Reviews with content warning for Cursing - Pet Sematary

I listened to the 2018 audiobook narrated by Michael C. Hall, and it was outstanding. The 1989 original movie is one of the most iconic horror movies of my generation. Although I haven't watched the movie in a long time, I can remember in detail the story frame by frame because it scared me immensely as a kid. The book is perhaps my favorite King I have read thus far (the list I've read is short). Just a masterpiece although it doesn't pass my test which is challenging King to write a story that doesn't mention a woman's breasts/nipples in a creeper sort of way at least once. I had no idea King wrote this based on an experience he had where his young son waa almost hit by a large truck in the road by their home. In his author's note, King remarks that this story of "what if?" is the scariest story he has ever written. Michael C. Hall does an incredible job narrating and his Jud Crandall voice at times made me think Fred Gwynne was going to crawl out of my headphones. Now I can't wait to re-watch the movies. Perfect book for October!

Content Warnings

amiegold's review against another edition

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dark sad tense slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

Oh man, what a ride. I think this is the best portrayal of death and grieving that I have ever read. King explores different kinds of death, as well as different reactions to it. He even touches on different religions and views of death. His portrayal of a funeral hit spot on.

And in all reality, if most people had a chance to bring someone they loved back from the dead, especially in those painful first days, wouldn't they give anything to do it?

I didn’t love the condescending way Louis treats Rachel, even if it’s coming from a good place.

Content Warnings

our_bookish_reads's review against another edition

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dark emotional mysterious sad tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

It has been well over 15 years since I last read Pet Sematary and I am so happy I got to read it again. I had forgotten so much about this book and how much I actually love it. This has to be one of the few books that SK wrote that isn't long-winded and drones on the whole time. Don't get me wrong, there were some parts where this fid happen, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. There's such a creepy and great atmosphere, and the pacing is just perfect. I must admit, I think some parts went by too fast while other parts (that I personally didn't think mattered much) were lingered on. You can bet that I will read this again. Oh yes, I will read this again.

Content Warnings