UPDATE: A new list highlights the 10 most obscure novels by acclaimed author Stephen King, according to Goodreads ratings. These lesser-known titles, often overshadowed by King’s iconic works like The Shining and It, are generating buzz among readers seeking fresh material from the Master of Horror.
Just released today, this list showcases novels that have surprisingly low readership despite their intriguing plots. The rankings are based on the number of ratings each book has received on Goodreads, revealing a hidden side of King’s extensive literary portfolio that spans over 50 years.
Among the highlighted works, Sleeping Beauties tops the list with 94,269 ratings. Co-written with his son, Owen King, this 700-page epic explores a fantastical premise where women worldwide fall into a mysterious sleep, leaving men to navigate a chaotic reality. However, it lacks the mainstream adaptations that typically drive interest.
Following closely is Lisey’s Story, with 93,932 ratings. As King’s personal favorite, this novel serves as a love letter to his wife, tackling themes of mortality and legacy. Yet, its complex narrative may deter casual readers, making it one of his least accessible works.
The list continues with other intriguing titles, such as The Dark Tower: The Wind Through the Keyhole (92,522 ratings), which fans describe as a charming interquel yet often deemed non-essential for appreciating the core saga. Similarly, Gwendy’s Button Box (79,486 ratings) offers a light, coming-of-age story but lacks the depth found in King’s more celebrated novels.
Other noteworthy mentions include From a Buick 8 (74,391 ratings), which re-explores King’s fascination with haunted vehicles, and Black House (68,471 ratings), a sequel that showcases King’s collaborative prowess with Peter Straub.
While titles like Cycle of the Werewolf (64,754 ratings) and The Colorado Kid (59,208 ratings) present unique narratives, they also highlight King’s tendency to experiment with form, at times to the detriment of clarity. Moreover, Never Flinch (52,845 ratings) and Gwendy’s Final Task (22,057 ratings) reveal a more obscure end to King’s prolific career, with Gwendy’s tale generating particularly low interest.
These findings come as readers increasingly seek out underrated gems in King’s extensive catalog. As the literary community reacts, many are sharing their thoughts on social media, eager to explore these hidden narratives.
For fans and newcomers alike, this list serves as a compelling invitation to dive deeper into Stephen King’s world. The obscurity of these novels only adds to their allure, making them essential reads for anyone looking to experience the full breadth of King’s storytelling prowess.
Stay tuned as this story develops and more readers discover these lesser-known works that have become integral parts of King’s literary legacy.
