssey

Here’s a comprehensive list of Stephen King's books in order of publication, taking you from his breakout debut to his most recent literary offerings:

1. Carrie (1974)

Carrie isn't just a horror novel; it's a poignant exploration of teenage angst, bullying, and the devastating consequences of unchecked cruelty. The story centers on Carrie White, an ostracized high school student with telekinetic powers. When she's pushed too far, Carrie unleashes her wrath in a horrifying climax. The novel's epistolary structure, incorporating newspaper clippings and excerpts from sociological studies, adds a chilling layer of realism. Carrie catapulted King to fame and remains a powerful and relevant commentary on societal issues.

2. 'Salem's Lot (1975)

With 'Salem's Lot, King reimagines the classic vampire story within the confines of a small, isolated town. Ben Mears, a writer returning to his childhood home, discovers that an ancient evil has taken root. As residents succumb to a mysterious illness, Ben realizes he's facing something far more sinister than he could have imagined. That said, 'Salem's Lot is a masterclass in building suspense and creating a palpable sense of dread. The novel showcases King's ability to blend supernatural horror with realistic characters and settings.

3. The Shining (1977)

The Shining is arguably one of King's most iconic and terrifying novels. It tells the story of Jack Torrance, an aspiring writer with a troubled past, who takes a job as the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel. As the hotel becomes snowbound, Jack's sanity unravels, and the hotel's dark history begins to exert its influence. The Shining is a psychological horror masterpiece that explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the corrupting nature of power.

4. The Stand (1978)

The Stand is an epic post-apocalyptic tale that pits good against evil in the aftermath of a deadly virus. When a government-engineered superflu escapes, it decimates the world's population. The survivors are drawn to either Mother Abagail, a prophetess of good, or Randall Flagg, a charismatic but malevolent figure. The Stand is a sprawling and ambitious novel that explores themes of faith, free will, and the struggle for survival in a world turned upside down.

5. The Dead Zone (1979)

The Dead Zone introduces Johnny Smith, a man who awakens from a coma with psychic abilities after a car accident. Johnny can see glimpses of the future, but these visions come at a cost. He must grapple with the burden of his gift and the moral dilemmas it presents. When Johnny foresees a catastrophic future led by a ruthless politician, he faces a difficult choice: intervene and potentially alter destiny or stand by and watch disaster unfold. The Dead Zone is a compelling thriller that raises profound questions about fate, responsibility, and the consequences of our actions.

6. Firestarter (1980)

Firestarter tells the story of Charlie McGee, a young girl with pyrokinesis, the ability to control fire with her mind. Charlie and her father, Andy, are on the run from a secret government agency known as "The Shop," who wants to exploit Charlie's powers for their own purposes. Firestarter is a suspenseful and action-packed novel that explores themes of government overreach, the ethics of scientific experimentation, and the bond between parent and child.

7. Cujo (1981)

Cujo is a terrifying tale of a once-docile St. Bernard who contracts rabies and becomes a bloodthirsty killer. The novel focuses on two families whose lives become intertwined as Cujo terrorizes the small town of Castle Rock. Cujo is a visceral and unrelenting horror novel that explores themes of fear, paranoia, and the fragility of life. The story's simplicity and claustrophobic setting contribute to its chilling effectiveness.

8. Creepshow (1982)

Creepshow is a graphic novel collaboration between Stephen King and artist Bernie Wrightson, based on the 1982 film of the same name. The graphic novel presents five gruesome tales of horror, each with a darkly comedic edge. Creepshow is a visually striking and entertaining anthology that pays homage to the classic horror comics of the 1950s.

9. Christine (1983)

Christine tells the story of Arnie Cunningham, a shy and awkward teenager who becomes obsessed with a vintage 1958 Plymouth Fury named Christine. As Arnie restores the car, he undergoes a transformation, becoming more confident but also more possessive and aggressive. Christine, however, is no ordinary car; she has a malevolent will of her own. Christine is a supernatural horror novel that explores themes of obsession, teenage alienation, and the destructive power of inanimate objects.

10. Pet Sematary (1983)

Pet Sematary is one of King's darkest and most disturbing novels. It tells the story of the Creed family, who move to a small town in Maine and discover a mysterious burial ground with the power to bring the dead back to life. Still, what returns is not always what was lost. Pet Sematary is a chilling exploration of grief, death, and the consequences of tampering with the natural order.

11. Cycle of the Werewolf (1983)

Cycle of the Werewolf is a novella told in twelve vignettes, one for each month of the year, that chronicles a series of werewolf killings in a small town. The story follows a young paraplegic boy who suspects the identity of the werewolf. Cycle of the Werewolf is a concise and suspenseful tale with striking illustrations by Bernie Wrightson.

