Helpful Score: 10
This is one thick book, coming in just shy of 850 pages, and I won't lie, it's not my favorite work by Stephen King but an enjoyable read nonetheless. The story is about Jake Epping, a single schoolteacher who finds a portal to 1958 in the back of a diner and sets out on a mission to save John F. Kennedy's life on November 22, 1963. There's a love story running right through the center of the story, and this I think is one of the only faults in the book, because the love story part runs a bit on the long side and bogs the main tension line down. The ending is somewhat unexpected and bittersweet--what is with Mr. King writing tearjerkers of late? On the whole, a good book with some surprises, good, bad, and ugly.
Helpful Score: 10
I had kind of given up on Stephen King - I believe the last novel of his I tried to read was "Lisey's Story" a few years ago which I couldn't finish. I loved all of his earlier works including "Salem's Lot," "Carrie," "The Shining," "The Stand," and on and on, but some of his later stuff just didn't do it for me. But when I first heard about "11/22/63" and its premise of going back in time to stop the Kennedy assassination, I had to read it! I got a copy as a Christmas gift and I was not disappointed. This has to be one of King's best books since "The Stand" - I loved every word of it (and that's a lot of words - almost 850 pages worth)! I was 13 in 1963 when Kennedy was killed and I actually remember thinking at the time that it would be nice to go back and prevent the killing - it really was like a bad dream. King's book uses this idea and the resulting novel is all that you could ask for in a time travel story. Some of it was reminiscent of the "Back to the Future" movies including using known sporting events results as a betting tool to make money. It also reminded me a little of "It's a Wonderful Life" and how changes can effect other events and people's lives. Along the way in this novel, King takes us back to Derry, Maine and the events of his novel "It". He then provides a myriad of information about Lee Oswald and his wife Marina, and the events leading to 11/22/63. The novel also includes a great love story and the ending I thought was near perfect. This is the first book I have read in 2012 and I doubt I will read a better one this year - very high recommendation!
Helpful Score: 4
It was better than I expected. Main character Jake/George was well written. Book was way too long could have cut 25% and not missed much. Worse thing was I had a pretty good idea how it was going to end. Last chapter was charming though. Read Stepehn King's afterward at end of book it was very interesting.
Helpful Score: 3
I dont read horror, or graphic violent books, but I have read a few of Stephen King's earlier novels: Carrie, The Stand, The Green Mile, and Pet Sementary. I am not a devoted King fan. I thought he kinda became a formula horror writer. I won this book in a the WLVB in a contest here on PBS. (Thanks Richard) That is the only reason it came into my hands.
I offered this book in another swap game, and it seemed a shame to not read it before I mailed it off. I read many other posts that said despite its 850 pages, it was a fast read: 200 pages a day fast read. I tested that theory and found I read it in 3 days. So dont let the length scare you off.
I am a big fan of time travel, and butterfly effect books, and movies, so this was right up my alley. I love our main character,Jake/George. Even thought I was a not a big King fan, I caught the connection between the clown in IT and the town of Derry, Maine that our character soon finds himself in.
This book doesnt try answer some of they WHYS of time time travel, so that makes it easier to read. Some readers hated the love story. I found it to be the best part. Because when you think about it, this is a love story. Love your country, love your friend, love a woman, even love yourself. Too many choices...if you can have only one.
I loved the book. I think you will too.
I offered this book in another swap game, and it seemed a shame to not read it before I mailed it off. I read many other posts that said despite its 850 pages, it was a fast read: 200 pages a day fast read. I tested that theory and found I read it in 3 days. So dont let the length scare you off.
I am a big fan of time travel, and butterfly effect books, and movies, so this was right up my alley. I love our main character,Jake/George. Even thought I was a not a big King fan, I caught the connection between the clown in IT and the town of Derry, Maine that our character soon finds himself in.
This book doesnt try answer some of they WHYS of time time travel, so that makes it easier to read. Some readers hated the love story. I found it to be the best part. Because when you think about it, this is a love story. Love your country, love your friend, love a woman, even love yourself. Too many choices...if you can have only one.
I loved the book. I think you will too.
Helpful Score: 3
This is not your ordinary Stephen King book! Although it's 800+ pages, it seemed like a quick read because the story drew me in immediately and kept me going back for more! It has suspense, drama, a little bit of a love story and the intensity that keeps you wondering if the hero will accomplish what he set out to do. I'd highly recommend it!
Helpful Score: 3
This book was well worth the read. I had never read a Stephen King book, but loved the writing style and the unique storyline. Don't let the size of the book scare you, it is a fast read.
Helpful Score: 3
First Line: I have never been what you'd call a crying man.
That's what high school English teacher Jake Epping will tell you, if you were to ask. But while grading essays, he's blown away by what GED student and janitor Harry Dunning has written. Somehow, some way, fifty years ago Harry survived his father's sledgehammer slaughter of his entire family. Jake is still thinking how life can turn on a dime when he learns of an even more bizarre secret: Al, owner of the local diner and Jake's friend, wants Jake to take over his obsession. Many years ago Al discovered a time portal in the diner's storeroom, and he's been trying ever since to prevent the assassination of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy.
