Different Seasons

It took me almost two years to finish this collection, given my forays into professorship and parenthood. It was the first bit of King's fiction I have read in several years. It didn't disappoint.

I picked up this particular collection to finally read the basis for one my favorite films, The Shawshank Redemption. The movie stuck closely to the story, and I'll admit I like the elements of the story that didn't make it to film. I also find myself unbothered by the liberties taken by the screenplay. I wish I could say the same for The Body and Stand by Me, but it's simply been too long since I've seen that film. Admittedly, I have not watched Apt Pupil, but I was familiar with the plot. That left the final tale as the one that was completely new to me.

The Breathing Method was a terrific story, but I felt it needed a little more (i.e., explore the club idea) or a little less (i.e., leave the club out entirely). Still, I read it with a sort of recklessness that a piece of fiction has not triggered in me for years.

Of course, I recommend this one.