Apt Pupil
Apt Pupil
Fiction | Short Story | Adult | Published in 1983
Book Brief
Beta179
Short Story • Fiction
Southern California • 1970s
1983
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Stephen King's novella "Apt Pupil" from the collection Different Seasons follows a high school student who discovers a hidden secret about an elderly man living nearby. Their relationship devolves into a sinister and corrupt dynamic, leading to severe consequences for both individuals.
Reviews & Readership
38,779 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Stephen King's Apt Pupil grips readers with its chilling exploration of human evil and manipulation. Positive reviews commend its intense psychological depth and captivating pacing. However, some critiques point out disturbing themes and uneven character development. Overall, it's a compelling yet unsettling read that challenges moral boundaries.
Who Should Read Apt Pupil?
Readers who would enjoy Stephen King's Apt Pupil are likely fans of psychological thrillers and dark, morally complex narratives. Comparable to books like American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis and Lord of the Flies by William Golding, they appreciate deep dives into the darker sides of human nature and twisted character studies.
38,779 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
179
Short Story • Fiction
Southern California • 1970s
1983
Adult
18+ years
We’re just getting started
Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!