A review by beardedreader
11/22/63 by Stephen King

adventurous mysterious reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.25

 Stephen King’s 11/22/63 is a refreshing twist on his usual style, blending science fiction, historical fiction, and a gritty pulp detective tone. The story follows Jake Epping as he tries to prevent the JFK assassination, and King does a great job mixing tension with a deep dive into the late 1950s & early 1960s, showcasing both its nostalgic appeal and the darker aspects like racism and sexism. Sure, at times it feels like a boomer reflecting on their childhood, but King is self-aware enough to dig deeper into those issues. The time travel elements are intriguing, but it’s the characters—especially the heartfelt love story between Jake and Sadie—that really shine. King’s detailed, sometimes wordy style works to set the time and immerse you in the era, though the use of racial slurs can feel unnecessary. Despite its size, the book never drags—it kept me hooked. This is, hands down, the best Stephen King novel I’ve read, earning a solid 4.25 stars for its emotional depth, storytelling, and tone.


 
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