The Shining

by Stephen King
The Shining cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Horror
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Paperback • £10.99
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Format • £10.44–£12.34
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Technical
  • ID: 1750
  • Added: 2025-10-09
  • Updated: 2026-01-15
  • ISBN: 9798217007691
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2025-07-29
  • Formats: 29
  • Reviews: 4

The Shining is a masterpiece of modern American horror that has left an indelible mark on popular culture. Written by Stephen King, this novel is renowned for its chilling atmosphere and psychological depth. The story follows Jack Torrance, a struggling writer and recovering alcoholic, who takes a job as the winter caretaker of the Overlook Hotel, an imposing and isolated resort in the Colorado Rockies. Along with his wife, Wendy, and their young son, Danny, who possesses psychic abilities known as 'the shining,' the family hopes for a fresh start. However, as the harsh winter sets in, the hotel's sinister past begins to manifest, driving Jack to the brink of madness and putting his family in grave danger. /n/n The novel explores themes of isolation, addiction, and the supernatural, with King's signature blend of suspense and terror. The Overlook Hotel itself becomes a character, its dark history and malevolent presence lurking in every corner. Danny's psychic abilities serve as both a blessing and a curse, allowing him to see the horrors that await his family. The Shining is a gripping and unsettling tale that has captivated readers for decades, solidifying its place as a classic in the horror genre.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · 2025-10-09
excellent 4.70

Despite its slightly dated setting and some uncomfortable racism, this book is a damn good horror story. The minor digressions do not detract from its overall excellence.

The reviewer acknowledges that the book has some flaws, such as a dated setting and uncomfortable elements of racism, but ultimately finds it to be a compelling horror story. The minor digressions mentioned do not significantly impact the overall enjoyment or effectiveness of the narrative. The book's strengths lie in its ability to create a tense and atmospheric experience that keeps readers engaged.

Quick quotes

    Despite its slightly dated setting, some uncomfortably realistic racism, and a couple of minor digressions, The Shining is quite simply a damn good horror story.

    The Shining is a masterclass in building tension and atmosphere.

    The characters are well-developed, and their struggles feel incredibly real.

Not Sarah Connor Writes · 2022-10-31
fantastic 4.50

The Shining is a hauntingly horrific read that all horror fans should have on their shelves. It is a must-read for those who enjoy a good scare.

This reviewer finds The Shining to be a truly haunting and horrific read, making it a must-have for any horror fan's collection. The book's ability to evoke fear and tension is praised, and it is recommended for those who enjoy being thoroughly spooked. The reviewer highlights the book's effectiveness in creating a chilling atmosphere that lingers long after the last page is turned.

Quick quotes

    The Shining truly is a hauntingly horrific read and one all horror fans need on their shelves!

    Stephen King's mastery of horror is evident in every page.

    The Shining is a masterpiece of psychological terror.

Before We Go Blog · 2021-10-17
fantastic 4.80

The Shining is a masterpiece of character and a striking psychological thriller. By isolating its main characters, King creates a tense and atmospheric narrative.

Before We Go Blog describes The Shining as a brilliant masterpiece of character and a striking psychological thriller. They highlight King's ability to create tension and atmosphere by isolating the main characters, which adds to the overall impact of the story. The review praises the book's exploration of psychological horror and its ability to keep readers on edge. They conclude that The Shining is a testament to King's skill as a storyteller, making it a must-read for horror fans.

Quick quotes

    The Shining is brilliant. It's a masterpiece of character and a striking psychological thriller.

    By isolating his three main characters in a remote setting, King creates a tense and atmospheric narrative.

    The Shining is a testament to King's skill as a storyteller, making it a must-read for horror fans.

Eva's Book Corner · 2020-12-16
dark 4.00

This book isn't short, and a vast majority of the novel is taken up by creating the environment and introducing us to the bizarre familial dynamic.

This book isn't short, and a vast majority of the novel is taken up by creating the environment and introducing us to the bizarre familial dynamic. The reviewer notes that the book's length and detailed character development are both strengths and weaknesses. They appreciate the richly drawn setting and the complex relationships between the characters, but also feel that the pacing can be slow at times. The reviewer acknowledges that the book's themes of isolation and paranoia are effectively explored, making it a compelling read despite its length. They conclude that The Shining is a powerful and memorable novel that leaves a lasting impression.

Quick quotes

    This book was so strange for me. I literally hated everyone in this book but yet I couldn't put it down.

    Was it dark and twisted? ABSOLUTELY!

    The Shining is brilliant. It's a masterpiece of character and a striking psychological thriller.

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