Elevation by Stephen King
Narrator: Stephen King
Published by Hodder & Stoughton
Publication Date October 30, 2018
Goodreads
Castle Rock is a small town, where word gets around quickly. That's why Scott Carey wants to confide only in his friend Doctor Bob Ellis about his strange condition: he's losing weight, without getting thinner, and the scales register the same when he is in his clothes or out of them, however heavy they are.
Scott also has new neighbours, who have opened a 'fine dining experience' in town, although it's an experience being shunned by the locals; Deidre McComb and her wife Missy Donaldson don't exactly fit in with the community's expectations. And now Scott seems trapped in a feud with the couple over their dogs dropping their business on his lawn. Missy may be friendly, but Deidre is cold as ice.
As the town prepares for its annual Thanksgiving 12k run, Scott starts to understand the prejudices his neighbours face and he tries to help. Unlikely alliances form and the mystery of Scott's affliction brings out the best in people who have indulged the worst in themselves and others.
Reading Progress
First Impressions
Elevation drew me in almost immediately. Despite the similarities to Thinner I was intrigued, Stephen King creates individual characters in every book he writes. I looked forward to listening and learning more about Scott Carey. However, Stephen King made me feel invested in Scott Carey as a person as the focus was not solely on his fluctuating weight.
Final Impressions
Like all of Stephen King’s novels Elevation was expertly written. The audiobook was short, sweet, and, narrated by the author which is always a plus. I enjoyed reading (or listening) to the character development of Scott Carey and the neighborhood lesbian-owned restaurant. Sadly, Elevation was too reminiscent of Thinner and I had a hard time engaging in the novel. Elevation is an interesting concept, however, because of the similarities to Thinner it lacked some of the originality of King’s other novels. Stephen King is still an amazing writer and I fear my disappointment stems from wanting more depth from Elevation.
Terrific review. I think I would enjoy listening to one of his books, especially if he narrates it.
Thanks, Wendy! I highly recommend listening to Stephen King read one of his novels, he adds a special quality to the listening experience.
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