Misery is a psychological horror thriller by renowned author Stephen King. The story centers on Paul Sheldon, a famous author known for his popular Misery Chastain series of romance novels. After a near-fatal car crash in rural Colorado, Paul is rescued by Annie Wilkes, a former nurse and his self-proclaimed "number one fan." Instead of seeking medical help, Annie confines Paul to her home, leveraging her nursing skills and a stockpile of pain medication to keep him under her control.
The situation escalates when Annie, who is obsessed with Paul's series, discovers that he has killed off the beloved protagonist. Infuriated, Annie demands that Paul write a new novel, Misery's Return, to resurrect the character, and makes him her prisoner until he complies. As Paul writes to placate Annie, he discovers the extent of her instability and, worse, her dark past as a serial killer. The novel captures a harrowing tale of captivity, manipulation, and the struggle for survival, with Paul employing his cunning and resourcefulness in a desperate bid to escape Annie's clutches.
Misery earned critical acclaim for its exploration of themes such as fan obsession and the relationship between celebrities and their admirers. It diverges from King's usual incorporation of supernatural elements, offering a chilling look into human psychosis and the dark side of fandom. Published in 1987, the novel received that year's Bram Stoker Award for Best Novel and was nominated for the World Fantasy Award for Best Novel in 1988. Its success led to a highly regarded film adaptation in 1990, directed by Rob Reiner and starring James Caan and Kathy Bates, who won an Academy Award for her performance as Annie Wilkes. Misery has also been adapted for the stage and widely referenced in popular culture, underscoring its enduring impact and relevance.
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About the author
Stephen King
Stephen Edwin King, born on September 21, 1947, in Portland, Maine, is a prolific American author best known for his extensive works in horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, and fantasy. His remarkable storytelling ability has made him a household name, often referred to as the "King of Horror." King's books, including more than 50 worldwide bestsellers, have sold over 350 million copies, making him one of the most successful authors in modern literature. His literary career began with his 1974 debut novel, Carrie, followed by notable works such as Salem's Lot, The Shining, The Stand, and The Dead Zone.
Raised primarily by his mother, Nellie Ruth Pillsbury King, after his father left when Stephen was just two, King's early life was marked by financial difficulties and frequent relocations across various states. Eventually settling back in Durham, Maine, King's interest in writing and storytelling blossomed during his adolescence. He attended the University of Maine at Orono, where he contributed to the student newspaper and engaged in student politics. After graduating in 1970 with a BA in English, King struggled to find a teaching position, instead supporting himself by selling short stories to men's magazines and working at an industrial laundry.
King's personal life, particularly his marriage to Tabitha Spruce in 1971, plays a significant role in his writing. The couple's support for each other during their early struggles helped shape King's career. It was Tabitha who encouraged Stephen to expand his short story "Carrie" into a full-length novel, which eventually became his first published book and a significant breakthrough in his career. Together, Stephen and Tabitha King have three children, Naomi, Joe, and Owen, with both sons following in their father's footsteps to become writers.
Throughout his illustrious career, King has received numerous awards and honors. These include the 2014 National Medal of Arts and the 2003 National Book Foundation Medal for his distinguished contribution to American letters. His works have been adapted into celebrated films, television series, and miniseries, such as The Shawshank Redemption, Gerald's Game, and It.
King's impact extends beyond his horror narratives, exploring themes of ordinary life, personal struggles, and the complexity of the human condition. Renowned for his vivid characterizations and masterful plot constructions, King continues to captivate readers and audiences worldwide, contributing significantly to both popular and literary culture.
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