After finishing this one recently, it’s safe to say 11/22/63 is one of my favorite King novels thus far. It has a little bit of everything: suspense, historical fiction, conspiracies, and even a great love story.
The JFK assassination is a topic that has been debated and written about ceaselessly since it occurred. The number of books and related theories is mind-boggling. This is clearly a passionate subject for King, and it shows throughout each page of 11/22/63. The man definitely did his homework, shall we say. He doesn’t attempt to mask his disdain for Oswald in the novel either.
One of my favorite aspects of King’s writing is his ability to create such a vivid setting in his novels. While reading 11/22/63, I felt like I was transported back to that time period along with Jake. The clothes, the cars, the music, the smoking—it all added to the nostalgic feel.
For a so-called “horror” writer, King can sure craft one heck of a love story. The relationship between Jake and Sadie reminded me of Johnny and Sarah in The Dead Zone. The whole time I was just hoping against hope that they would end up together.
One aspect of the novel I didn’t much care for was the explanation of the Yellow Card Man. I felt that part was sort of thrown together hastily. However, that wasn’t a huge part of the novel, so it didn’t affect my overall thoughts too much.
Loved the ending. Absolutely perfect. I haven’t read the alternate ending yet, but I’m glad SK used Joe’s idea.
Overall, 11/22/63 is a Top 5 King novel for me. I could write endlessly about it, but I’m keeping my review rather brief. This novel had a little of everything evoked many emotions for me while reading it. I must admit, the ending choked me up a little. It was a very fitting end to a fantastic novel.
Rating: 9/10
The JFK assassination is a topic that has been debated and written about ceaselessly since it occurred. The number of books and related theories is mind-boggling. This is clearly a passionate subject for King, and it shows throughout each page of 11/22/63. The man definitely did his homework, shall we say. He doesn’t attempt to mask his disdain for Oswald in the novel either.
One of my favorite aspects of King’s writing is his ability to create such a vivid setting in his novels. While reading 11/22/63, I felt like I was transported back to that time period along with Jake. The clothes, the cars, the music, the smoking—it all added to the nostalgic feel.
For a so-called “horror” writer, King can sure craft one heck of a love story. The relationship between Jake and Sadie reminded me of Johnny and Sarah in The Dead Zone. The whole time I was just hoping against hope that they would end up together.
One aspect of the novel I didn’t much care for was the explanation of the Yellow Card Man. I felt that part was sort of thrown together hastily. However, that wasn’t a huge part of the novel, so it didn’t affect my overall thoughts too much.
Loved the ending. Absolutely perfect. I haven’t read the alternate ending yet, but I’m glad SK used Joe’s idea.
Overall, 11/22/63 is a Top 5 King novel for me. I could write endlessly about it, but I’m keeping my review rather brief. This novel had a little of everything evoked many emotions for me while reading it. I must admit, the ending choked me up a little. It was a very fitting end to a fantastic novel.
Rating: 9/10