Tapping into our primal fears of modern technology, which made Cell a number-one best seller, Stephen King sets his sights on the latest high-tech gadget in UR, in which a mysterious e-book reader opens a disturbing window into other worlds.
Reeling from a painful break-up, English instructor and avid book lover Wesley Smith is haunted by his ex-girlfriend's parting shot: "Why can't you just read off the computer like everyone else?" He buys an e-book reader out of spite, but soon finds he can use the device to glimpse realities he had never before imagined, discovering literary riches beyond his wildest dreams...and all-too-human tragedies that surpass his most terrible nightmares.
From vintage cars (Christine and From a Buick 8) to household appliances (Maximum Overdrive) to exercise equipment (Stationary Bike), Stephen King has mesmerized us with tales of apparently ordinary machines that take on lives of their own. UR gives this classic theme an up-to-the-minute spin, resulting in a horror masterpiece for our time and for the ages.
©2010 Stephen King (P)2010 Simon & Schuster
"Firm, gripping, and deftly written by a craftsman at the top of his game, this is King at his crisp, clear, page-turning best." (Amazon.com review)
I AM!
"BRAVO!"
Just finished UR, and all I can say is WOW! What a fantastic story. I am one of SK's constant readers and still had no idea how this was going to end up until the last word had been read. I had not heard of Holter Graham befor this but he was perfect for this story. Excellent Read!!!
"UR Functions Well"
What a great little short story about our choices, even if well meaning, and their consequences. Stephen King brings us into contact with the Dark Tower once again and it is always nice to go back there along a new path of the beam.
Very good narration. Left me wanting more.
"If you're a Dark Tower fan, you'll love it"
I have read the entire Dark Tower series multiple times and its my favorite series of all time. I know Stephen has his detractors, but I really love his stories. If you're a Dark Tower fan, about half way through this quick listen, you'll really appreciate this story. I have to admit that the ending left me wanting a bit more, but I enjoyed the story all the same. Knowing what I know about the Dark Tower series, when certain elements come into play, you can't help but laugh! Overall, a worthwhile listen for me personally.
"shouldn't audible give us a break?"
this was an entertaining couple of hours, but a little SK derivative (still better than most writer's best). however, i object to audible's full credit charge for something that would have cost about the same had i paid cash. i've been a member for 4 years. shouldn't this have been a 1/2 credit listen?
"loved it"
I'm not a big Stephen King fan, but this short story was the right length for a driving trip. Turned out to be a great story and one I will remember. Most of King's work could do with some editting, but this story was perfect. Loved it.
I believe a reviewer should finish a book before submitting a review. What do you think?
"Wellllll.....not my favorite, sorry"
I'm clearly in the minority here, I really thought this story was not so terrific. I love SK and have listened or read all of his books, but this short story left me with a "that was okay" kind of feeling. The story was predictable and I felt like I could have left it any any point and not have missed out. So if you are on the fence about spending the credit......
"Amazon Advertising"
OK, I love King and I can honestly say the story is not bad. In fact, it is truly a Stephen King short story. I also have to say that I don't mind capitalism and marketing. The problem is, this is a two hour book about the Amazon Kindle. The story keeps this from being a 0 star book for me. I would not have minded had this been a freebie but to pay for what is essentially a long Kindle ad was a bit frustrating.
"A fun romp in a typical Stephen King universe"
Stephen king likes stories where people are trapped and their true natures come on display. Average Joes and outsiders become heroes, and the rich, political bigwigs show their true, evil colors. It's an entertaining story that rehashes many of King's favorite themes...nothing surprising for fans of King, but an entertaining listen from beginning to end.
"Very Enjoyable"
Some people may listen to this and consider it as just an ad for the Kindle, and I can understand that assumption if you only listen to the first 30-45 minutes. It is obvious that King has a liking for the device, and I cannot assume there was no marketing involved, but there is still a very good story here. Short, and to the point, it is easy to identify with the main character. I personally love the concept, and only wish it were explored in a longer format. That being said, it is definitely worth a listen.
"Too short"
Reading a Stephen King book is always a sure thing for me. I know I'm going to be absorbed by the story. UR was no exception, but it felt like the story hadn't been developed enough, that it should have been longer. The ending felt sudden and unexpected, as if Mr King only had an hour left to finish the book. Regardless, I enjoyed the listen and look forward to the next journey with Mr King.