Different Seasons

by Stephen King
Different Seasons cover
Good Books rating 4.25
Short Story Collections
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  • ID: 2102
  • Added: 2025-10-12
  • Updated: 2025-10-12
  • ISBN: 9781501143489
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2016-03-29
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3

Different Seasons is a compelling collection of four distinct novellas by Stephen King, each set in a different season and exploring a unique facet of human experience. The stories range from the gripping tale of hope and perseverance in 'Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption' to the chilling exploration of obsession in 'Apt Pupil.' /n/n King's signature storytelling prowess shines through in these novellas, blending elements of drama, suspense, and psychological depth. Whether delving into the coming-of-age journey in 'The Body' or the eerie mystery of 'The Breathing Method,' each story offers a rich and immersive reading experience.

Reviews
Literary Elephant · 2020-11-12
versatile 4.00

The collection showcases King's versatility beyond horror, with the shortest story being the only one with supernatural elements. The novellas offer a mix of engaging and thought-provoking narratives.

This reviewer highlights how Different Seasons demonstrates Stephen King's ability to write compelling stories outside the horror genre. They appreciate the variety in the novellas, noting that only one has any fantastical elements. The collection is seen as a testament to King's versatility and storytelling prowess, with each novella offering something unique and engaging. They particularly enjoy how the stories delve into different themes and emotions, making it a well-rounded read.

Quick quotes

    Unusually for King, only the shortest story in this set has any sort of supernatural/fantastical element.

    A collection that showcases King's versatility and storytelling prowess.

    Each novella offers something unique and engaging.

MuseWithMe Blog · 2020-07-28
thought-provoking 4.25

The tale is hopeful but shows an uncomfortable sliver of reality. The reviewer appreciates the honesty and depth of the stories.

This reviewer from MuseWithMe Blog finds Different Seasons to be a collection that balances hope with a stark portrayal of reality. They appreciate the honesty and depth in the stories, noting that while the tales are ultimately hopeful, they do not shy away from showing the darker aspects of life. The reviewer is particularly struck by the emotional resonance of the novellas, which they find both engaging and thought-provoking. They highlight the collection's ability to explore complex themes with sensitivity and insight.

Quick quotes

    The tale is ultimately just as hopeful, but there is no grand comeuppance for the bad guys.

    It shows you an uncomfortable sliver of reality in a way that is both honest and deeply moving.

    A collection that balances hope with a stark portrayal of reality.

The Guardian · 2013-01-15
unsettling 4.50

Three of the novellas are better known as films, and rightly so, but the fourth has an odd, unsettling power. The collection is praised for its depth and impact.

The reviewer from The Guardian notes that three of the novellas in Different Seasons are widely recognized through their film adaptations, and deservedly so. However, they find the fourth novella to be particularly striking with its unsettling power. They appreciate the depth and emotional impact of the stories, highlighting how King's writing resonates long after reading. The collection is seen as a powerful exploration of human nature and emotions.

Quick quotes

    Three of this book's four novellas are better known as films, and rightly so.

    But the fourth has an odd, unsettling power.

    A powerful exploration of human nature and emotions.

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