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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

Character List

Dale “Barbie” Barbara

An Iraq War veteran and short-order cook in Chester's Mill, known for his outsider status and wanderer spirit. As the Dome descends, he reluctantly steps into a leadership role due to his military background.

The power-hungry and corrupt town selectman of Chester's Mill, who poses as a moral and religious figure. He orchestrates various schemes to maintain control under the Dome.

Big Jim's son, who exhibits violent and troubled behavior, exacerbated by an undiagnosed medical condition. He struggles with a desire for power while searching for his father's approval.

The resilient and intelligent owner-editor of the local newspaper, known for her determination and independence. She symbolizes democratic freedoms threatened by the Dome's presence.

A resourceful and intelligent teen, also known as “Scarecrow Joe,” who leads his friends in uncovering crucial information under the Dome. He is known for his political insight and wit.

A tough and skilled skateboarder, and a member of Joe's group of friends. She is admired for her strength and competence amidst the town's crisis.

A humorous and easygoing friend in Joe’s group, contributing to their adventures and problem-solving efforts under the Dome. His optimism provides support to his friends.

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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