Jake allows himself to be persuaded, and when he steps through the portal, he finds himself in the era of Elvis, cheap gasoline, and almost universal cigarette smoking. Jake has plenty of time to start a new life in small town Texas, but each day draws him nearer to a troubled loner named Lee Harvey Oswald. Will he be able to accomplish what Al tried and failed to do? And if he does stop the assassination of the president, what sort of consequences will there be?
I have to admit that I held off reading this book for a long time. I was in third grade when JFK was assassinated. Yes, I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I first heard the news. For reasons that don't need to go into a book review, this event hit my mother and I hard, and I was reluctant to rip the Band-aid off that particular wound, even if it had healed long ago.
I should not have worried, and I should not have waited. This book has very little to do with JFK and everything to do with Jake Epping. Stephen King's main character takes us all on a nostalgic yet honest journey through America during the end of the Eisenhower administration. Everything is brought to life in vivid and loving detail. I enjoyed reliving the era of my childhood, but as I read, I found myself thinking more about recent American history, its might-have-beens... and about love.
Few writers can immerse me in their fictional worlds so completely as does Stephen King. No matter how strange, King creates characters and backdrops that are familiar and that I can trust-- which is a very good thing because I need someone/something trustworthy at my back while I'm reading to figure out how to escape his weirdness!
If you've been postponing reading this book for the same reasons I did, you can stop. When you read 11-22-63, you're going to read a lot more about love than you will about bullets and lone gunmen.
That's what high school English teacher Jake Epping will tell you, if you were to ask. But while grading essays, he's blown away by what GED student and janitor Harry Dunning has written. Somehow, some way, fifty years ago Harry survived his father's sledgehammer slaughter of his entire family. Jake is still thinking how life can turn on a dime when he learns of an even more bizarre secret: Al, owner of the local diner and Jake's friend, wants Jake to take over his obsession. Many years ago Al discovered a time portal in the diner's storeroom, and he's been trying ever since to prevent the assassination of President John Fitzgerald Kennedy.
Jake allows himself to be persuaded, and when he steps through the portal, he finds himself in the era of Elvis, cheap gasoline, and almost universal cigarette smoking. Jake has plenty of time to start a new life in small town Texas, but each day draws him nearer to a troubled loner named Lee Harvey Oswald. Will he be able to accomplish what Al tried and failed to do? And if he does stop the assassination of the president, what sort of consequences will there be?
I have to admit that I held off reading this book for a long time. I was in third grade when JFK was assassinated. Yes, I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing when I first heard the news. For reasons that don't need to go into a book review, this event hit my mother and I hard, and I was reluctant to rip the Band-aid off that particular wound, even if it had healed long ago.
I should not have worried, and I should not have waited. This book has very little to do with JFK and everything to do with Jake Epping. Stephen King's main character takes us all on a nostalgic yet honest journey through America during the end of the Eisenhower administration. Everything is brought to life in vivid and loving detail. I enjoyed reliving the era of my childhood, but as I read, I found myself thinking more about recent American history, its might-have-beens... and about love.
Few writers can immerse me in their fictional worlds so completely as does Stephen King. No matter how strange, King creates characters and backdrops that are familiar and that I can trust-- which is a very good thing because I need someone/something trustworthy at my back while I'm reading to figure out how to escape his weirdness!
If you've been postponing reading this book for the same reasons I did, you can stop. When you read 11-22-63, you're going to read a lot more about love than you will about bullets and lone gunmen.
Helpful Score: 2
Having lived through 11/22/63 - I really enjoyed this book. King is sometimes too way out there for me, but this was well written, covering a lot of the facts, adding a fictional story along the way. I highly recommend it!
Helpful Score: 2
I am a huge fan of Stephen King. When I saw this, I had to read it. I know that JFK's assassination tends to be a serious and controversial subject, so I hoped that the book would be worth the read. It definitely was.
The book is a bit weird, and really getting into it takes a bit of time. Keep with it, I promise it's worth it. The main character is told about a "rabbit hole" and goes through to change history and the course of the world.
Within the first thirty pages of the book, you're pulled in and can't quit reading. I think I read over 100 pages the first time I sat down and opened the book. After that initial reading time, things got slow. I am a mother of two and generally read before bed. For a while, I had no problems turning off the light and going to sleep. Once the book picked back up, I would have to force myself to shut of the light around 4am, knowing that we had to be up by 6. Its definitely worth it, just keep going through the slow parts.
The book is a bit weird, and really getting into it takes a bit of time. Keep with it, I promise it's worth it. The main character is told about a "rabbit hole" and goes through to change history and the course of the world.
Within the first thirty pages of the book, you're pulled in and can't quit reading. I think I read over 100 pages the first time I sat down and opened the book. After that initial reading time, things got slow. I am a mother of two and generally read before bed. For a while, I had no problems turning off the light and going to sleep. Once the book picked back up, I would have to force myself to shut of the light around 4am, knowing that we had to be up by 6. Its definitely worth it, just keep going through the slow parts.
Helpful Score: 2
Although I read a few of his books when I was a teenager, I've never been much of a King fan, mostly because I don't like horror much. But with a title like 11/22/63 to catch my eye I couldn't resist giving it a go.
