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Different Seasons

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1982

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Book Brief

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Stephen King

Different Seasons

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1982
Book Details
Pages

508

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Maine • Mid-20th century

Publication Year

1982

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

890L

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Super Short Summary

Different Seasons by Stephen King is a collection of four novellas connected to the four seasons: "Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption" details the friendship and escape plan of two prisoners; "Apt Pupil" involves a teenager blackmailing a former Nazi soldier; "The Body" follows four boys searching for a missing child's corpse; and "The Breathing Method" centers on a club where members tell stories, including a tragic childbirth tale. The book contains references to death by suicide, sexual assault, racism, and the Holocaust.

Mysterious

Dark

Nostalgic

Bittersweet

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.5

216,850 ratings

87%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Different Seasons by Stephen King is lauded for its compelling storytelling and distinct narratives within each novella. Critics praise King's ability to delve deep into characters, offering a mix of suspense, horror, and human emotion. Some find the pacing inconsistent, though the rich thematic exploration and engaging plots largely compensate. Recommended for fans of rich, character-driven stories.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Different Seasons?

Fans of gripping storytelling and diverse narratives will enjoy Different Seasons by Stephen King. Ideal for readers who appreciate the blend of suspense, psychological depth, and human drama found in works like The Shawshank Redemption and Stand by Me. This collection captures King's versatility and knack for compelling character studies.

4.5

216,850 ratings

87%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Andy Dufresne

A former investment banker and the protagonist known for his determination and intelligence, he remains focused on achieving freedom from prison, impacting those around him despite his reserved nature.

A long-term inmate who narrates his story and reflects on his crimes with remorse, ultimately finding hope through his friendship with Andy.

A seemingly perfect American boy whose fascination with dark subjects leads him into a dangerous relationship with a former Nazi commandant.

A former concentration camp commandant living under an alias who becomes entwined in a tense relationship with Todd Bowden.

The narrator and protagonist who, as a young boy, embarks on a quest with his friends, grappling with feelings of invisibility within his family.

A close friend of Gordie who displays strength and emotional depth, striving for justice and coping with societal injustices.

Two friends of Gordie and Chris who accompany them on their quest; each has unique vulnerabilities and contributes to the group's dynamics.

A mid-level attorney who discovers a mysterious club that adds an element of wonder to his otherwise ordinary life.

A doctor who narrates the story of Sandra Stansfield, providing insight into the challenges and awe of pregnancy and childbirth.

A determined young woman facing societal challenges while committed to bringing her child into the world.

Book Details
Pages

508

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Maine • Mid-20th century

Publication Year

1982

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

890L

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