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L'Année du loup-garou
Tout a commencé en janvier, une nuit de pleine lune… Le premier hurlement fut celui d’un employé des chemins de fer quand il sentit les crocs lui déchirer la gorge. Depuis, chaque nuit de pleine lune, la petite bourgade de Tarker Mills est en proie à l’horreur. Qui sera le prochain ?
112 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 1, 1983
934 people are currently reading
45874 people want to read
About the author
Stephen King
2,393 books888k followersStephen Edwin King was born the second son of Donald and Nellie Ruth Pillsbury King. After his father left them when Stephen was two, he and his older brother, David, were raised by his mother. Parts of his childhood were spent in Fort Wayne, Indiana, where his father's family was at the time, and in Stratford, Connecticut. When Stephen was eleven, his mother brought her children back to Durham, Maine, for good. Her parents, Guy and Nellie Pillsbury, had become incapacitated with old age, and Ruth King was persuaded by her sisters to take over the physical care of them. Other family members provided a small house in Durham and financial support. After Stephen's grandparents passed away, Mrs. King found work in the kitchens of Pineland, a nearby residential facility for the mentally challenged.
Stephen attended the grammar school in Durham and Lisbon Falls High School, graduating in 1966. From his sophomore year at the University of Maine at Orono, he wrote a weekly column for the school newspaper, THE MAINE CAMPUS. He was also active in student politics, serving as a member of the Student Senate. He came to support the anti-war movement on the Orono campus, arriving at his stance from a conservative view that the war in Vietnam was unconstitutional. He graduated in 1970, with a B.A. in English and qualified to teach on the high school level. A draft board examination immediately post-graduation found him 4-F on grounds of high blood pressure, limited vision, flat feet, and punctured eardrums.
He met Tabitha Spruce in the stacks of the Fogler Library at the University, where they both worked as students; they married in January of 1971. As Stephen was unable to find placement as a teacher immediately, the Kings lived on his earnings as a laborer at an industrial laundry, and her student loan and savings, with an occasional boost from a short story sale to men's magazines.
Stephen made his first professional short story sale ("The Glass Floor") to Startling Mystery Stories in 1967. Throughout the early years of his marriage, he continued to sell stories to men's magazines. Many were gathered into the Night Shift collection or appeared in other anthologies.
In the fall of 1971, Stephen began teaching English at Hampden Academy, the public high school in Hampden, Maine. Writing in the evenings and on the weekends, he continued to produce short stories and to work on novels.
Stephen attended the grammar school in Durham and Lisbon Falls High School, graduating in 1966. From his sophomore year at the University of Maine at Orono, he wrote a weekly column for the school newspaper, THE MAINE CAMPUS. He was also active in student politics, serving as a member of the Student Senate. He came to support the anti-war movement on the Orono campus, arriving at his stance from a conservative view that the war in Vietnam was unconstitutional. He graduated in 1970, with a B.A. in English and qualified to teach on the high school level. A draft board examination immediately post-graduation found him 4-F on grounds of high blood pressure, limited vision, flat feet, and punctured eardrums.
He met Tabitha Spruce in the stacks of the Fogler Library at the University, where they both worked as students; they married in January of 1971. As Stephen was unable to find placement as a teacher immediately, the Kings lived on his earnings as a laborer at an industrial laundry, and her student loan and savings, with an occasional boost from a short story sale to men's magazines.
Stephen made his first professional short story sale ("The Glass Floor") to Startling Mystery Stories in 1967. Throughout the early years of his marriage, he continued to sell stories to men's magazines. Many were gathered into the Night Shift collection or appeared in other anthologies.
In the fall of 1971, Stephen began teaching English at Hampden Academy, the public high school in Hampden, Maine. Writing in the evenings and on the weekends, he continued to produce short stories and to work on novels.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,143 reviews
February 20, 2024
“Cycle of the Werewolf” by Stephen King is one of those rare horror gems that you must read at least once in your life. Not only is this a nod to old-school classic horror but its delivery as a werewolf “creature feature” book is nothing short of legendary.
Now, before I begin with my review, I did find a few trigger warnings while reading. They were…
- Domestic violence (physical and mental)
- Violence against animals (very graphic against pigs with images)
- Sexually transmitted diseases (herpes)
If any of these trigger you, please do not read this book. Moving along, besides being an exceptional story, I loved the graphics and bloody art throughout the reading experience. This added such a nostalgic touch for me since I grew up reading paperback horror novels where every chapter always had an illustration to kick things off.
The fact that King wrote this and was able to get horror art made for it by world-famous artist Bernie Wrightson is incredible. It made this book even scarier while reading as events and situations happened. Sadly, Wrightson is no longer with us but I hope he is resting in peace since the impact he’s had in horror will last forever in the hearts of millions.