12. The Talisman (1984) (with Peter Straub)

The Talisman, co-written with Peter Straub, is an epic fantasy novel that follows twelve-year-old Jack Sawyer on a quest to find a mystical talisman that can save his dying mother. Jack must travel between our world and a parallel world known as "The Territories," facing dangers and challenges in both realms. The Talisman is a sprawling and imaginative adventure that blends elements of fantasy, horror, and coming-of-age.

13. Thinner (1984) (as Richard Bachman)

Thinner, published under the pseudonym Richard Bachman, tells the story of Billy Halleck, an obese lawyer who is cursed by a Gypsy after accidentally running her over. Billy begins to lose weight rapidly, and as he becomes thinner and thinner, he realizes that the curse is more than just a physical affliction. Thinner is a dark and suspenseful thriller that explores themes of guilt, revenge, and the consequences of prejudice.

14. It (1986)

It is a sprawling and ambitious epic that tells the story of seven children who are terrorized by a shapeshifting entity that preys on their fears. The children, known as the "Losers' Club," confront It in their childhood and then reunite as adults to face It again. It is a complex and multi-layered novel that explores themes of childhood trauma, memory, and the power of friendship. The novel's exploration of the dark underbelly of small-town America is particularly chilling.

15. Misery (1987)

Misery is a terrifying psychological thriller that tells the story of Paul Sheldon, a famous author who is held captive by Annie Wilkes, his self-proclaimed "number one fan." Annie, a former nurse, nurses Paul back to health after a car accident, but she soon reveals her obsessive and unstable nature. Misery is a claustrophobic and suspenseful novel that explores themes of obsession, creativity, and the dark side of fandom.

16. The Tommyknockers (1987)

The Tommyknockers tells the story of Bobbi Anderson, a writer who discovers a strange object buried in the woods near her home in Haven, Maine. As Bobbi excavates the object, the residents of Haven begin to undergo bizarre transformations, becoming more intelligent but also more callous and detached. The Tommyknockers is a science fiction horror novel that explores themes of technological advancement, societal decay, and the dangers of unchecked curiosity.

17. The Dark Half (1989)

The Dark Half tells the story of Thad Beaumont, an author who wrote violent novels under the pseudonym George Stark. When Thad decides to "kill" George Stark, the fictional character comes to life and embarks on a murderous rampage. The Dark Half is a psychological thriller that explores themes of identity, creativity, and the dark side of the human psyche.

18. The Stand: The Complete & Uncut Edition (1990)

This is an expanded version of the original 1978 novel, The Stand, restoring previously cut material and providing a more complete and detailed version of the epic story.

19. Four Past Midnight (1990)

Four Past Midnight is a collection of four novellas: "The Langoliers," "Secret Window, Secret Garden," "The Library Policeman," and "The Sun Dog." Each novella explores different themes of horror and suspense, showcasing King's versatility as a storyteller.

20. Needful Things (1991)

Needful Things tells the story of a new shop that opens in the town of Castle Rock, Maine, run by the enigmatic Leland Gaunt. Gaunt sells people their heart's desire, but each item comes with a hidden price. As the residents of Castle Rock become increasingly obsessed with their purchases, the town descends into chaos and violence. Needful Things is a satirical horror novel that explores themes of greed, consumerism, and the dark side of human nature.

21. Gerald's Game (1992)

Gerald's Game tells the story of Jessie Burlingame, a woman who is handcuffed to a bed in a remote cabin after her husband dies unexpectedly during a sexual game. As Jessie struggles to free herself, she confronts her past traumas and battles her inner demons. Gerald's Game is a psychological thriller that explores themes of abuse, trauma, and female empowerment.

22. Dolores Claiborne (1992)

Dolores Claiborne is a psychological thriller told from the perspective of Dolores Claiborne, an elderly woman accused of murdering her wealthy employer. Dolores recounts her life story, revealing the dark secrets and tragedies that have shaped her. Dolores Claiborne is a character-driven novel that explores themes of family, abuse, and female resilience.

23. Insomnia (1994)

Insomnia tells the story of Ralph Roberts, a retired widower who begins to experience insomnia. As his sleep deprivation worsens, Ralph starts to see strange auras and beings that others cannot perceive. He becomes embroiled in a cosmic battle between good and evil. Insomnia is a fantasy horror novel that explores themes of aging, perception, and the nature of reality. It also has connections to King's Dark Tower series.

24. Rose Madder (1995)

Rose Madder tells the story of Rosie Daniels, a woman who flees her abusive husband and starts a new life in a different city. Rosie finds solace in a mysterious painting that seems to have a life of its own. As Rosie rebuilds her life, her past catches up to her in terrifying ways. Rose Madder is a psychological thriller that explores themes of abuse, female empowerment, and the power of art.

