Stephen King, a prolific author with over 60 novels and countless short stories under his belt, was once asked a seemingly impossible question: if he had to save just three of his works from a fire, which ones would he choose? Surprisingly, King didn’t pause; he selected “Lisey’s Story,” “The Stand,” and “Misery.” This choice raised eyebrows among fans, mainly because the three novels are vastly different in tone and theme.
“Lisey’s Story” is a poignant reflection on love and loss, centered on a widow navigating her memories of her late husband. It’s an often-overlooked work that didn’t make it onto many ‘best of’ lists. In stark contrast, “The Stand” is a sweeping saga about a catastrophic pandemic that escalates into a monumental battle between good and evil. Meanwhile, “Misery” tells the chilling tale of an author held captive by an unhinged superfan.
What is it about these three books that resonated with King? While he didn’t elaborate during a 2019 interview, insights from his other discussions shed light on his preferences. When it comes to “Misery,” King’s affinity is evident. The story chronicles a writer’s desperate plight when faced with a fan who transforms into a nightmare. King has expressed how this resonates particularly with artists; the line between adoration and obsession can be perilously thin. His own experiences inform this narrative; he once recalled a troubling encounter with an overzealous fan who yelled at him after missing an autograph opportunity.
The inspirations behind “Misery” run deep, intertwining with personal struggles, including King’s journey through addiction and the backlash he faced for his early work, “The Eyes of the Dragon.” This novel stands out as it combines elements of a writer’s frustrations with both artistic integrity and the perilous nature of fame, making it a deeply affecting read.
Then there’s “Lisey’s Story,” which holds a special place in King’s heart, as it draws heavily from his relationship with his wife, Tabitha. She has been his sounding board and muse, supporting him through thick and thin. King’s near-fatal bout with double pneumonia sparked the inspiration for this novel, where he imagined how his wife would cope without him. What makes “Lisey’s Story” unique is its focus on the complexities of marital intimacy through the lens of a writer’s life, offering readers a glimpse into a realm that feels remarkably personal.
And finally, “The Stand,” an ambitious piece exceeding a thousand pages, presents a chilling vision of society unraveling due to a deadly illness. This narrative not only features a host of richly developed characters but has also experienced a renaissance of relevance because of the COVID-19 pandemic. King faced a unique challenge with this novel; the original version was cut down significantly by his editor, a decision he later revisited when he expanded it in the 1990s. While King has stated it’s not his favorite, he recognizes its immense appeal among fans, highlighting its enduring status within his oeuvre.
So, what about these novels merits a read? Without a doubt, they each offer something special—be it the thought-provoking struggles in “Misery,” the heartfelt memories in “Lisey’s Story,” or the grand epic of survival in “The Stand.” Each one showcases King’s remarkable storytelling ability, ensuring that whether through page or audio, readers will find themselves enthralled and reflective.