All the art in “Cycle of the Werewolf” is some of the best I’ve ever seen in a horror novel. I loved it and it enhanced the reading experience tremendously. Besides that, the story was fantastic and the characters were all memorable. The way it was formatted was brilliant to look at things from an entire year’s perspective, especially with the changing seasons.
Needless to say, King is a master storyteller and once again delivered another horror masterpiece. All the bloody carnage in this book and the atmospheric writing were top-notch. It’s such a crazy, wild, and addictive story that I could not put this book down once I started. This was an amazing read that I finished in a single day because it was that great.
This book checks all the boxes if you’re looking for horror, mystery, suspense, and a thriller all in one package. It’s short, sweet, and right to the point for a powerhouse of a read involving werewolves. Even the ending was perfect with all the plot twists and a huge reveal. Don’t worry, no spoilers here but WOW, that was awesome!
I give “Cycle of the Werewolf” by Stephen King a 5/5 for being one of the best books I’ve ever read that involves werewolves. It’s a perfect “creature feature” book since you get a magnificent story on top of gory, bloody, violent art to complement everything and bring it all together. The atmospheric writing for each victim was marvelous and for a book that’s just 112 pages, it’s highly recommended for a quick bedtime story or enjoying over a weekend.
THE BEAST WALKS AMONG US
Now, before I begin with my review, I did find a few trigger warnings while reading. They were…
- Domestic violence (physical and mental)
- Violence against animals (very graphic against pigs with images)
- Sexually transmitted diseases (herpes)
If any of these trigger you, please do not read this book. Moving along, besides being an exceptional story, I loved the graphics and bloody art throughout the reading experience. This added such a nostalgic touch for me since I grew up reading paperback horror novels where every chapter always had an illustration to kick things off.
The fact that King wrote this and was able to get horror art made for it by world-famous artist Bernie Wrightson is incredible. It made this book even scarier while reading as events and situations happened. Sadly, Wrightson is no longer with us but I hope he is resting in peace since the impact he’s had in horror will last forever in the hearts of millions.
All the art in “Cycle of the Werewolf” is some of the best I’ve ever seen in a horror novel. I loved it and it enhanced the reading experience tremendously. Besides that, the story was fantastic and the characters were all memorable. The way it was formatted was brilliant to look at things from an entire year’s perspective, especially with the changing seasons.
Needless to say, King is a master storyteller and once again delivered another horror masterpiece. All the bloody carnage in this book and the atmospheric writing were top-notch. It’s such a crazy, wild, and addictive story that I could not put this book down once I started. This was an amazing read that I finished in a single day because it was that great.
This book checks all the boxes if you’re looking for horror, mystery, suspense, and a thriller all in one package. It’s short, sweet, and right to the point for a powerhouse of a read involving werewolves. Even the ending was perfect with all the plot twists and a huge reveal. Don’t worry, no spoilers here but WOW, that was awesome!
I give “Cycle of the Werewolf” by Stephen King a 5/5 for being one of the best books I’ve ever read that involves werewolves. It’s a perfect “creature feature” book since you get a magnificent story on top of gory, bloody, violent art to complement everything and bring it all together. The atmospheric writing for each victim was marvelous and for a book that’s just 112 pages, it’s highly recommended for a quick bedtime story or enjoying over a weekend.
THE BEAST WALKS AMONG US
April 18, 2018
I have always loved Silver Bullet.
This book is super short but full of awesome! And the artwork is amazing. I will add a few images in no particular order!
Loved it!! And of course now I want to watch Silver Bullet!
Mel 🖤🐾🐺
This book is super short but full of awesome! And the artwork is amazing. I will add a few images in no particular order!
Loved it!! And of course now I want to watch Silver Bullet!
Mel 🖤🐾🐺
October 14, 2024
‘...everywhere and nowhere as the March wind begins to rise and moan like a dead Berserker winding his horn, it drifted on the wind, lonely and savage.’
In Cycle of the Werewolf, Stephen King takes a classic monster and gives it his signature twist, a story packed with suspense, gore, and an unsettling reminder that no one is safe when the moon is full.
Set in the small town of Tarker’s Mills, this novella spins a tale of terror that unfolds month by month. At the heart of the story is Marty Coslaw, a 10 year old boy in a wheelchair whose sharp wit and sheer bravery make him an unlikely but unforgettable hero.
One of the fun aspects of Cycle of the Werewolf is its structure. It’s almost like a twisted calendar of horror, where you flip the page and get hit with another gruesome murder. Add in Bernie Wrightson’s eerie illustrations, and you’ve got yourself a spooky visual feast.