The story grabbed my attention from page one and continued throughout the story. But how could it not... I enjoy love stories, time travel and the premise of stopping the Kennedy assassination! It didn't disappoint. As a slow reader I was surprised that I read 880 pages in less than a month. Highly recommend.
The story grabbed my attention from page one and continued throughout the story. But how could it not... I enjoy love stories, time travel and the premise of stopping the Kennedy assassination! It didn't disappoint. As a slow reader I was surprised that I read 880 pages in less than a month. Highly recommend.
Helpful Score: 1
This is one of his best books. He seems to be getting better and better. "Joyland" and "Dr. Sleep" are also examples of this.
It is a very long book but once I started reading, it was hard to put it down. The characters are wonderful and it was so interesting the way he connected it to the actual events.
Read it - if you love Stephen King, as I do, you will love this book!
It is a very long book but once I started reading, it was hard to put it down. The characters are wonderful and it was so interesting the way he connected it to the actual events.
Read it - if you love Stephen King, as I do, you will love this book!
Helpful Score: 1
King does it again.
He brings us back to 1958, then forward to 1963 portraying life with vivid detail (and even references another of his stories), giving his take on how and why Oswald wanted to kill Kennedy and how the assassination was prevented.
His re-created timeline is as plausible as the one we live in now as are the questions he brings up during the story.
As entertaining and addictive a read as anything he's ever written, I would highly recommend this story to anyone, even non-King fans.
He brings us back to 1958, then forward to 1963 portraying life with vivid detail (and even references another of his stories), giving his take on how and why Oswald wanted to kill Kennedy and how the assassination was prevented.
His re-created timeline is as plausible as the one we live in now as are the questions he brings up during the story.
As entertaining and addictive a read as anything he's ever written, I would highly recommend this story to anyone, even non-King fans.
Helpful Score: 1
What a spectacular ending to an awesome book. In his Afterword, Stephen King gives credit for the ending to his son, Joe Hill. Kudos to Joe! After 1000 plus pages of reading, I expected to be ready to end this story but, instead, I was thoroughly disappointed to finish. Despite that disappointment, I was thrilled and emotionally touched with the way the novel closes. I have to admit that I had pigeon-holed Stephen King as a certain kind of author - one that I did not generally gravitate to but...this novel broke all previous preconceptions of King's writing for me. The ride down this rabbit hole of a book filled with history and love and unforgettable characters is magical.
Helpful Score: 1
I should say up front, this is probably a biased review because I read Stephen King with caution. I don't like his writing style (I gloss over his crude descriptions and tend to roll my eyes at his over-the-top dialogue on occasion). However, he can be a good storyteller and has quite an imagination-"The Green Mile" is the best example of this to me. I read everything by him when I was much younger-right up until "It" turned me against him. That long book was a great read until it ended so ridiculously. Another reason I do not trust him is that he crosses lines I do not want to cross-he does it on purpose and fans of King may like that-but the lines I'm talking about are the ones that make sure children and animals are protected-call me naive or whatever-but for my reading enjoyment I want those lines protected. So, that's my frame of mind on picking up what looks like a very interesting premise. I have to say I liked it. There are many subplots and many characters we come to know and root for along the way. It started out very interesting, but I became leary about 150 pages in as we revisited, of all things, the town of Derry, Maine, and the scene of "It"! This was just a side road with references from those past events (thankfully) so the overall story continued without becoming lost. The story itself is well done and kept me guessing on how it would play out all the way through, for the characters, the country, and the world. It is a satisfying read that I really enjoyed in the end (despite rolling my eyes and glossing over some things). For me, that's a glowing review on a Stephen King book.
Helpful Score: 1
This was a very interesting read. I did not stay on the edge of my seat the whole time but King kept me interested throughout. Knowing the historical ending of the senario presented by King in the Kennedy assassination it was hard to imagine what the end would be like for the story. But King has other things going on in the book that captures you and stirs your imagination. It is a great book to read and I recommend it highly.
Sam
Sam
Helpful Score: 1
Without a doubt, one of the best books I have ever read! I had gotten away from reading Stephen King, but after this marvel, I will begin reading him again. I forgot what a brilliant writer he is. This book is huge, but kept me captivated all the way through. WOW! is all I can say!
Helpful Score: 1
This is definitely one of the best books I have EVER read in my life and by far the BEST Stephen King has ever written, in my opinion. I'm not an especially fast reader but I read this one in less than 3 weeks. It was so fascinating and engrossing, I just couldn't put it down. I would even read this one again and I am one to NEVER re-read a book. (There are too many books out there to re-read any book, but this one I think I would.)
I loved the story line, the characters, and the ending. Everything about this book was awesome! I LOVED IT ALL!!! I will miss it now that it's done and I will remember it for a long time! If I could give it six stars or more I would have.
I loved the story line, the characters, and the ending. Everything about this book was awesome! I LOVED IT ALL!!! I will miss it now that it's done and I will remember it for a long time! If I could give it six stars or more I would have.
Helpful Score: 1
I never read Stephen King books, because I don't like scary books, but this is not scary. it is a time travel book. It is so well written and so interesting, that I have been recommending it to all my friends. It has been a while since I was reading a book that I "couldn't wait to get back to".
