This is one of those anthologies that successfully manages to balance its stories to the point where all of them are good, some to a greater or lesser extent, but I don't think there is a single bad one. Honestly, I hadn't delved much into King's anthologies, despite being one of my favorite authors. I prefer his novels, however, this collection of stories left me terrified and very satisfied. There are stories that I think are completely iconic, and it was a pleasure to read them.

Soon I will do a review on my channel telling which were my favorite stories, in case you like to check it out: https://www.youtube.com/coosburton.

This anthology offers a diverse range of tales that showcase King's remarkable storytelling skills. Each story has its own unique charm and atmosphere, drawing the reader in and keeping them on the edge of their seat. Some of the stories are truly spine-tingling, while others are more thought-provoking.

Whether you are a die-hard King fan or new to his work, this anthology is definitely worth checking out. It provides a great introduction to his short story writing and is sure to leave you wanting more. So, head on over to my channel and find out which stories made my list of favorites!

This is Stephen King's first short story collection. It encompasses 20 stories that were initially published between 1964 and 1977, along with a couple of previously unpublished works.

I discovered this book to be an extremely good and spooky collection. I would gladly reread it around Halloween. Some of the stories were downright creepy, such as "Gray Matter," "Sometimes They Come Back," and "Children of the Corn." Others were quite funny, like "Battleground" and "The Ledge." And a few were actually emotional, like "The Woman in the Room."

To consider that he penned these stories in the 70s and I had the pleasure of reading them all for the first time in 2023 is rather astonishing.

➤ "What waits under my bed to grab my ankle doesn't exist. I know that. And I also know that if I'm careful to keep my foot under the sheets it can never grab my ankle..."

This is Stephen King's first collection of short stories, and it really feels like a classic. Right from that preface with its blend of humor and reflection, it caught my attention. So, really, is it necessary to clarify that I liked the rest of it quite a bit? As a book itself, I love its concept. Stories based on those unfounded fears, of elements that we know don't exist but still make us cautious.

The novel includes, no more and no less than, TWENTY STORIES. So it's logical that the first concept that comes to my mind is variety. Obviously, there are differences between each story that develop preferences: some are brilliant and rereadable, and others are forgettable and avoidable. Surprisingly, most of the stories seemed solid and interesting to me. Each one is very different from the others and deals with different everyday fears: from the most fanciful and unreal (like "I'm the Door" and "Trucks") to the most real (like "The Woman in the Room" and "Graveyard Shift").

Another thing I liked were the endings. For the most part, they were very well done, ingenious, concrete, and open. "The Man Who Loved Flowers", "Battlefield", "The Ledge", "I'm the Door", etc., are some examples.

Literalmente, after all these stories, I'm afraid of everything. That is, is there really anything that doesn't scare me? I'll try to stay away from closets... rats... vehicles... mansions... towns... cornfields... toys... fog... aliens... machines... beers... gardeners... stairs and... well, I think it's understood, I need therapy (...) Although now that I think about it, there's also a story about treatments and their dark methods...

Next, my ranking of the stories from best to worst, and their approximate rating from 1 to 5 stars:

OBSESSED WITH THESE

1. I'm the Door (5)
2. The Ledge (5)
3. Children of the Corn (5)
4. Graveyard Shift (5)

VERY GOOD / ENJOYABLE

5. The Lawnmower Man (4.5)
6. I Know What You Need (4.5)
7. The Man Who Loved Flowers (4.5)
8. Battlefield (4.5)
9. The Last Rung on the Ladder (4)
10. Trucks (4)
11. Strawberry Spring (4)
12. The Mangler (4)
13. The Last Shift (4)

HAVE THEIR STRONG POINTS

14. Sometimes They Come Back (3.5)
15. The Mystery of the Cat (3)
16. One for the Road (3)
17. The Woman in the Room (3)
18. Gray Matter (3)

DIDN'T CONVINCE ME

19. Night Surf (2)
20. The Man in the Black Suit (1.5)

Let's talk, you and I. Let's talk about fear.