While it may not be as heavy as King’s longer works, this novella still packs a punch. It’s perfect for those who like their Werewolf stories with a side of small town charm and a whole lot of blood.
If you want a quick but satisfying Werewolf tale to sink your teeth into, Cycle of the Werewolf won’t disappoint. It’s classic King, creepy, thrilling, and just the right amount of grisly fun.
I Highly Recommend.
‘Something inhuman has come to Tarker’s Mills, as unseen as the full moon riding the night sky high above.’
4.5
In Cycle of the Werewolf, Stephen King takes a classic monster and gives it his signature twist, a story packed with suspense, gore, and an unsettling reminder that no one is safe when the moon is full.
Set in the small town of Tarker’s Mills, this novella spins a tale of terror that unfolds month by month. At the heart of the story is Marty Coslaw, a 10 year old boy in a wheelchair whose sharp wit and sheer bravery make him an unlikely but unforgettable hero.
One of the fun aspects of Cycle of the Werewolf is its structure. It’s almost like a twisted calendar of horror, where you flip the page and get hit with another gruesome murder. Add in Bernie Wrightson’s eerie illustrations, and you’ve got yourself a spooky visual feast.
While it may not be as heavy as King’s longer works, this novella still packs a punch. It’s perfect for those who like their Werewolf stories with a side of small town charm and a whole lot of blood.
If you want a quick but satisfying Werewolf tale to sink your teeth into, Cycle of the Werewolf won’t disappoint. It’s classic King, creepy, thrilling, and just the right amount of grisly fun.
I Highly Recommend.
‘Something inhuman has come to Tarker’s Mills, as unseen as the full moon riding the night sky high above.’
4.5
June 24, 2020
4 stars – 5 in places
Cycle of the Werewolf is touted as a novel in many places. But this really isn’t even long enough to be considered a novella. It’s a short story; I paced myself but could probably have read this whole thing in under an hour. This observation is not a complaint, I just want to make sure anyone reading this based on my review know exactly what they will be seeing.
Also, every chapter includes artwork by Bernie Wrightson. These pictures are very cool and add a lot to the story, however, they are sometimes a spoiler and depict a scene coming up in the next few pages. Since they are large and colorful it is hard for your eye not to be drawn to them. So, proceed with caution if you want to learn the story from the words and not the pictures!
Here is one that is not too spoilerish!
I have been working my way through King’s works chronologically and I have to get a shout out to Dichotomy Girl for getting my mind right in the comments on her review of The Gunslinger so that I did not forget this one! I put The Talisman on hold about a month ago and just got in my mind that is what I would read next after Pet Sematary. If it wasn’t for her, I would have started The Talisman before Cycle of the Werewolf and it would have ruined the whole thing! I would have had to start over! (Well, maybe not, but it makes the save sound so much more dramatic!)
Thank you, Dichotomy Girl!
If you want a very good but quick scare, pick this one up to read under the covers one night. It is a good sampling of Stephen King if you really don’t have a lot of time to try him out. Or, maybe you just need a quick fix and don’t have time for It or The Stand!
Side note: This is the book the 80s movie Silver Bullet was based on.
Cycle of the Werewolf is touted as a novel in many places. But this really isn’t even long enough to be considered a novella. It’s a short story; I paced myself but could probably have read this whole thing in under an hour. This observation is not a complaint, I just want to make sure anyone reading this based on my review know exactly what they will be seeing.
Also, every chapter includes artwork by Bernie Wrightson. These pictures are very cool and add a lot to the story, however, they are sometimes a spoiler and depict a scene coming up in the next few pages. Since they are large and colorful it is hard for your eye not to be drawn to them. So, proceed with caution if you want to learn the story from the words and not the pictures!
Here is one that is not too spoilerish!
I have been working my way through King’s works chronologically and I have to get a shout out to Dichotomy Girl for getting my mind right in the comments on her review of The Gunslinger so that I did not forget this one! I put The Talisman on hold about a month ago and just got in my mind that is what I would read next after Pet Sematary. If it wasn’t for her, I would have started The Talisman before Cycle of the Werewolf and it would have ruined the whole thing! I would have had to start over! (Well, maybe not, but it makes the save sound so much more dramatic!)
Thank you, Dichotomy Girl!
If you want a very good but quick scare, pick this one up to read under the covers one night. It is a good sampling of Stephen King if you really don’t have a lot of time to try him out. Or, maybe you just need a quick fix and don’t have time for It or The Stand!
Side note: This is the book the 80s movie Silver Bullet was based on.