Helpful Score: 1
I am not a fan of the horror genre so I have not followed the writing of Stephen King and must admit I have not read many of his books. Stephen King has proven himself as a master storyteller over the years with his ability to weave a story outside the genre he is known for. I was intrigued by the premise of 11/22/1963 because the concept of being able to go back in time to stop the most pivotal moment in our history is something many Americans have thought about. What if? How would our world change if Kennedy had lived? What other tragic events would have changed as well? Would stopping Kennedys assassination make the world a better place or worse?
The main character, Jake Epping, is a high school English teacher in Maine. One evening he reads an essay by one of his adult GED students named Harry Dunning about how he is the sole survivor of his fathers vicious murder of his entire family. Jakes friend, Al, tells Jake about a time portal in his diners storeroom and asks him to help him stop Kennedys assassination, Jake is filled with doubt it could work. Jake goes back in time and arrives in 1958 and decides to stop the murder of Harrys family first. Jake learns that the past doesnt want to be changed and it will fight back to deter Jake from his goals. Jake is told that every time he uses the portal to go back to the past, everything is reset to the way it originally happens. After a few practice attempts involving many stops and starts, Jake decides to stay in the past to stop Kennedys assassination. He finds himself in the small community of Jodie, Texas going by the alias of George Amberson and teaching high school. He meets and falls in love with Sadie Dunhill, the school librarian. Meanwhile the clock is ticking forward to the infamous date of 11/22/63 and Jake is torn between letting history play itself out or following through on his promise to Al.
I really enjoyed this story and the suspenseful build-up of events leading Jake to his date with destiny. The author gives us a close-up into the life of Lee Harvey Oswald and his wife. Life in Dallas and the surrounding area in the late 1950s-early 1960s is described with such detail, I got a very good sense of what it was like for Jake. I really loved the secondary characters, especially the people Jake meets in Jodie, Texas. I was torn as to whether or not Jake should continue with his mission or not. Loyal fans of Stephen King will also enjoy the references to his other work in this book.
I highly recommend this story if you enjoy books loaded with details and a storyline that sucks you in and keeps you guessing at the outcome. I thought the ending was very unexpected, but I wouldnt change anything about this story.
The main character, Jake Epping, is a high school English teacher in Maine. One evening he reads an essay by one of his adult GED students named Harry Dunning about how he is the sole survivor of his fathers vicious murder of his entire family. Jakes friend, Al, tells Jake about a time portal in his diners storeroom and asks him to help him stop Kennedys assassination, Jake is filled with doubt it could work. Jake goes back in time and arrives in 1958 and decides to stop the murder of Harrys family first. Jake learns that the past doesnt want to be changed and it will fight back to deter Jake from his goals. Jake is told that every time he uses the portal to go back to the past, everything is reset to the way it originally happens. After a few practice attempts involving many stops and starts, Jake decides to stay in the past to stop Kennedys assassination. He finds himself in the small community of Jodie, Texas going by the alias of George Amberson and teaching high school. He meets and falls in love with Sadie Dunhill, the school librarian. Meanwhile the clock is ticking forward to the infamous date of 11/22/63 and Jake is torn between letting history play itself out or following through on his promise to Al.
I really enjoyed this story and the suspenseful build-up of events leading Jake to his date with destiny. The author gives us a close-up into the life of Lee Harvey Oswald and his wife. Life in Dallas and the surrounding area in the late 1950s-early 1960s is described with such detail, I got a very good sense of what it was like for Jake. I really loved the secondary characters, especially the people Jake meets in Jodie, Texas. I was torn as to whether or not Jake should continue with his mission or not. Loyal fans of Stephen King will also enjoy the references to his other work in this book.
I highly recommend this story if you enjoy books loaded with details and a storyline that sucks you in and keeps you guessing at the outcome. I thought the ending was very unexpected, but I wouldnt change anything about this story.
Helpful Score: 1
I absolutely LOVED this book! Even after 800+ pages I still didn't want it to end. Even though I had no idea how Stephen King could bring it to a close, the ending was just perfect. Looking back I don't know how it could have ended any differently.
Helpful Score: 1
Interesting idea, but not exactly what I thought the book would be. I was hoping for more information about the Kennedys and less about the Oswalds. I do enjoy time travel novels, and it has some interesting ideas. It will be interesting to see what Stephen King does next. I've read a lot of his older books, and this was somewhat of a departure, but a good one.
I have thought and thought about this...yes, it was a good listen while I cooked, cleaned, did crafty stuff in the house. It kept me company. I was listening to the lives of some friends, chuckling as they brought up a few memories from our far past. I got to know these people, inside and out, in a way that only King can accomplish. I've said many times, no one does characterization like Stephen King. That is usually why I love his loooong books. But even a character-driven story needs something to happen now and again, and in reality, except for meeting new people and a couple of beatings, nothing ever happened. Nothing.
The denoument of Kennedy/Oswald was so glossed over, so minor, that it shocked me that a whole 30 plus hour book was written about it. Not to spoil anything for others, but you who have read it will know who I mean....when there was the death of a major character, I didn't give a crap. I didn't much care how George/Jacob grieved. The only time I felt sad about it was when Deke, the old man, talked about it. And, if you must know, I am a total wimp when it comes to deaths and other griefs in books or movies. I will cry and think about these things for weeks.