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25. Desperation (1996)

Desperation tells the story of a group of strangers who are inexplicably drawn to the small town of Desperation, Nevada. They are confronted by a possessed police officer who subjects them to brutal torture and forces them to confront their deepest fears. Desperation is a horror novel that explores themes of faith, good versus evil, and the nature of God.

26. The Green Mile (1996)

The Green Mile is a serialized novel that tells the story of Paul Edgecombe, a death row prison guard who encounters John Coffey, a giant black man with supernatural healing abilities. As Paul witnesses Coffey's miracles, he begins to question Coffey's guilt and the morality of capital punishment. The Green Mile is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of justice, mercy, and the power of the human spirit.

27. Bag of Bones (1998)

Bag of Bones tells the story of Mike Noonan, a writer who is haunted by the ghost of his deceased wife. Mike returns to their summer home in Maine, where he becomes entangled in a custody battle and uncovers a dark secret about the town's past. Bag of Bones is a supernatural horror novel that explores themes of grief, loss, and the power of memory.

28. The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon (1999)

The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon tells the story of Trisha McFarland, a nine-year-old girl who gets lost in the woods while hiking with her mother and brother. As Trisha struggles to survive, she relies on her imagination and her obsession with baseball player Tom Gordon to keep her going. The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon is a suspenseful and survivalist tale that explores themes of fear, isolation, and the power of the human spirit.

29. Dreamcatcher (2001)

Dreamcatcher tells the story of four childhood friends who reunite for their annual hunting trip in Maine. They encounter a strange and deadly alien invasion. As they fight to survive, they discover that they have been granted special abilities. Dreamcatcher is a science fiction horror novel that explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the battle against evil.

30. Black House (2001) (with Peter Straub)

Black House, co-written with Peter Straub, is a sequel to their earlier novel, The Talisman. Jack Sawyer, now a retired Los Angeles homicide detective, is called upon to investigate a series of gruesome murders in a small town in Wisconsin. The investigation leads him back to the world of "The Territories" and a confrontation with a powerful evil.

31. From a Buick 8 (2002)

From a Buick 8 tells the story of a mysterious Buick Roadmaster that is found abandoned at a gas station in Pennsylvania. The car is not quite what it seems, and it emits strange and disturbing phenomena. From a Buick 8 is a science fiction horror novel that explores themes of the unknown, the nature of evil, and the limitations of human understanding.

32. The Colorado Kid (2005)

The Colorado Kid is a mystery novel that tells the story of an unsolved murder on a small island off the coast of Maine. Two aging newspaper editors recount the details of the case to a young intern, challenging him to solve the seemingly impossible puzzle. The Colorado Kid is a departure from King's typical horror fare, focusing instead on the intricacies of storytelling and the enduring power of mystery.

33. Cell (2006)

Cell tells the story of Clay Riddell, an artist who is caught in the midst of a global catastrophe when a mysterious pulse transmitted through cell phones turns people into mindless, violent creatures. Clay must handle the apocalyptic landscape. Cell is a post-apocalyptic horror novel that explores themes of technology, societal collapse, and the importance of human connection.

34. Lisey's Story (2006)

Lisey's Story tells the story of Lisey Landon, the widow of a famous author, who is forced to confront her husband's dark past and the secrets he kept hidden. Lisey must venture into a dangerous and surreal world to protect herself and her husband's legacy. Lisey's Story is a psychological horror novel that explores themes of grief, memory, and the power of love.

35. Duma Key (2008)

Duma Key tells the story of Edgar Freemantle, a man who loses his arm and his memory in an accident. He moves to a remote island in Florida to recover. Edgar discovers a hidden talent for painting. He also uncovers a dark and supernatural force at work on the island. Duma Key is a supernatural horror novel that explores themes of creativity, healing, and the battle against evil.

36. Under the Dome (2009)

Under the Dome tells the story of a small town in Maine that is suddenly and inexplicably cut off from the rest of the world by an invisible, impenetrable dome. As the town struggles to cope with the isolation and dwindling resources, tensions rise and dark secrets are revealed. Under the Dome is a science fiction thriller that explores themes of societal breakdown, power, and the human capacity for both good and evil.

37. 11/22/63 (2011)

11/22/63 tells the story of Jake Epping, an English teacher who travels back in time to try to prevent the assassination of John F. Kennedy. Jake must work through the complexities of the past and face the potential consequences of altering history. 11/22/63 is a historical science fiction novel that explores themes of fate, choice, and the allure of the past.

