The Dark Half (by Stephen King)
The May selection for the Constant Readers Book Club is Stephen King’s “The Dark Half.” It’s a re-read for me, as I first read it in 2018. I had forgotten quite a bit about the story, so I thoroughly enjoyed revisiting it.
Thad Beaumont, a writer, used the pen name George Stark to conceal his inability to write in his own name. For twelve years, Stark served as an alter ego. Now, with life changes such as marriage and the birth of infant twins, Beaumont is ready to reveal the truth about Stark. A magazine journalist writes an article about Beaumont, and the symbolic death of Stark is staged for thematic purposes. However, Stark is not entirely on board with this decision.
The story is set in Castle Rock, Maine, where Sheriff Alan Pangborn investigates the gruesome murder of a local man on his way home from the bowling alley. Fingerprints matching Beaumont are found at the scene. Pangborn visits Beaumont, and unexpectedly, he finds himself entangled in the most unimaginable scenario.
The Dark Half, a captivating King novel, boasts incredibly likable characters and a unique perspective on the concept of author pen names. It seamlessly weaves together classic horror elements that King is renowned for, while also enduring the test of time. While reading it this time, I kept thinking about King’s alter ego, Richard Bachman. I would love to engage in a conversation with King to learn of the real-life similarities between the characters in The Dark Half and King and Bachman. I’m curious to learn what insight my fellow book clubbers have on this intriguing aspect of the novel.
It’s been a while since I last watched the movie. After our discussion at the library, the book club heads to a local wine bar where the owner plays the movie that corresponds to the book we had just read. I might have to stay out a bit later to watch the movie with my peers this month.
Feel free to explore my reviews of other Stephen King books below!
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