The Shining

By: Stephen King

Narrated by: Campbell Scott

Length: 15 hrs and 50 mins

Publisher's summary

Before Doctor Sleep, there was The Shining, a classic of modern American horror from the undisputed master, Stephen King.

Jack Torrance's new job at the Overlook Hotel is the perfect chance for a fresh start. As the off-season caretaker at the atmospheric old hotel, he'll have plenty of time to spend reconnecting with his family and working on his writing. But as the harsh winter weather sets in, the idyllic location feels ever more remote...and more sinister. And the only one to notice the strange and terrible forces gathering around the Overlook is Danny Torrance, a uniquely gifted five-year-old.

©1977 Stephen King (P)2005 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

"A master storyteller." ( Los Angeles Times)

"He's the author who can always make the improbable so scary you'll feel compelled to check the locks on the front door." ( The Boston Globe)

"Scary!... Serves up horrors at a brisk, unflagging pace." ( The New York Times)

Glad I Finally Read it.

I have seen many many many Steven King movies, but have only recently started getting into his books. I am very happy I have. The details really help you understand what is happening. With the movies many times you are left confused because of time restraints. For me being able to picture everything in my mind is what keeps me interested in a book. Even if the story isn't great I will still be able to finish it. This book does a great job at that.

At first I wasn't too thrilled with the narrator choice. He starts off pretty flat and the characters seem really dull. As the book goes on I started to feel that was intentional. The characters slowly started developing more pronounced personalities and so did the voices. This coincides with the action of the book ramping up as well.

Overall my opinion is if you are a Steven King Movie fan & just starting into his books you will be very happy you chose this one.

Best book ever

Love it, best story ever. Great performance story telling. Stephen King writes the best books.

Slow, creepy build

I really enjoyed the build to this story. I loved how The Overlook was both the backdrop and a character. The vivid pictured painted by King had me biting my nails and sighing with relief. The voice acting is also superb. Highly recommend!

Better than the movie and not as good...

This is much more in depth than the movie. They both have stuff that is better than the other. So the book is worth the read.

At first i hated Scott's read. Then I got used to it an into it.

Classic

I thought the movie was better. I thought the narrator did a great job with the exception of Danny. I could not do it better, but respectfully, he sounded more like a ten year old than a 5 yr old. My only complaint. Still worth the purchase!

The book is soooo much better than the movie.

This is truly a classic case of a brilliantly written book being far better than the movie version of it. You do yourselves a disservice by relying upon the film as your sole source of this Stephen King masterpiece. On top of this, the performance given by Campbell Scott, and he does perform his narration, make no mistake about it, is superb and memorable. In short, I don't think I care to see the movie again after experiencing this beautifully written book in this format. Between Mr. King's impeccable craftsmanship as a writer and storyteller, and Mr. Campbell's flawless and believable presentation of the horror, madness and achingly familiar flaws and strengths of humans, you can be assured that you will thoroughly enjoy listening to this audible offering of 'The Shining'. Five stars all around.

A Wonderful Nightmare

SPOILER FREE

Not suggested to be listened to at night, The Shining is nothing like the movie- a well told story that despite the main character's ability to see the future keeps you guessing what will happen next. Wonderful narration that actually does distinct voices for every character.

King's Masterpiece!

Do you have any additional comments?

I've read The Shining multiple times; it remains one of my all-time favorite books - ditto the movie. I was a bit reticent to listen to the audio version as I didn't want to taint my love of the story with the wrong narration. I had nothing to worry about - Campbell Scott is perfect for this book. I consider this King's masterpiece - even after multiple readings/listenings/viewings, The Shining still thrills and captivates me - and yes, it still sends shivers up my spine.

just go buy it

Would you consider the audio edition of The Shining to be better than the print version?

yes, because that narrator knows what's up

What did you like best about this story?

everything, Duh !!

What about Campbell Scott’s performance did you like?

ohhh yes, he is the best narrator i hv ever heard.

Did you have an extreme reaction to this book? Did it make you laugh or cry?

i did not sleep 3 days so yeah :).

Any additional comments?

Amazing book. go buy it

Great book. Stephen King never disappoints.

I loved the book and I'm looking forward to watching the movie again as an adult (saw it once when I was 12)....but now I'll get it! Mr. Scott's performance was on point!!!