Night Shift was Stephen King's first short story collection, released way back in 1978. It contains quite a number of his more popular short stories that eventually became movies. Prime examples are Children of the Corn and Sometimes They Come Back.

King is often regarded as the master of the short story. Before reading this collection, I had only read Nightmares & Dreamscapes and The Bazaar of Bad Dreams. I really enjoyed them, but I found it strange when people would comment like "Oh it was good, but it was disappointing compared to earlier ones." Well, now I understand, guys! Now I get it. You can truly feel King's eagerness for storytelling throughout the entire collection. Given that these stories were written at the very beginning of his career, the material is all so fresh with absolutely amazing and outrageous ideas.

I should disclose that I'm not a huge fan of short stories. I desire to lose myself in a story with the continuous development of the plot and its characters. I want to know my main characters inside out. I want to spend days or weeks thinking about the story and the characters and where it's all heading, with the anticipation of getting into bed each night to see what happens next. You don't get this with short stories - they're short by nature. You often don't find out what happens or why. There are cliffhangers that are never explored again. There isn't the same impetus to keep reading, and it can take me longer than usual to finish a short story collection. However, Night Shift has completely transformed my perspective on short story collections. I was thinking about the book all day, but instead wondering what crazy story King has coming next. I did have the same urge to keep reading. Some characters were memorable, even though I only got to know them for about 30 pages. This collection was simply extraordinary.

I almost don't know where to begin reviewing this book, but I guess I can start with my absolute favorites in the collection. I can honestly say that there wasn't a bad story in this entire collection. The highly anticipated Children of the Corn was as impressive as I imagined and is probably the greatest highlight for me. It was creepy, unsettling, and even more terrifying than I could have predicted! Sometimes They Come Back was also a great story, along with I Am The Doorway, The Mangler, Grey Matter, The Lawnmower Man... okay, I think I'm actually starting to list every single story in the book.

The Last Rung on the Ladder was also surprisingly emotional and almost brought a tear to my eye. Only King could elicit such a reaction in such a short story. I had previously read One for the Road as it was included in my edition of 'Salem's Lot, but it was great to read this story again. The only problem is... it makes me want to revisit 'Salem's Lot!!

Some stories were downright hilarious and a joy to read, such as Battleground and The Ledge. It's difficult to even identify my least favorite, but if I had to choose, I'd probably pick The Man Who Loved Flowers - but even then, I really enjoyed this story. It's unusual to not be able to find a flaw in a short story collection, but I've tried and I literally can't.

Definitely my top SK short story collection so far!

2024: king from the beginning. 4 stars on reread

These are short stories that, while not truly novellas, serve as delicious introductions to popular King mythologies. For example, look at all the movies made from about eight of these tales. King is at his most bizarre and morbid here. Most of his part-time heroes and a few heroines end up dead or suffering the loss of a child, wife, or mother. Sometimes one story seems to blend into another by motif, like corn, rats, snow, death machines, or death. The editing is masterful. The most avant-garde stories bookend it nicely, and it even references 'Salem's Lot, a book I still need to read. There are comical undertones and some misogynist parts. I love how un-Stephen King this is, especially for someone who is usually satisfied with around 78% of his work.

It's interesting to see King explore different themes and styles in these short stories. Some of the stories are truly creepy, while others have a more humorous or satirical tone. The use of motifs to connect the stories gives the collection a sense of unity and coherence.

Overall, this is a great collection of short stories that will appeal to both fans of King and those who are new to his work. It's a must-read for anyone who loves horror, mystery, or the supernatural.

I am not a regular reader of this genre, but this collection of stories has really charmed me. They are very diverse in theme and quite enjoyable. I will read more from this gentleman, as I have read very little of his works so far!

Each story in this compilation offers a unique perspective and takes the reader on a different journey. Some are filled with mystery and suspense, while others are more light-hearted and humorous. The author's writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making it a pleasure to read.

Even though I am not typically drawn to this genre, I found myself thoroughly immersed in these stories. It just goes to show that good writing can transcend genre boundaries and appeal to a wide range of readers. I am looking forward to exploring more of this author's works and seeing what other wonderful stories he has to offer.