August 13, 2025
Knowing the mad writing machine that is Stephen King, after being pitched—or pitching himself—the idea for a calendar collaboration with Bernie Wrightson, he was probably tasked with writing twelve short paragraphs about the lunar cycle and a few days later he came back with a full werewolf novella. King just can’t resist delving into his towns and characters.
The publishers probably said, “how are we supposed to fit all of this on a calendar? We won’t have any room for the actual calendar dates. Do we use inserts? Foldouts? Fuck it. We’ll just publish it as a novel and include the artwork. Remind me not to ask you to contribute to our greeting card line.”
As for my best werewolf novel hunt, it ranks high. The monthly intervals provide glimpses of intrigue leading to a culmination that is not quite top-tier King, but still among the more appreciable offerings from lycanthropic lore.
The publishers probably said, “how are we supposed to fit all of this on a calendar? We won’t have any room for the actual calendar dates. Do we use inserts? Foldouts? Fuck it. We’ll just publish it as a novel and include the artwork. Remind me not to ask you to contribute to our greeting card line.”
As for my best werewolf novel hunt, it ranks high. The monthly intervals provide glimpses of intrigue leading to a culmination that is not quite top-tier King, but still among the more appreciable offerings from lycanthropic lore.
October 31, 2021
Tarker's Mills is under attack by a killer, once a month, whenever there's a full moon! King takes on the classic horror theme of werewolves with artist Bernie Wrightson (RIP). The plot is kind of spelt out in advance throughout which may lessen the enjoyment of this read for some.
There's a fair amount of of suspense in this one, later to be adapted for film as Sliver Bullet. Some interesting turns (no pun intended) in this 7 out of 12 suspense horror.
There's a fair amount of of suspense in this one, later to be adapted for film as Sliver Bullet. Some interesting turns (no pun intended) in this 7 out of 12 suspense horror.
October 20, 2017
Cycle of Werewolf by Stephen King
is NOT about a poor Werewolf searching for his stolen bicycle, without which he will not be able to stalk his victims during the full moon.
No, seriously it's not. Such a confusing title!
The cycle here refers to a year of the gruesome werewolf attacks from January to December 1983, in a small town called Tarker's Mill. All murders took place during the full moon and they were committed by a classic murderous Werewolf (I got to use the word "Classic" because the modern Werewolves looks like overgrown foxes).
This is a rather short novel. To tell the truth, many of King's novellas are lengthier than this novel. The story is divided into 12 chapters (January to December), and each chapter follows our Werewolf's hunt for prey. At the beginning, I was quite discouraged by the first three chapters as they lacked the usual thrills offered by King.
And then came the month of April and May...
And It all went uphill from that.
Oh, wait! I forgot to drop the selling point of this book! It's beautifully illustrated by Bernie Wrightson! Just as King paints the horror with his words, Wrightson uses his illustrations to capture those moments effectively.
The writing, the characters and the moments of horror are well crafted, and even though the short length dampens some aspects of the story, It is a fun read.
No, seriously it's not. Such a confusing title!
The cycle here refers to a year of the gruesome werewolf attacks from January to December 1983, in a small town called Tarker's Mill. All murders took place during the full moon and they were committed by a classic murderous Werewolf (I got to use the word "Classic" because the modern Werewolves looks like overgrown foxes).
This is a rather short novel. To tell the truth, many of King's novellas are lengthier than this novel. The story is divided into 12 chapters (January to December), and each chapter follows our Werewolf's hunt for prey. At the beginning, I was quite discouraged by the first three chapters as they lacked the usual thrills offered by King.
And then came the month of April and May...
And It all went uphill from that.
Oh, wait! I forgot to drop the selling point of this book! It's beautifully illustrated by Bernie Wrightson! Just as King paints the horror with his words, Wrightson uses his illustrations to capture those moments effectively.
The writing, the characters and the moments of horror are well crafted, and even though the short length dampens some aspects of the story, It is a fun read.
September 13, 2025
فى منتهى السذاجة و التقليدية و الغريب ان المؤلف هو ستيفن كينج و المترجم أحمد خالد توفيق الا انك تكاد تجزم أنها لطفل فى المرحلة الاعدادية .. اه عفوا لمراهق فى تانية اعدادى و ليس لطفل حتى اننى قررت ان اعطيها نجمة واحدة و لكن ضغط اصبعى نجمتين فقلت لا بأس بذلك. نجمة لكينج و نجمة لتوفيق.
July 1, 2025
Based on the movie, Silver Bullet!
I'm kidding. Calm down, nerd.
But Silver Bullet is my favorite werewolf movie, and this is the short story that it was based on. Corey Haim in that wheelchair fighting off a snarling monster on a bridge with only fireworks and that adorable baby face?
