Top 19 Stephen King Stories, Ranked – Entertainment site
In the world of Stephen King fans, 2025 has been a particularly notable year. Every year seems to be a great one for King enthusiasts, as the prolific author continues to release 1-2 masterpieces annually without any plans to slow down. So far this year, we have been treated to some exceptional adaptations of King’s work that have left audiences thoroughly entertained.
One such adaptation is Oz Perkins’ The Monkey, which pleasantly surprised audiences with its dark humor and thrilling storyline. Mike Flanagan’s The Life of Chuck offers a touching glimpse into the end of the world, or at least the end of one man’s life. Meanwhile, The Institute promises to be a captivating adaptation on MGM+, leaving fans eagerly anticipating its release.
One of King’s earlier works, The Long Walk, written at the young age of 19, serves as a powerful example of the author’s talent. Though not his first published novel, The Long Walk is a testament to King’s prowess as a storyteller. Lionsgate’s adaptation of this chilling tale captures the essence of the original work, highlighting the resilience and humanity of ordinary people faced with unimaginable challenges.
Ranking Stephen King’s vast body of work is no easy feat, given the sheer volume of stories he has created. With 65 novels and novellas to his name, not to mention countless short stories spanning various genres, King has built a legacy that resonates with readers worldwide. To celebrate The Long Walk, here is a fan’s attempt to rank the 19 best Stephen King stories, drawn from the depths of Todash Space.
Starting with Needful Things, a captivating Faustian tale set in Castle Rock, Maine, the story explores the darker side of human nature through a series of sinister events triggered by the arrival of a mysterious shop owner. ‘Salem’s Lot, King’s second novel, takes readers on a chilling journey into the heart of a vampire-infested town, showcasing the author’s knack for creating suspenseful narratives. Another standout story is “Children of the Corn,” a gripping tale of terror and sacrifice set in rural Nebraska, where a malevolent entity lurks among the cornfields.
Continuing the list is “1408,” a haunting story that delves into the supernatural realm by following a skeptical writer as he encounters a malevolent presence in a hotel room. Under the Dome, a riveting sci-fi horror novel, explores the consequences of isolation and powerlessness in a small town trapped under a mysterious dome. The Outsider, a gritty murder mystery, introduces readers to a dark entity that terrorizes a community, challenging their perceptions of reality and evil. Finally, From a Buick 8 presents a chilling tale of a vintage car with supernatural powers, weaving a narrative that blurs the lines between worlds.
As fans of Stephen King eagerly await his next literary offering, these 19 stories stand as shining examples of the author’s unparalleled talent for crafting tales that chill, thrill, and captivate readers across generations.