Anyone who's taken writing courses or attended writing conferences knows the any author or editor will tell you, you can save a book with that hit them between the eyes beginning that will grab the reader, then you will make the reader always recall your book fondly if you give them an ending that is heartwrenching, in a good way or bad. Tender, sweet...memorable. And that is my very point about 11-22-63.
This book started off so well, a terrific premise. That last scene...it made the listen almost worth it. It was tender, so beautifully written, and in my case, so lovingly read, that I thought about it long after the story ended. I loved loved loved the ending.
Thus...this book seems far far better than it actually was for me. Like I said earlier...if it hadn't been Stephen King, I doubt it would have gotten past the first reader to an actual editor's desk for consideration.
The denoument of Kennedy/Oswald was so glossed over, so minor, that it shocked me that a whole 30 plus hour book was written about it. Not to spoil anything for others, but you who have read it will know who I mean....when there was the death of a major character, I didn't give a crap. I didn't much care how George/Jacob grieved. The only time I felt sad about it was when Deke, the old man, talked about it. And, if you must know, I am a total wimp when it comes to deaths and other griefs in books or movies. I will cry and think about these things for weeks.
Anyone who's taken writing courses or attended writing conferences knows the any author or editor will tell you, you can save a book with that hit them between the eyes beginning that will grab the reader, then you will make the reader always recall your book fondly if you give them an ending that is heartwrenching, in a good way or bad. Tender, sweet...memorable. And that is my very point about 11-22-63.
This book started off so well, a terrific premise. That last scene...it made the listen almost worth it. It was tender, so beautifully written, and in my case, so lovingly read, that I thought about it long after the story ended. I loved loved loved the ending.
Thus...this book seems far far better than it actually was for me. Like I said earlier...if it hadn't been Stephen King, I doubt it would have gotten past the first reader to an actual editor's desk for consideration.
I am most likely in the minority in my evaluation of this book....I gave up after 75 pages...I thought it was boring... I liked many of Steven Kings earlier books, but not this one..I could not even fathom plodding my way thru this missive.....
This was an exciting read - a love story, Sci-fi and suspense all rolled into one. I enjoyed the ups and downs of emotions from start to finish. Stephen King must have spent an enormous amount of time researching for this novel dealing with the Kennedy assassination. Seeing the results of one change in the past gives us insight into what might have been and lets us know that it is best to leave the past alone. Once I started reading, it was hard to put it down and I couldn't wait to see how it ended yet I didn't want it to end. While I wanted it to end differently, it actually had the perfect ending that left you feeling good.
I listened to this on Audible
---
Craig Wasson, first and foremost, did an unbelievable job with this story. He has himself a new fan in me.
Now, about the story. This is a long, long story with many many twists and turns and strong emotional punches. Grab some tissues, you'll need them. This is easily one of Kings best stories. Though I will admit that there is a lull in story about half way through. You start to think, alright already let's get it going. Power through it. Trust me. It is absolutely worth powering through that slow middle because what comes after is truly magical. The way this story ended will stick with me forever, that's how fucking good it was.
Buy this story.
Listen to this story.
Right now.
You'll be happy you did.
You can thank me later. ð
---
Craig Wasson, first and foremost, did an unbelievable job with this story. He has himself a new fan in me.
Now, about the story. This is a long, long story with many many twists and turns and strong emotional punches. Grab some tissues, you'll need them. This is easily one of Kings best stories. Though I will admit that there is a lull in story about half way through. You start to think, alright already let's get it going. Power through it. Trust me. It is absolutely worth powering through that slow middle because what comes after is truly magical. The way this story ended will stick with me forever, that's how fucking good it was.
Buy this story.
Listen to this story.
Right now.
You'll be happy you did.
You can thank me later. ð
I am a very big Stephen King fan and also a follower of the Kennedy assassination event, so I was super excited to read this book. It DID NOT disappoint!! I read this book every chance I got and wouldn't mind sitting down and reading it again.
An almost believable story or one that we would like to see happen if only... that's the question this story brings up, a what if and what consequences such a step back in time could alter the then future.A trek back to Derry Maine and finding the young kids who grew up in 'IT', clown and all.You'll turn pages as like a wind strips leaves from a fall tree.King's writing is mesmerizing and flows like a white water river.
This isnt a book review; its a love letter to Stephen King.
I read my first book by Stephen King when I was 11-years-old; the summer before 6th grade, 1992. I read It, and I dont remember a thing about reading it. Something tells me it was a little over a young girls head. I followed it up with Cycle of the Werewolf, which inspired me during the school year to write a short play based on the concept where all of the girls in my class that I disliked were killed by said werewolf. My 6th grade English teacher allowed a few of my friends and I to perform it for the class. As a side note, I also did a book report that year on Piers Paul Reads Alive; its a wonder to me now that that teacher didnt send me to the school counselor.