LOVE IT.
Even more terrifying to imagine your only backup was a crazy uncle who looked like Gary Busey!
Ok. So the short story is great.
Each chapter is a month, starting with January, and poor Arnie Westrum, who is hunkering down in a shelter during a storm when he hears what he thinks is a dog scratching to get in.
Spoiler alert: it is not a dog.
Every month tells of a new attack and a new death in the small town of Tarker's Mills. That is, until July when a 10 year old boy in a wheelchair brandishing firecrackers manages to escape.
When they tell you that you're gonna put your eye out with those things, they aren't kidding.
They also aren't kidding about blowing your digits off, but did Three-Fingered Phil listen to his mother? No. No, he did not.
If this story has a moral, I think it is that we worrywarts need to take a step back and remember that you never really know when your small child might need to fend off a werewolf. And then pack their backpack accordingly. Maybe toss in a few of those firecrackers...just in case.
The rest of the months all lead up to some of the townsfolk coming to the conclusion that there might just be a damn werewolf eating their neighbors, and the werewolf itself coming to the conclusion that this might not be such a bad thing after all.
And how does this peppy little tale resolve itself?
One of the main reasons I think this one stands out to me is that
Recommended.
I'm kidding. Calm down, nerd.
But Silver Bullet is my favorite werewolf movie, and this is the short story that it was based on. Corey Haim in that wheelchair fighting off a snarling monster on a bridge with only fireworks and that adorable baby face?
LOVE IT.
Even more terrifying to imagine your only backup was a crazy uncle who looked like Gary Busey!
Ok. So the short story is great.
Each chapter is a month, starting with January, and poor Arnie Westrum, who is hunkering down in a shelter during a storm when he hears what he thinks is a dog scratching to get in.
Spoiler alert: it is not a dog.
Every month tells of a new attack and a new death in the small town of Tarker's Mills. That is, until July when a 10 year old boy in a wheelchair brandishing firecrackers manages to escape.
When they tell you that you're gonna put your eye out with those things, they aren't kidding.
They also aren't kidding about blowing your digits off, but did Three-Fingered Phil listen to his mother? No. No, he did not.
If this story has a moral, I think it is that we worrywarts need to take a step back and remember that you never really know when your small child might need to fend off a werewolf. And then pack their backpack accordingly. Maybe toss in a few of those firecrackers...just in case.
The rest of the months all lead up to some of the townsfolk coming to the conclusion that there might just be a damn werewolf eating their neighbors, and the werewolf itself coming to the conclusion that this might not be such a bad thing after all.
And how does this peppy little tale resolve itself?
One of the main reasons I think this one stands out to me is that
Recommended.
October 24, 2019
The Cycle of the Wolf by Stephen King is a 2019 Gallery 13 publication.
This book was originally published, as most everyone knows, way back in 1983, then release in paperback in 1985. Later, this short story was the basis for the movie ‘Silver Bullet’.
First off, let me say, I did enjoy revisiting this story after so many years. I think I appreciate the clever execution more now, than when I was much younger.
Each full moon werewolf attack tends to transpire around a holiday- although, King admits, he didn’t follow an accurate lunar cycle. Each month of the calendar year features a short vignette, usually leaving a victim dead, after falling prey to a werewolf- with one notable exception. Classic comic book artist, Bernie Wrightson, provided the illustrations, which are a real treat. The tension is still taut, even though I already know who the werewolf is, and how it will all end.
Overall, this is still a fun werewolf story, still quite effective, and at only 128 pages it didn’t take long to re-read it.
However-
Just in case someone else is scrolling through Edelweiss and happens upon this book. I want to warn you of a few things.
The book is set for a digital release in mid- August of this year and It is categorized as a graphic novel. Under those circumstances one may draw certain conclusions about the book, the same way I did. As many of you know, I’ve recently developed an interest in graphic novels, comics and Manga. So, when I saw this book, it looked like it was a new release, and it was listed as a graphic novel. So, I got super excited, thinking it was a graphic novel, presented in the traditional comic book format, and was based on the original short story.
Turns out, I’m an idiot. This is, as far as I can tell, a straight up reissue, although I do think the cover is new. The story is plain text, and the artwork, which once again, is outstanding, only amounts to a one illustration per chapter.
In my defense, the listing on Edelweiss didn’t really clarify anything for me, and to my knowledge, this book was never marketed as a graphic novel until just recently, but I could be wrong about that. I’m not sure if this short story really qualifies as a graphic novel in the traditional sense, as there are tons of books out there with illustrations. Surely, they aren’t all considered graphic novels!
