Title: Elevation
Author: Stephen King
Publisher: Scribner
Publication Date: January 1, 2018
Ratings: 3/5
Plot Synopsis from 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 whether he is in his clothes or out of them, no matter how heavy they are.
Scott also has new neighbors who have opened a “fine dining experience” in town, although it’s an experience being shunned by the locals: Deirdre McComb and her wife Missy Donaldson don’t exactly conform to a lifestyle the community approves of. And now Scott seems trapped in a feud with the couple over their dogs dropping their business on his lawn. Missy may be warm and friendly, but Deirdre is as cold as ice.
As the town prepares for its annual Thanksgiving 12K run, Scott begins to understand the prejudices the women face, and 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.
Book Review
Stephen King’s Elevation is a slim and thought-provoking novella that delves into themes of prejudice, empathy, and the power of human connection. While it may not have the chilling intensity of King’s most famous works, this book offers a heartfelt and introspective story that showcases the author’s versatility and ability to tackle a wide range of subjects.
One of the strengths of Elevation lies in its ability to delve into the human experience and evoke empathy. Scott Carey’s journey, both physical and emotional, serves as a metaphor for shedding personal baggage and prejudices. King highlights the importance of understanding, compassion, and breaking down barriers in a world that often seems divided. The novella’s message of finding common ground and embracing kindness resonates strongly in our current socio-political climate.
King’s writing style remains engaging and accessible, even in this shorter format. He creates vivid and relatable characters that readers can invest in, despite the limited page count. Scott Carey is a sympathetic protagonist, and the supporting cast adds depth and texture to the narrative. The interactions between characters are authentic, and their growth throughout the story is satisfying.
However, the brevity of Elevation may leave some readers wanting more. While the themes and ideas presented are compelling, the novella’s short length restricts the exploration of certain aspects. The story feels somewhat rushed, and certain plot points and character arcs could have been further developed to enhance the emotional impact. As a result, the narrative can feel somewhat incomplete and leave readers yearning for a more substantial resolution.
Elevation is a thought-provoking novella that explores themes of prejudice, empathy, and personal growth. While it may not be Stephen King’s most intense or memorable work, it offers a poignant message and showcases the author’s ability to tackle diverse subject matters. The brevity of the story limits its full potential, but it still manages to provide an engaging and introspective reading experience. Elevation earns a solid three-star rating.