''You Like It Darker'' is a collection of twelve stories by American author

Stephen King Stephen Edwin King (born September 21, 1947) is an American author of horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, crime, science-fiction, and fantasy novels. Described as the "King of Horror", a play on his surname and a reference to his high s ...

, set to be published by

Scribner Scribner may refer to: Media * Charles Scribner's Sons, also known as Scribner or Scribner's, New York City publisher * ''Scribner's Magazine'', pictorial published from 1887–1939 by Charles Scribner's Sons, then merged with the ''Commentator ...

in May 2024. It delves into the darker aspects of life, both metaphorically and literally. Known for exploring themes such as fate, mortality, luck, and the unexpected turns of reality, the book comprises a mix of new and previously published stories. Each narrative, distinct in its approach, collectively contributes to this volume, marking its first comprehensive assembly. The book was announced on November 6, 2023, via '' Entertainment Weekly'', which provided a look at the book's wraparound cover, table of contents, and an excerpt from " Rattlesnakes", a sequel to King's 1981 novel '' Cujo''.

Stories

Selected stories

The collection has a diverse range of stories, each delving into unique aspects of the human experience, often through a lens of supernatural or psychological horror. Notable stories within the collection include:

Rattlesnakes

Serving as a sequel to King's 1981 novel '' Cujo'', this tale follows a grieving widower who, in search of solace, travels to Florida. However, his journey takes an unexpected turn when he receives a peculiar inheritance, accompanied by significant conditions.

Two Talented Bastids

This story unravels the concealed secret behind the remarkable abilities of the titular characters, offering a narrative rich in mystery and revelation.

Danny Coughlin's Bad Dream

Focusing on the impact of a sudden and unprecedented psychic event, this tale explores the profound upheaval caused in numerous lives.

The Dreamers

A narrative centered around a reticent Vietnam veteran who, upon responding to a job advertisement, discovers that certain realms of the universe are better left undiscovered. Stephen King said that though it's very rare that he scares himself with what he writes, a story in the upcoming collection titled ''The Dreamers'' was "so creepy" that he "couldn’t think about it at night".

The Answer Man

This story probes the dual nature of prescience, contemplating whether it constitutes good fortune or a curse, and reflects on how lives marked by profound tragedy can still hold significance. Each story in ''You Like It Darker'' offers a distinct exploration of themes such as fate, grief, the supernatural, and the often-blurred line between the known and the unknown.

Publication

The collection will be published in May 2024 by

. It will be available in physical, digital and audio book formats.

Critical response

Philippa Pride, Stephen King's UK editor, says: "''You Like It Darker'' is a collection of long stories and short tales with unexpected twists. We at Hodder are so excited to champion this book by the ultimate storyteller, who has long been a master of the short fiction form. The book’s publication will play a key part in a major anniversary year for Stephen King. There is a story here for every reader, which will continue to resonate long after they have finished the book – from the terrifying sound of a squeaky wheel on a double stroller to the heartwarming feeling of a puppy protecting her master. Nobody does it better!"

References

External links

Stephen King's Official Website
{{Stephen King 2024 short story collections American short story collections Short story collections by Stephen King Charles Scribner's Sons books