With an updated and expanded biography chapter, and insightful analysis of his eight most recently published works of fiction, this volume will be enjoyed by students and fans of Stephen King of all ages. In spite of tremendous personal adversity, Stephen King continues to reign as perhaps the most popular and prolific writer in America. For readers of all ages as well as students of literature, libraries will want to add this revised Critical Companion to their collections. The biography chapter has been updated from the original Companion, and expanded to trace King's return to writing after his accident, including his forays into e-publishing. Also reconsidered are the questions of King's placement within the genre of horror, as well as his new directions in suspense fiction, science fiction, fantasy and other areas of writing. This revised edition contains all new chapters on King's eight most recently published works of fiction, all given full critical treatment in this volume.
A full chapter is devoted to each novel including the serialized work The Green Mile (1997), as well as Desperation (1996), Dark Tower IV: Wizard and Glass (1997), Bag of Bones (1998), The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon (1999), Hearts in Atlantis (1999) and Dreamcatcher (2001). A concise plot synopsis is given for each work, followed by a discussion of the character development, and the thematic concerns explored by King, as well as issues of style and symbolism. An alternate critical perspective is offered for each work, which helps students to further appreciate King's canon of writings. A selective list of further suggested readings includes biographical sources, general criticism, and reviews, making this a valuable resource for students undertaking research.