Night Shift remains the best collection of short stories by King. I haven't read "You like it Darker" yet, but it has received really good reviews.

The quality of the stories in Night Shift is uneven. Some of them are rather weak and seem like outlines for future novels and novellas. Others feel rushed and too short, perhaps because King really needed the money at that time and thus tried to maximize his income. There are also some stories that are completely bizarre, while others have a calmer tone and are emotionally rich. Overall, it is a great read by the young King who was still honing his skills and didn't have the luxury of writing just for pleasure, as he could after becoming famous.

Here is the list of my favorites in the collection, in printing order: Jerusalem's Lot, I am the Doorway, The Boogeyman, Trucks, Sometimes they come back, The Ledge, Quitters Inc., Children of the Corn, The Last Rung on the Ladder, One for the Road.

There is truly something for everyone in this collection. It includes pure horror, suspense, a Twilight Zone-like atmosphere, completely bizarre gore, witchcraft and voodoo stuff... You name it!

I have been returning to this collection every couple of years and always enjoy it immensely. It has been 20 years now, and there is always a slightly different feeling about each and every story. Amazing stuff!

Larry, a highly successful company lawyer, often recalls an incident from his childhood.

One day, while he and his sister Kitty were playing in a barn, the rung of the old ladder broke. In a split second, Larry showed great presence of mind and saved his little sister by putting up hay around the ladder.

However, as the years passed, the siblings gradually lost touch with each other. Larry always had the desire to write to Kitty, but her life had taken a difficult turn with a divorce.

They didn't see each other for many long years. Now, Larry and his father are sitting on a plane, on their way to see Kitty. The reason for this reunion is a very sad one.

This story is truly captivating, filled with childhood memories, the impact of life's circumstances, and the separation of lives. It is a very melancholic tale, rich in detail and philosophical allusions. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a story that touches the heart and makes them reflect on the passage of time and the importance of family.

I usually don't have a penchant for reading short stories. However, Stephen King is the exception that completely changes my perspective. There are two of his short stories that I hold dear.

One is "Jerusalem's Lot." This particular story is especially significant to me as it serves as an introduction to one of my all-time favorite books by Mr. King, which is, of course, also titled "Jerusalem's Lot." It gives a tantalizing preview and sets the stage for the larger and more complex narrative that unfolds in the full-length book.

The other short story I love is "Children Of The Corn." It has a unique and creepy atmosphere that grabs hold of the reader from the very beginning. The premise of children gone wrong and the eerie events that take place in a small town make it a truly captivating read.

Stephen King's short stories have the power to draw me in and leave a lasting impression, even though I'm not typically a fan of this genre.

Read for my Halloween Reading Vlog. In this vlog, I will be sharing my thoughts and opinions on all the spooky stories I have read. The full review of each story can be found here: https://youtu.be/J3kChxHRsfs.

These stories have been carefully selected to get you in the Halloween spirit. From haunted houses to creepy creatures, there is something for everyone. I will be discussing the plot, characters, and overall atmosphere of each story.

A written review will also be coming soon, so stay tuned! In the meantime, enjoy the vlog and let me know which story was your favorite in the comments below.

No one probably wants or needs my rambling thoughts on each story. But selfishly, I want to go back and remember what I’ve read, so that's what I'm doing.

Jerusalem’s Lot
This story features an unreliable narrator, with a slight nod to Shirley Jackson and a touch of the 1990 Tremors movie.

It has given birth to 18 movies, and everyone has a favorite story from this collection. For me, it's "Gray Matter".

It contains King's first professionally published story, which is "Graveyard Shift", and one of his most beautiful ones, namely "The Woman in the Room".

It is rock solid, and it's really hard to hate.

This collection is truly remarkable, with each story having its own unique charm and allure. Whether it's the creepy atmosphere of "Gray Matter", the intense horror of "Graveyard Shift", or the touching and poignant nature of "The Woman in the Room", there is something for everyone to enjoy.

If you want to read more about my Great Stephen King Reread, you can click on the link provided: Read more over at my Great Stephen King Reread.