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Under the Dome

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009

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Book Brief

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Stephen King

Under the Dome

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

1074

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chester's Mill, Maine • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In Under the Dome by Stephen King, an invisible, electrified Dome encapsulates Chester’s Mill, cutting it off from the external world. Chaos breaks out as civic order collapses, with Big Jim Rennie seizing power and framing outsider Dale Barbara, a former soldier. Barbara, aided by local allies, discovers the Dome's source—an alien generator—and strives to survive amidst escalating violence and tyranny. The source material depicts sexual assault, graphic violence, substance use, and suicidal ideation, and features offensive language directed at women and LGBTQ+ people.

Dark

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Unnerving

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

4.2

321,185 ratings

71%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stephen King's Under the Dome captivates with its gripping plot and well-developed characters. Reviewers praise its intense atmosphere and social commentary, but some feel the lengthy narrative can be overwhelming and occasionally meanders. Despite these pacing issues, it remains a compelling read for fans of dystopian thrillers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Under the Dome?

A reader who enjoys intense, character-driven drama with elements of horror and science fiction will find Under the Dome engaging. Fans of King’s own The Stand or George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, which blend intricate plots with vivid character arcs, will appreciate the suspense and complexity in this novel.

4.2

321,185 ratings

71%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

1074

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Chester's Mill, Maine • Contemporary

Publication Year

2009

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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