49 pages 1 hour read

Stephen King

Carrie

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1974

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Carrie by Stephen King follows Carrie White, a 16-year-old girl with telekinetic powers, who is bullied by her peers and abused by her mother. After a traumatic incident at prom, she uses her powers to exact revenge on her tormentors. The novel is narrated through a mix of epistolary excerpts and third-person limited omniscient perspectives, depicting the events that lead to the catastrophic climax. The story contains graphic depictions of violence, abuse, and bullying.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Stephen King's Carrie is widely hailed for its gripping portrayal of adolescence and supernatural horror. Critics praise its suspenseful narrative and deep character development, particularly of the titular character. While some find the writing occasionally melodramatic and the pacing uneven, overall, it is regarded as a powerful and chilling debut.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Carrie?

Readers who relish psychological horror, teenage angst, and supernatural elements will find Carrie by Stephen King riveting. Fans of works like The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson or Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews will connect with its intense, emotional narrative and the complexities of growing up in a hostile environment.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Lexile Level

850L

Book Details

Genre

Horror / Thriller / Suspense Fiction

Gothic Literature

Fantasy

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Revenge

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Life/Time: Coming of Age

Topics

Religion / Spirituality