38. Joyland (2013)

Joyland tells the story of Devin Jones, a college student who takes a summer job at a small amusement park in North Carolina. Devin becomes immersed in the park's world. He investigates a cold case involving a murdered girl. Joyland is a coming-of-age mystery novel that explores themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.

39. Mr. Mercedes (2014)

Mr. Mercedes tells the story of Bill Hodges, a retired detective who is haunted by an unsolved case involving a Mercedes that plowed into a crowd of people. Hodges is drawn back into the investigation when the perpetrator taunts him with anonymous messages. Mr. Mercedes is a crime thriller that explores themes of obsession, revenge, and the battle against evil. This is the first book in the Bill Hodges Trilogy.

40. Revival (2014)

Revival tells the story of Jamie Morton, a man whose life is intertwined with that of Charles Jacobs, a charismatic minister who loses his faith after a personal tragedy. Jacobs becomes obsessed with electricity and the possibility of using it to revive the dead. Revival is a horror novel that explores themes of faith, science, and the dangers of tampering with the natural order.

41. Finders Keepers (2015)

Finders Keepers is the second book in the Bill Hodges Trilogy. It tells the story of Pete Saubers, a young boy who discovers a treasure trove of unpublished novels by a reclusive author. Pete's discovery attracts the attention of a dangerous obsessive fan who is willing to do anything to get his hands on the manuscripts.

42. End of Watch (2016)

End of Watch is the third and final book in the Bill Hodges Trilogy. Brady Hartsfield, the "Mr. Mercedes" killer, is seemingly incapacitated in a vegetative state. Hodges suspects that Brady is still capable of causing harm using his mind. End of Watch is a crime thriller with supernatural elements that explores themes of good versus evil and the power of the human mind.

43. The Outsider (2018)

The Outsider tells the story of Terry Maitland, a beloved baseball coach who is accused of the brutal murder of a young boy. Despite overwhelming evidence, Terry maintains his innocence. Detective Ralph Anderson investigates the case, uncovering a disturbing and supernatural conspiracy. The Outsider is a crime thriller with supernatural elements that explores themes of truth, justice, and the nature of evil.

44. Elevation (2018)

Elevation tells the story of Scott Carey, a man who is mysteriously losing weight but not getting thinner. As Scott's condition worsens, he comes to terms with his mortality and seeks to make amends with his neighbors. Elevation is a novella that explores themes of community, acceptance, and the importance of living life to the fullest.

45. The Institute (2019)

The Institute tells the story of Luke Ellis, a brilliant young boy who is kidnapped and taken to a secret facility where children with special abilities are subjected to cruel experiments. Luke must find a way to escape and expose the institute's evil activities. The Institute is a science fiction thriller that explores themes of government overreach, the ethics of scientific experimentation, and the resilience of the human spirit.

46. Later (2021)

Later tells the story of Jamie Conklin, a young boy who has the ability to see and communicate with the dead. Jamie's life is complicated when he is drawn into a police investigation involving a deceased serial killer. Later is a crime thriller with supernatural elements that explores themes of childhood, loss, and the burden of secrets.

47. Billy Summers (2021)

Billy Summers tells the story of a skilled hitman who takes on one last job before retiring. Billy poses as a writer in a small town. He awaits his target. As Billy becomes immersed in the town and its people, he begins to question his past choices. Billy Summers is a crime novel that explores themes of morality, redemption, and the search for meaning.

48. Fairy Tale (2022)

Fairy Tale tells the story of Charlie Reade, a seventeen-year-old boy who inherits a key to a hidden world where good and evil are at war. Charlie must venture into this fantastical realm to save his friends and confront a powerful darkness. Fairy Tale is a fantasy novel that explores themes of courage, sacrifice, and the power of imagination.

49. Holly (2023)

Holly brings back Holly Gibney, a fan-favorite character from the Bill Hodges Trilogy and The Outsider. Holly investigates a series of disappearances in a small town. She uncovers a sinister plot involving a pair of seemingly ordinary academics. Holly is a crime thriller with horror elements that explores themes of obsession, evil, and the resilience of the human spirit.

The Enduring Appeal of Stephen King

Stephen King's enduring popularity stems from his ability to tap into our deepest fears and anxieties. That said, his relatable characters, realistic settings, and masterful storytelling create a deeply immersive and often terrifying reading experience. He explores universal themes of good versus evil, love, loss, and the human condition. Whether you're drawn to his classic horror novels or his more recent forays into crime and fantasy, there's a Stephen King book out there for every reader.

Now that you have a comprehensive list of Stephen King's books in order of publication, which one will you pick up first? Which means whatever your choice, prepare to be captivated by the master of horror's unparalleled storytelling prowess. Perhaps revisiting an old favorite is in order, or maybe you're ready to dive into a novel you've never experienced before. Happy reading, Constant Reader!