The Long Walk - Book Review

One of the most underrated books by Stephen King, "The Long Walk" is full of physical and psychological terror. I was thrilled to start reading this book knowing that this is just 300+ pages long as compared to his other books but these 300 pages give a real cramp in your legs.

The Long Walk, as the name suggests, is about a long walk, an infamous long walk. In a dystopian world, an oppressive government ruler organizes an annual contest of 'walk' in which 100 American youth participate. The rules are simple - keep the speed of 4 miles an hour at least otherwise you'll get a warning. Three warnings and you're out. Out means shot!

I have always wondered how Stephen King manages to write so many characters without confusing the reader. This book is no exception. So many walkers, stories they share while walking, their relationships, their relationships with each other - all are skillfully executed. The storytelling has been flawless and there has never been a dull moment.

I felt physical terror while reading this book. The exhaustion each walker goes through is so brilliantly portrayed that I felt exhausted reading this book. I did feel like I have muscle cramps in my legs several times reading about charlie's horse. I felt myself walking with all the boys participating in the Long Walk. All the walkers seem realistic and boys next doors. That made it even more terrifying to feel their exhaustion. It could have been 5 stars but the open-end was not my favourite thing in Stephen King's books.

The Long Walk is my favourite Richard Bachman book by Stephen King and one of the best dystopian books I've read. I'd recommend it to anyone who is trying to get into Stephen King books. This could be a good start.