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11.22.63

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011

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Book Brief

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Stephen King

11.22.63

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

740

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Texas, Maine • 1960s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Stephen King’s 11.22.63, high school teacher Jake Epping learns from diner owner Al Templeton about a time portal transporting them to 1958. Jake is tasked with preventing JFK's assassination but discovers altering time has perilous effects. As he navigates these challenges, he battles personal and moral dilemmas. The novel contains descriptions of violence and domestic abuse.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Emotional

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Stephen King's 11.22.63 is lauded for its gripping narrative and meticulous historical detail. A compelling blend of sci-fi and historical fiction, it captivates readers with intricate plotting and well-developed characters. Some critique its length and pacing, but the majority praise its imaginative premise and emotional depth, making it a standout in King's oeuvre.

Who should read this

Who Should Read 11.22.63?

A reader who enjoys 11.22.63 by Stephen King would likely be captivated by historical fiction intertwined with thrilling supernatural elements. Fans of The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger and The Plot Against America by Philip Roth would find this blend of time travel, suspense, and historical drama intriguing.

Character List

Jake Epping/George Amberson

A high school English teacher who becomes involved in a mission to change history by attempting to prevent the assassination of John F. Kennedy, spurred on by his kindness and willingness to improve the world.

A librarian who becomes romantically involved with Jake, providing him with companionship and strength as he carries out his mission in the past.

The owner of a diner who introduces Jake to the time-traveling rabbit-hole, setting Jake on his journey to change historical events.

A janitor at Jake's high school whose tragic past inspires Jake to utilize his time-traveling ability to attempt to improve Harry's life.

The 35th President of the United States, whose assassination becomes the central event Jake aims to prevent by traveling back in time.

The man historically recognized as the assassin of John F. Kennedy, he is closely observed by Jake as he tries to ascertain his motives and actions.

A character speculated to have influenced Lee Harvey Oswald, whose role in the events leading up to the assassination is explored within the narrative.

The father of Harry Dunning, known for his violent tendencies, whom Jake aims to stop from committing a family tragedy.

A man intertwined with Frank Dunning’s past who becomes an unexpected ally to Jake in the effort to prevent an impending crime.

An actual historical figure whose attempted assassination is a significant plot point for Jake's investigation into Lee Harvey Oswald's actions.

Individuals who appear near the time-travel portal, serving as cryptic figures connected to the maintenance and consequences of the time-travel phenomenon.

Book Details
Pages

740

Format

Novel • Fiction

Period
Setting

Texas, Maine • 1960s

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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