As anyone who is vaguely familiar with me knows, I am a book lover and have been an intrepid reader since the time I learned how. I read a lot. Last year, when I only completed 79 books (out of the 100 I had aimed for), I felt like a failure. I do not have a favorite author, or genre, and I will choose books based on their covers or on the flimsiest of recommendations. The way I see it, if someone has put their time and heart into writing something and then had the good fortune to get it published, it is probably worth a read. I certainly have never finished any stories Ive ever attempted to put to page, so I feel that if I even have the slightest bit of interest in what theyve written, I owe it to them to experience their art.
I have favorite books, to be sure. If pressed I will claim David Copperfield is my favorite book of all-time, but the truth is that it is just one of group of books that swim in my 5-star pond.
Not more than 30 minutes ago I finished reading 11/22/63 and by the last page (as I read the Afterword through tear-soaked eyeballs), I had redefined not only what a good story is, but also the concept of favorite book.
I love 11/22/63 because I am a lover of stories. I love being able to experience a part of another persons life. Stories are a window into a foreign soul and reading them is a way to open your eyes to how people are very different, and how people are often very much the same. The story of Jake Epping and George Amberson is the best representation of this that Ive seen, as it also illustrates how there are different versions of ourselves that lie dormant inside of us; it is often our environment and the people we encounter that causes these other versions to be freed.
I love 11/22/63 because I am a historian and a lover of history. (There are two very distinct things to be, and Im not sure you know the difference unless you are both.) Historians have been enthralled with the idea of what if? since the first historical record was put into print. If youve never looked up what if Germany won the war? or what if Hitler didnt die? I think youd be surprised at the enormous amount of theoretical writings that are available. This story uses its central character as a way to explore American history from not only the what if? context, but also from an incredibly interesting social history context. It is rare that anyone realizes they are in the midst of history while they are living it, but in this story our Jake/George knows that he is witnessing history before his eyes and oftentimes finds himself overwhelmed by the awe of it. Just imagine if we could all see our present with that kind of clarity?
I love 11/22/63 because I love love. Its not something Ive been very good at in my life, but it is something Ive experienced on a handful of occasions. Jake writes But I believe in love, you know; love is a uniquely portable magic. I dont think its in the stars, but I do believe that blood calls to blood and mind calls to mind and heart to heart. There are a lot of arguments out there for the different kinds of love, and the importance of lasting love and the heartache of unrequited love, but nothing has ever seemed as true to me as Jakes understanding of how to find, and recognize, love.
I love 11/22/63 because I know that if someone asked me what did you like so much about it? I would never be able to answer their question to satisfaction. As I sit here, thinking of how to end this, I find myself placing my left hand upon the cover, as if it were the Good Book and I was being sworn to testify. Its a book about a man going back in time to stop President Kennedy from being assassinated is a justifiable way of introducing it to another person, but its really not what this book is about at all. Thats like saying Donnie Darko is about a kid that hallucinates a rabbit or The Picture of Dorian Gray is about a phantom painting.
I love 11/22/63 because Ive never had an experience where Ive said Eight hundred and forty-nine pages was not enough. It wasnt. Not nearly.
I read my first book by Stephen King when I was 11-years-old; the summer before 6th grade, 1992. I read It, and I dont remember a thing about reading it. Something tells me it was a little over a young girls head. I followed it up with Cycle of the Werewolf, which inspired me during the school year to write a short play based on the concept where all of the girls in my class that I disliked were killed by said werewolf. My 6th grade English teacher allowed a few of my friends and I to perform it for the class. As a side note, I also did a book report that year on Piers Paul Reads Alive; its a wonder to me now that that teacher didnt send me to the school counselor.
As anyone who is vaguely familiar with me knows, I am a book lover and have been an intrepid reader since the time I learned how. I read a lot. Last year, when I only completed 79 books (out of the 100 I had aimed for), I felt like a failure. I do not have a favorite author, or genre, and I will choose books based on their covers or on the flimsiest of recommendations. The way I see it, if someone has put their time and heart into writing something and then had the good fortune to get it published, it is probably worth a read. I certainly have never finished any stories Ive ever attempted to put to page, so I feel that if I even have the slightest bit of interest in what theyve written, I owe it to them to experience their art.
I have favorite books, to be sure. If pressed I will claim David Copperfield is my favorite book of all-time, but the truth is that it is just one of group of books that swim in my 5-star pond.
Not more than 30 minutes ago I finished reading 11/22/63 and by the last page (as I read the Afterword through tear-soaked eyeballs), I had redefined not only what a good story is, but also the concept of favorite book.
I love 11/22/63 because I am a lover of stories. I love being able to experience a part of another persons life. Stories are a window into a foreign soul and reading them is a way to open your eyes to how people are very different, and how people are often very much the same. The story of Jake Epping and George Amberson is the best representation of this that Ive seen, as it also illustrates how there are different versions of ourselves that lie dormant inside of us; it is often our environment and the people we encounter that causes these other versions to be freed.
I love 11/22/63 because I am a historian and a lover of history. (There are two very distinct things to be, and Im not sure you know the difference unless you are both.) Historians have been enthralled with the idea of what if? since the first historical record was put into print. If youve never looked up what if Germany won the war? or what if Hitler didnt die? I think youd be surprised at the enormous amount of theoretical writings that are available. This story uses its central character as a way to explore American history from not only the what if? context, but also from an incredibly interesting social history context. It is rare that anyone realizes they are in the midst of history while they are living it, but in this story our Jake/George knows that he is witnessing history before his eyes and oftentimes finds himself overwhelmed by the awe of it. Just imagine if we could all see our present with that kind of clarity?
