Finalizing my course readings, and I really need some Constant Readers to weigh in on two things in particular. 1) I am torn between The Dead Zone and Salem's Lot. The course is designed to introduce students to the study of King's work, so I'm going with his greatest hits/works that had a significant impact on literature and/or pop culture. I initially started with The Dead Zone, but am now leaning towards Salem's Lot since it came right after Carrie. Thoughts (even just general preferences)? and 2) General thoughts about the readings? One thing I noticed is I don't have anything from the early-mid 2000's. Are there any books you would swap out or in? In other words, is there a book missing here, for you as a Constant Reader, that really defines King's work/influence as a writer? We're at a book per week, so I can't add any additional texts which makes this sooooo difficult! Below are the books we'll be reading:
On writing (2000)
Carrie (1974)
The short stories (selections)
The Shining (1977)
The Long Walk (1979)
The Dead Zone or Salem's Lot (1979)
Misery (1987)
Pet Sematary (1983)
The Green Mile (1996)
The Gunslinger (1982)
The Stand or It (1978 or 1986) [class vote]
Different Seasons (1982)
Elevation (2018)