So, here’s the scoop. If you already own a copy of this book, in one format or another, then you don’t really need this book, unless you just want a digital copy for back- up purposes. There is absolutely nothing new here. The novel will cost you a whopping twelve dollars for 128 pages. However, if you do not already own a copy, this might be your best option. Finding a descent used paperback version may be a daunting task.
I may be the only one who got the wrong impression about this one, however, just in case, I thought I’d mention it and vent my frustrations at the same time.
Overall, despite my frustration and chagrin, I’m still glad I downloaded it- it is a classic, after all.
4 stars
This book was originally published, as most everyone knows, way back in 1983, then release in paperback in 1985. Later, this short story was the basis for the movie ‘Silver Bullet’.
First off, let me say, I did enjoy revisiting this story after so many years. I think I appreciate the clever execution more now, than when I was much younger.
Each full moon werewolf attack tends to transpire around a holiday- although, King admits, he didn’t follow an accurate lunar cycle. Each month of the calendar year features a short vignette, usually leaving a victim dead, after falling prey to a werewolf- with one notable exception. Classic comic book artist, Bernie Wrightson, provided the illustrations, which are a real treat. The tension is still taut, even though I already know who the werewolf is, and how it will all end.
Overall, this is still a fun werewolf story, still quite effective, and at only 128 pages it didn’t take long to re-read it.
However-
Just in case someone else is scrolling through Edelweiss and happens upon this book. I want to warn you of a few things.
The book is set for a digital release in mid- August of this year and It is categorized as a graphic novel. Under those circumstances one may draw certain conclusions about the book, the same way I did. As many of you know, I’ve recently developed an interest in graphic novels, comics and Manga. So, when I saw this book, it looked like it was a new release, and it was listed as a graphic novel. So, I got super excited, thinking it was a graphic novel, presented in the traditional comic book format, and was based on the original short story.
Turns out, I’m an idiot. This is, as far as I can tell, a straight up reissue, although I do think the cover is new. The story is plain text, and the artwork, which once again, is outstanding, only amounts to a one illustration per chapter.
In my defense, the listing on Edelweiss didn’t really clarify anything for me, and to my knowledge, this book was never marketed as a graphic novel until just recently, but I could be wrong about that. I’m not sure if this short story really qualifies as a graphic novel in the traditional sense, as there are tons of books out there with illustrations. Surely, they aren’t all considered graphic novels!
So, here’s the scoop. If you already own a copy of this book, in one format or another, then you don’t really need this book, unless you just want a digital copy for back- up purposes. There is absolutely nothing new here. The novel will cost you a whopping twelve dollars for 128 pages. However, if you do not already own a copy, this might be your best option. Finding a descent used paperback version may be a daunting task.
I may be the only one who got the wrong impression about this one, however, just in case, I thought I’d mention it and vent my frustrations at the same time.
Overall, despite my frustration and chagrin, I’m still glad I downloaded it- it is a classic, after all.
4 stars
July 21, 2025
I really enjoyed this story. As with other Stephen King short stories I've read, this one is really good. Like 'Children of the Corn' and 'Shawshank Redemption', it is entertaining, to-the-point, and very effective. The writing kept he hooked and I was finished before I knew it.
The story takes place over a year, with 12 intermittent episodes as the mysterious deaths occur with each full moon. The story is told in timeframes of months and a horrific murder/death happens each time. The towns people have their speculations: a wild animal, a drifter, a deranged person with wolf-monster mask and costume. Eventually our wheelchair-bound hero, Marty, discovers the truth.
I honestly liked this better than the 1985 movie 'Silver Bullet'. The movie hit a lot of key points (Grady getting killed while flying his kite at the park, the fireworks scene, Reverend Lowe, and others) but the story flowed better. The book was very readable and quick. I would recommend this to any Stephen King fan. Thanks!
The story takes place over a year, with 12 intermittent episodes as the mysterious deaths occur with each full moon. The story is told in timeframes of months and a horrific murder/death happens each time. The towns people have their speculations: a wild animal, a drifter, a deranged person with wolf-monster mask and costume. Eventually our wheelchair-bound hero, Marty, discovers the truth.
I honestly liked this better than the 1985 movie 'Silver Bullet'. The movie hit a lot of key points (Grady getting killed while flying his kite at the park, the fireworks scene, Reverend Lowe, and others) but the story flowed better. The book was very readable and quick. I would recommend this to any Stephen King fan. Thanks!
October 27, 2017
Welcome to the small town of Tarker’s Mill in Maine. It’s a night in January and a snow blizzard “has choked the sky with snow” and “the wind rises to a shrill scream.” What happens in such an ambience! Terror attack! A bid bad werewolf brutalizes a defenseless man.