I love 11/22/63 because I love love. Its not something Ive been very good at in my life, but it is something Ive experienced on a handful of occasions. Jake writes But I believe in love, you know; love is a uniquely portable magic. I dont think its in the stars, but I do believe that blood calls to blood and mind calls to mind and heart to heart. There are a lot of arguments out there for the different kinds of love, and the importance of lasting love and the heartache of unrequited love, but nothing has ever seemed as true to me as Jakes understanding of how to find, and recognize, love.
I love 11/22/63 because I know that if someone asked me what did you like so much about it? I would never be able to answer their question to satisfaction. As I sit here, thinking of how to end this, I find myself placing my left hand upon the cover, as if it were the Good Book and I was being sworn to testify. Its a book about a man going back in time to stop President Kennedy from being assassinated is a justifiable way of introducing it to another person, but its really not what this book is about at all. Thats like saying Donnie Darko is about a kid that hallucinates a rabbit or The Picture of Dorian Gray is about a phantom painting.
I love 11/22/63 because Ive never had an experience where Ive said Eight hundred and forty-nine pages was not enough. It wasnt. Not nearly.
I LOVED this book!! I'm not even a "die hard" Stephen King person. I have absolute respect for him as a successful author - no doubt - I just don't get everything that he does. I've enjoyed some of his work though, I even made it through "Under The Dome", which I thought was okay. It was good enough to get me through all 1,088 pages but I wasn't super excited about it.
I loved 11/22/63 though. It really makes you wonder what life would be like if one thing had or hadn't happened. There are so many of those "watershed moments" in all of our lives, some affect a smaller circle of us, some affect the entire nation and spread to the rest of the world like the assassination of John F. Kennedy and 9/11. We immediately think if only those things didn't happen, life would be great, but would it? What would you do if you had the power to change fate? Would it really make things better or worse if things didn't follow the way they are meant to be?
This is really a GREAT book for a book club. You can really get into some wonderful, deep discussions. Books that get you thinking and talking afterwards. Love that!!
I loved 11/22/63 though. It really makes you wonder what life would be like if one thing had or hadn't happened. There are so many of those "watershed moments" in all of our lives, some affect a smaller circle of us, some affect the entire nation and spread to the rest of the world like the assassination of John F. Kennedy and 9/11. We immediately think if only those things didn't happen, life would be great, but would it? What would you do if you had the power to change fate? Would it really make things better or worse if things didn't follow the way they are meant to be?
This is really a GREAT book for a book club. You can really get into some wonderful, deep discussions. Books that get you thinking and talking afterwards. Love that!!
Schoolteacher Jake Epping is about to learn to most stunning secret ever. After being summoned to Al Diner he is told of a portal aka the rabbit hole that will take him back to 1958. Als lifetime obsession is to prevent that assassination of John F. Kennedy and he has compiled a book full of Lee Harvey Oswalds movements up but he is missing the keydid he act alone or not. Now cancer has taken the opportunity for Al to find out and he must confide in one man who is young enough, smart enough and doesnt have many ties to go back thru the portal and hang around until 1963 to find out and possibly stop Oswald from committing the assassination. Als time is short and he needs Jake to believe him so he sends him thru to test the waters. Jake does have one thing he would like to change about what happened to one of his adult students, coincidentally, in 1958, and decides to test the rabbit hole. Even after somewhat successfully achieving his goal and coming back, Jake is hesitant but Al does something to force his hand and Jake has no choice but to head back under his fake identity that Al created for him, George.
Having to wait around until 1963, Jake/George starts to become bored and wants to teach again and begins to form attachments to some very interesting characters all of which he was warned not to do. Each new character ends up playing an intricate part in what he came to do. 11/22/63 wouldnt be the novel it is without all the trials that Jake/George endures during his time in the past. The reader becomes deeply invested and wish for a happy outcome even though fate has another idea on what is to become of those that meddle with the future. History does not like change and even though Al warned Jake/George about this, it still takes all of us by surprise.
I loved every page of this 842 page novel. King had me quickly flipping pages to find out what happens next and then he left me raw and broken at the end. The time travel aspect is real basic. The portal takes the person to the same day every time and each time you enter it will reset all that was changed that last time someone went through. Though you may be gone for months or years, in your future time you are only gone 2 minutes. The blending of fact and fiction is one of Kings strengths and it is showcased brilliantly in this remarkable read. If you enjoyed Under to Dome you will love what King has in store for you in 11/22/63.
Having to wait around until 1963, Jake/George starts to become bored and wants to teach again and begins to form attachments to some very interesting characters all of which he was warned not to do. Each new character ends up playing an intricate part in what he came to do. 11/22/63 wouldnt be the novel it is without all the trials that Jake/George endures during his time in the past. The reader becomes deeply invested and wish for a happy outcome even though fate has another idea on what is to become of those that meddle with the future. History does not like change and even though Al warned Jake/George about this, it still takes all of us by surprise.
