The Stand is a post-apocalyptic horror-fantasy in which a rapidly mutating strain of flu that had been modified for biological warfare is accidentally released from a secure facility, causing a pandemic that wipes out over 99% of the world's population.

The book has two alternate endings. The first appeared in the original 800-page version of 1978 when the publishers couldn’t physically print a manuscript any larger. But in 1991, King’s full, uncut version was released, giving fans even more to get their teeth into.

One thing’s for sure, whichever iteration you read, it’s a long time to be on the edge of your seat.