Best Stephen King Books 2025: Top 9 Must-Reads

Looking for the best Stephen King books? Start with 'The Green Mile' – an emotional rollercoaster that'll keep you hooked.

Carrie coverThe Shining coverMisery cover

Do you want a hair-raising adventure into the best Stephen King books? Well, we’ve got you covered! We focus on spine-chilling plots, unforgettable characters, and tales that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Whether you’re looking for a thrilling scare or an enthralling tale, our list has something for everyone. Buckle up for a wild ride through the best Stephen King books!

On this list:

9 Carrie by Stephen King

Carrie cover

  • Genre: Horror, Thriller
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1974
  • Pages: 199

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We started with ‘Carrie’ because it was King’s first published. It’s like the first time you try ice cream – unforgettable and a bit sticky. King’s raw talent shines here, and we get to see the seeds of his future suspenseful brilliance. Plus, who can forget prom night terror? Popular for a reason!

8 The Shining by Stephen King

The Shining cover

  • Genre: Horror, Psychological Thriller
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1977
  • Pages: 447

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This book is warmer than a haunted hotel on a snowy day! Jack Torrance’s slow descent into madness is eerily captivating. It also gave us a new appreciation for a good escape plan! King’s masterful spooky style makes it a must-read.

7 Misery by Stephen King

Misery cover

  • Genre: Psychological Horror
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1987
  • Pages: 320

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We fell in love with ‘Misery’ because of Annie Wilkes. She’s eerily charming and terrifying. Writing in captivity has never been this engaging. You will never look at a sledgehammer the same way again!

6 It by Stephen King

It cover

  • Genre: Horror
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1986
  • Pages: 1138

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‘It’ turned our fear of clowns into a real thing. King’s detailed storytelling made us part of the Losers’ Club, and we loved every scary page. It’s like a clown car of horror — packed with surprises.

5 Pet Sematary by Stephen King

Pet Sematary cover

  • Genre: Horror
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1983
  • Pages: 374

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If you’ve ever lost a pet, this book can be a bit unnerving! King’s exploration of grief and the supernatural leaves a chill. We couldn’t read it at night without our own pets nearby.

4 The Stand by Stephen King

The Stand cover

  • Genre: Post-Apocalyptic, Horror
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1978
  • Pages: 1152

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This epic tale of good vs. evil had us on the edge of our seats. King’s ability to create a sprawling cast of characters makes it epic. It’s like binging a TV series before it existed.

3 11/22/63 by Stephen King

11/22/63 cover

  • Genre: Science Fiction, Thriller
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 2011
  • Pages: 849

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Time travel meets history in this book. King’s spin on the JFK assassination is both thrilling and emotional. We found ourselves rooting for history to change!

2 The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger by Stephen King

The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger cover

  • Genre: Fantasy, Western
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1982
  • Pages: 224

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This one had us hooked with its blend of fantasy and Western elements. Roland’s journey is a unique ride, different from King’s other works. It’s like spaghetti western meets magical realism.

1 The Green Mile by Stephen King

The Green Mile cover

  • Genre: Fantasy, Drama
  • Formats: Hardcover, Paperback, Kindle, Audio
  • Year released: 1996
  • Pages: 400

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We crowned ‘The Green Mile’ the best Stephen King book. Why? Well, it’s a touching tale of justice, mystery, and the supernatural. King’s knack for character development shines. Reading about John Coffey was like meeting a friend who you wish could stay longer. The emotional weight lingered long after we turned the last page. It’s an experience, not just a read!

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!