Stephen King on ‘Hansel and Gretel’ and the future of his writing career

In this iconic children's book, Max, dressed in his wolf suit, causes chaos at home and is sent to bed without supper. His bedroom transforms into a jungle, and he sails to an island where he encounters the Wild Things. Max tames the creatures and becomes their king, but eventually returns home, missing his mother's love. The book is praised for its honest treatment of children's emotions, particularly anger and the need for parental love. It has been adapted into a movie and an opera and remains a beloved classic in children's literature.

Stephen King's "Never Flinch" features intertwining storylines centered around a killer seeking revenge and a vigilante targeting a feminist activist. Detective Izzy Janes investigates a threatening letter promising 14 killings, enlisting the help of Holly Gibney. Meanwhile, activist Kate McKay faces threats during her lecture tour, leading to Holly's role as her bodyguard. The narratives converge in a thrilling conclusion, showcasing King's storytelling prowess. The novel explores themes of justice, retribution, and the complexities of human nature.

The story of 'Hansel and Gretel' tells the tale of two siblings abandoned in a forest by their parents during a time of famine. The children use their ingenuity to find their way back home after being left twice. They encounter a witch who lives in a house made of gingerbread and candy, but they outsmart her and ultimately return home to find their stepmother dead and their father welcoming them back. The story is rooted in historical events such as the Great Famine of 1315-1317 in Europe and reflects the harsh realities of survival during such times.

In 'Salem's Lot, writer Ben Mears returns to his childhood hometown of Jerusalem's Lot, Maine, to write a book about the Marsten House, a place that has haunted him since childhood. However, he soon discovers that the town is being taken over by vampires, led by the ancient and powerful Kurt Barlow. Along with a small group of allies, including high school teacher Matt Burke, doctor Jimmy Cody, and young Mark Petrie, Ben must confront the supernatural forces threatening the town. The novel explores themes of evil, faith, and the struggle against overwhelming horror, culminating in a desperate battle to save the town from the vampires.

While detailed plot information is not available, Christobel Mattingley's works often focused on themes relevant to children, such as personal growth, social issues, and environmental concerns. 'The Long Walk' likely follows this pattern, offering a story that resonates with young readers.

Set in Chamberlain, Maine, 'Carrie' by Stephen King tells the story of Carietta 'Carrie' White, a 16-year-old girl who is ridiculed and bullied by her peers and abused by her ultra-religious mother, Margaret. Carrie discovers she has telekinetic powers after a humiliating incident in the school locker room where she gets her first period. The story unfolds through multiple narratives, including newspaper reports, court transcripts, and personal memoirs, detailing Carrie's transformation from a shy and isolated girl to a force of vengeance. After being humiliated at the school prom, Carrie unleashes her powers, causing widespread destruction and death in the town. The novel explores themes of ostracism, bullying, and the psychological trauma experienced by its characters.