49 pages • 1 hour read
Carrie
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Book Brief
290
Novel • Fiction
Chamberlain, Maine • 1970s
1974
Adult
18+ years
850L
Super Short Summary
Carrie by Stephen King follows Carrie White, a 16-year-old girl with telekinetic powers, who is bullied by her peers and abused by her mother. After a traumatic incident at prom, she uses her powers to exact revenge on her tormentors. The novel is narrated through a mix of epistolary excerpts and third-person limited omniscient perspectives, depicting the events that lead to the catastrophic climax. The story contains graphic depictions of violence, abuse, and bullying.
Dark
Unnerving
Mysterious
Emotional
Suspenseful
Reviews & Readership
770,252 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Stephen King's Carrie is widely hailed for its gripping portrayal of adolescence and supernatural horror. Critics praise its suspenseful narrative and deep character development, particularly of the titular character. While some find the writing occasionally melodramatic and the pacing uneven, overall, it is regarded as a powerful and chilling debut.
Who Should Read Carrie?
Readers who relish psychological horror, teenage angst, and supernatural elements will find Carrie by Stephen King riveting. Fans of works like The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson or Flowers in the Attic by V.C. Andrews will connect with its intense, emotional narrative and the complexities of growing up in a hostile environment.
770,252 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sue Snell
Sue Snell
A high school student who feels remorseful for taking part in bullying Carrie and seeks redemption by trying to make amends through acts of kindness and understanding.
Margaret White
Margaret White
Carrie's abusive and religiously fanatical mother, who imposes her oppressive beliefs on Carrie, viewing her daughter's natural maturation with fear and loathing.
Chris Hargensen
Chris Hargensen
A popular but cruel student who bullies Carrie and orchestrates a significant act of malice against her, driven by spite and a desire for revenge.
Tommy Ross
Tommy Ross
A well-liked and kind-hearted student who willingly asks Carrie to prom, showing her unexpected empathy and acceptance.
Billy Nolan
Billy Nolan
Chris's aggressive and violent boyfriend, who assists Chris in her schemes against Carrie, embodying the physical force behind her plans.
Rita Desjardin
Rita Desjardin
The physical education teacher who initially shares in some of the students' disdain for Carrie but later grows sympathetic, attempting to support Carrie against bullying.
290
Novel • Fiction
Chamberlain, Maine • 1970s
1974
Adult
18+ years
850L
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