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A review by pagingdrmudkip
Joyland by Stephen King
emotional
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
The last good time always comes. I’m still seething about the idea that a story about a down on his luck young man, recently dumped, spending his summer as a carnival worker, evoked emotions of mortality, grief, and hope.
Say what you want about King, but the man is a master of painting genuine human emotion, particularly in children. Maybe it is because of the similar nature of feeling lost, like the main character, but I am profoundly connected to this story.
While not full blown horror at its core, the supernatural still manages to squeeze itself in into Joyland, giving you just enough to satiate your spirits.
If you’re any fan of mysteries or appetizer-level ghost stories, I implore you to give this one a shot. While it may not be considered King’s “best”, it certainly is up there for me.
Say what you want about King, but the man is a master of painting genuine human emotion, particularly in children. Maybe it is because of the similar nature of feeling lost, like the main character, but I am profoundly connected to this story.
While not full blown horror at its core, the supernatural still manages to squeeze itself in into Joyland, giving you just enough to satiate your spirits.
If you’re any fan of mysteries or appetizer-level ghost stories, I implore you to give this one a shot. While it may not be considered King’s “best”, it certainly is up there for me.