Stephen King’s “Cycle of the Werewolf” is a long story and not a full length novel.
Anyways, the werewolf would terrorize the small town for a whole year. Each chapter corresponds to a month.
The hero of the story, Marty Coslaw, is a ten year old boy. Unfortunately, he is wheel chair bound. However, that does not stop him from indulging in some pretty daring activities. He has a somewhat strained relationship with his thirteen year old sister, Kate. I felt there was scope for developing the relationship between the siblings.
The story started out well but faltered in the middle but managed to gain my interest again. I have read this book quite a few times. Mostly on Fridays which happen to be the 13th day of the month. I reread this book for the Goodreads Horror Week.
This book had the potential to be great. It has all the ingredients I seek in my horror novels: isolated small town, a time when technology was not so developed, a terrifying monster and also some elements of mystery. The incorrigible mystery lover in me enjoyed how the identity of the werewolf was revealed. I loved King’s choice of the protagonist as well as the culprit.
I can’t claim to be an expert on King’s work. I have read only a few of his books that were available in my library. But I can safely say - had the author written it as a full length novel it could have been as good as, if not better than, Salem’s Lot. Very few authors can write about terror in small town the way King can (needless statement but made it anyway!)
But, this story has been written by the Stephen King. The writing is good (pretty obvious) and the beautiful yet terrifying illustrations by Berni Wrightson would add to the pleasure of reading.
I have giving the book a rating of 3.5 which I am rounding off to 4.
Stephen King’s “Cycle of the Werewolf” is a long story and not a full length novel.
Anyways, the werewolf would terrorize the small town for a whole year. Each chapter corresponds to a month.
The hero of the story, Marty Coslaw, is a ten year old boy. Unfortunately, he is wheel chair bound. However, that does not stop him from indulging in some pretty daring activities. He has a somewhat strained relationship with his thirteen year old sister, Kate. I felt there was scope for developing the relationship between the siblings.
The story started out well but faltered in the middle but managed to gain my interest again. I have read this book quite a few times. Mostly on Fridays which happen to be the 13th day of the month. I reread this book for the Goodreads Horror Week.
This book had the potential to be great. It has all the ingredients I seek in my horror novels: isolated small town, a time when technology was not so developed, a terrifying monster and also some elements of mystery. The incorrigible mystery lover in me enjoyed how the identity of the werewolf was revealed. I loved King’s choice of the protagonist as well as the culprit.
I can’t claim to be an expert on King’s work. I have read only a few of his books that were available in my library. But I can safely say - had the author written it as a full length novel it could have been as good as, if not better than, Salem’s Lot. Very few authors can write about terror in small town the way King can (needless statement but made it anyway!)
But, this story has been written by the Stephen King. The writing is good (pretty obvious) and the beautiful yet terrifying illustrations by Berni Wrightson would add to the pleasure of reading.
I have giving the book a rating of 3.5 which I am rounding off to 4.
December 2, 2016
Under the light of the full moon, a werewolf stalks the people of Tarker's Mills. Can anyone stop... The Cycle of the Werewolf?!?!?!?
I first read this in high school, younger than my dog is now. It took me a few chapters to realize that Silver Bullet was based on it. Anyway, I found it for a buck at a yard sale a couple years ago and decided I could use a reread.
Like Kemper told me while I was reading it, Cycle of the Werewolf is essentially a Stephen King calendar. Each chapter is a month out of the year the werewolf is stalking the town, accompanied by one or more of Bernie Wrightson's fantastic illustrations. Stephen King's writing is as crisp as ever. Also, he wrote this during his prime so it isn't bloated or over-written in the least.
I actually prefer the movie in this case. It has a lot more depth. Marty Coslaw doesn't show up until halfway through the book. The book and movie hit most of the same beats. I think the book might rely on Bernie Wrightson's illustrations a little too much. For the most part, it's just a collection of werewolf attacks with not a lot else going on. That being said, I did like the structure, with every chapter being a month of the werewolf's reign of terror.
While it is strictly a B-list Stephen King book, Cycle of the Werewolf is by far the best Stephen King novel ever turned into a movie starring Cory Haim and Gary Busey. Three out of five stars.
I first read this in high school, younger than my dog is now. It took me a few chapters to realize that Silver Bullet was based on it. Anyway, I found it for a buck at a yard sale a couple years ago and decided I could use a reread.
Like Kemper told me while I was reading it, Cycle of the Werewolf is essentially a Stephen King calendar. Each chapter is a month out of the year the werewolf is stalking the town, accompanied by one or more of Bernie Wrightson's fantastic illustrations. Stephen King's writing is as crisp as ever. Also, he wrote this during his prime so it isn't bloated or over-written in the least.