I loved every page of this 842 page novel. King had me quickly flipping pages to find out what happens next and then he left me raw and broken at the end. The time travel aspect is real basic. The portal takes the person to the same day every time and each time you enter it will reset all that was changed that last time someone went through. Though you may be gone for months or years, in your future time you are only gone 2 minutes. The blending of fact and fiction is one of Kings strengths and it is showcased brilliantly in this remarkable read. If you enjoyed Under to Dome you will love what King has in store for you in 11/22/63.
Interesting historical fiction book by Stephen King about a man who goes back in time to try and stop the assassination of President Kennedy. The Good: It is well-researched and the reader really feels transported back to life in America in the late 1950s/early 1960s. I liked reading about George/Jake's life in Jodie, Texas and his romance with Sadie. King is a good storyteller. The Bad: At more than 800 pages, the novel is bloated. It could have been tighter, without any loss to the story.
My reviews are very brief. I either like a book or I don't. I bought this one because I love Stephen King. But I have to say, I did not like this book at all. He took a very national tragedy and while the potential was there to create a very interesting twist, he didn't. Instead, he chose to weave a cheap love story between the main character and narrator and his beloved "Sadie". Boring. Couldn't wait for it to end. sorry, this one was a true bust for me. Stephen - don't do love stories, do twisted. That is what I (maybe not all) expect of you.
SciFi/ Historical Fiction. * * *. An aging Diner owner entrusts to a middle aged teacher the secret of a time portal located in his Diner in the hopes that the teacher may finish a job the aging owner was too sick to finish himself: travel back in time and stop the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. At least thats what the book jacket says. That summary is really the backstory; the motivation, if you will, that propels that protagonist's actions.
Jake Epping establishes a second life in the past as he awaits the day he must act. As time passes, critical decisions must be made; decisons that, ironically, were unforeseen; such as, HIS future in the past. The book really asks: Can you live in the past when you know what the future holds?
The book could have been about two hundred pages shorter. Jake takes an initial jaunt as "practice" that really don't affect the rest of the story, if only to establish how the hidden time portal works.
Without divulging whether or not Jake succeeds in his mission, I will say that King's use of time teleportation and its butterfly effects add realism to the conclusion.
Jake Epping establishes a second life in the past as he awaits the day he must act. As time passes, critical decisions must be made; decisons that, ironically, were unforeseen; such as, HIS future in the past. The book really asks: Can you live in the past when you know what the future holds?
The book could have been about two hundred pages shorter. Jake takes an initial jaunt as "practice" that really don't affect the rest of the story, if only to establish how the hidden time portal works.
Without divulging whether or not Jake succeeds in his mission, I will say that King's use of time teleportation and its butterfly effects add realism to the conclusion.
I am not a Stephen King fan, but there was so much hype about this book I just had to read it,since I won it in a swap. I found that once started, I couldn't wait to pick it up again and read all 850 pages in only 3 days. Don't let the size of the book intimidate you. I loved it, thought it was fastinating and I highly recommend it.
My first ever Stephen King novel and can't believe how much I enjoyed this story. Cleverly written, a page turner. Carried it everywhere despite its size in case the opportunity presented itself as a reading moment!
Excellent!!
Sorry the book ended. It was hard to put down but after some chapters you had to because it was so intense. Its one that I could pick right back up and read again immediately!
Oh and the ending - holy moly! From page 782 on...DON'T plan on doing anything else.
Consider it a word of advice from one book lover to another.
I'm also sorry to say that I just have to keep this book. Buy yourself a copy, it'll be worth it.
The characters are extremely well fleshed out and you feel for them all, including a few of the ones you don't think you ever would feel anything but contempt.
Sorry the book ended. It was hard to put down but after some chapters you had to because it was so intense. Its one that I could pick right back up and read again immediately!
Oh and the ending - holy moly! From page 782 on...DON'T plan on doing anything else.
Consider it a word of advice from one book lover to another.
I'm also sorry to say that I just have to keep this book. Buy yourself a copy, it'll be worth it.
The characters are extremely well fleshed out and you feel for them all, including a few of the ones you don't think you ever would feel anything but contempt.
Well written and interesting although if you think about it too closely it all falls apart. Plus, as usual, King pads the story with tons of extraneous crap that doesn't move the story along. Probably more interesting if you are old enough to have experienced 11/22/63 itself.
I really liked this book. I could relate to so many things in those 50's days. Great love story and loved the way King pulled it all together. Great Stephen king book...
Excellent. True King. Couldn't put it down.
long, but goes fast. my husband and i were hooked!
Story of a guy that tries to time travel back to 1963 to prevent Kennedy's assassination. Book is a fast read with not too many slow parts, but still too long at 1000 pages. OK story with some interesting ideas about time travel.
Being too lazy to read the whole thing, I tried to read just the last few pages, but that doesn't do any good in these darn Stephen King books.
I am glad that I have finished this book. I don't feel like I am time traveling. It is now 2015 and I am back. It doesn't end how I thought it would.
I never received this book & the member who sent it credited me.
this book has a little wear but no tear. all pages are there and the spine is in good shape.
as for the content-mind blowing.
as for the content-mind blowing.
This book is no longer available by poster.
