The Shining

by Stephen King
The Shining cover
Good Books rating 4.4
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: 2025-10-09
  • ISBN: 9781848940994
  • Publisher: Hachette UK
  • Published: 2007-05-31
  • Formats: 19
  • Reviews: 3

Danny Torrance, a five-year-old boy with psychic powers, moves to the Overlook Hotel with his parents after his father takes a job as the hotel's caretaker. As the harsh winter isolates them, Danny's visions intensify, and the hotel's dark forces begin to manifest. The hotel, with its eerie corridors and mysterious Room 217, seems to have a malevolent life of its own. The Overlook Hotel holds a dark history, and its sinister energy awakens as the Torrances are trapped. Danny's visions grow more disturbing, and the hotel's supernatural inhabitants become more active. The line between reality and nightmare blurs, and the family faces an ancient evil that threatens to consume them all.

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.

The Guardian · 2012-06-22
great 4.00

The book was loved upon first reading at 13 and remains tense and atmospheric. The film adaptation is also noted for its impact.

The reviewer shares a personal connection to the book, having loved it since first reading it at 13. They highlight its tense and atmospheric qualities, which make it a compelling read. The reviewer also notes the impact of Stanley Kubrick's film adaptation, which adds another layer of interest to the book. Overall, the book is seen as a timeless piece of literature that continues to captivate readers.

Quick quotes

    I first read the book when I was 13, and loved it. It wasn't scary per se; it was tense and atmospheric.

    The Shining is a novel that transcends its genre, offering a deep exploration of the human psyche.

    Kubrick's film adaptation is a testament to the book's enduring appeal.

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