I actually prefer the movie in this case. It has a lot more depth. Marty Coslaw doesn't show up until halfway through the book. The book and movie hit most of the same beats. I think the book might rely on Bernie Wrightson's illustrations a little too much. For the most part, it's just a collection of werewolf attacks with not a lot else going on. That being said, I did like the structure, with every chapter being a month of the werewolf's reign of terror.
While it is strictly a B-list Stephen King book, Cycle of the Werewolf is by far the best Stephen King novel ever turned into a movie starring Cory Haim and Gary Busey. Three out of five stars.
October 3, 2015
After I abandoned two werewolf novels -- The Silver Wolf by Alice Borchardt and Bitten by Kelley Armstrong -- that were nothing but Kibble, I ran for cover with Cycle of the Werewolf, a lycanthrope tale that I knew would deliver, authored by Stephen King and illustrated by Bernie Wrightson, the artist who'd collaborated with King on the motion picture Creepshow.
Published in limited edition hardcover in 1983 and mass market paperback in 1985, the project was the brainstorm of Land of Enchantment Press, which approached King to pen twelve 500-word vignettes based on the months of the calendar, with illustrations by Wrightson to accompany them. King apparently found this production quota too restrictive and fleshed the vignettes into short chapters based on the concept of a werewolf, slave to (an astronomically creative version of) the lunar cycle, terrorizing the fictional town of Tarker's Mills.
The novella was thriftier than I remembered. If the car wash is busy, you could probably read the book in the time it takes to get your ride washed and waxed. The vignettes are ghoulishly fun, EC Comics inspired tales of terror with a werewolf stalking a fresh victim. The monster movie or horror comics fan hiding in you will jump right out. Wrightson's illustrations, which include beautifully rendered two-page black and white spreads introducing the new month, are timelessly captivating.
The vignettes are ultimately pulled together by Marty Coslaw, a member of the league which would include Mark Petrie in 'Salem's Lot and The Loser's Club in It, children who've read all the monster movie magazines, collected the toys and recognize the threat to their community before the grown-ups. Marty stands out by virtue of being disabled (he's confined to a wheelchair) and his relationship with his Uncle Al, who proves to be a more attentive parent than Marty's mother or father.
The first thing Marty saw were the exotic Chinese markings on the package's label. Then he saw what was inside, and his heart seemed to squeeze up in his chest. The cellophane package was full of fireworks.
"The ones that look like pyramids are Twizzlers," Uncle Al said.
Marty, absolutely stunned with joy, moved his lips to speak, but nothing came out.
"Light the fuses, set them down, and they spray as many colors as there are on a dragon's breath. The tubes with the sticks coming out of them are bottle-rockets. Put them in an empty Coke bottle and up they go. The little ones are fountains. There are two Roman candles ... and of course, a package of firecrackers. But you better set those off tomorrow."
When King shares Marty's reaction to his uncle sneaking him a bag of fireworks so his nephew can salvage the Fourth of July celebration he'd been looking forward to before the killings cancelled it, Marty and Uncle Al cease being characters and become more like friends. I have to keep reading to make sure my friends will be okay from the werewolf.
Cycle of the Werewolf reminded me of why King is such a popular author. The blood and guts lives up to the title of the book, sure, but anyone can throw fantastic violence at the reader. King's endurance is due to his characters, who come across as real folks, the kind I imagine King spotted at his local hardware store working on home improvement projects and maybe knocking back a six-pack of Black Label beer afterwards, ordinary folks who happen to be dealing with some extraordinary shit.
A 1985 film version adapted by King as Silver Bullet featured Corey Haim as Marty and Gary Busey as Uncle Al. While giving the viewer more of these characters (never a leading man, Busey earns every dollar of his affordably priced fee), it's simply a conventional creature feature. A portmanteau type film consisting of twelve werewolf stories for each month of the year (like the bestselling book, duh) would've been much more exciting.
Published in limited edition hardcover in 1983 and mass market paperback in 1985, the project was the brainstorm of Land of Enchantment Press, which approached King to pen twelve 500-word vignettes based on the months of the calendar, with illustrations by Wrightson to accompany them. King apparently found this production quota too restrictive and fleshed the vignettes into short chapters based on the concept of a werewolf, slave to (an astronomically creative version of) the lunar cycle, terrorizing the fictional town of Tarker's Mills.
The novella was thriftier than I remembered. If the car wash is busy, you could probably read the book in the time it takes to get your ride washed and waxed. The vignettes are ghoulishly fun, EC Comics inspired tales of terror with a werewolf stalking a fresh victim. The monster movie or horror comics fan hiding in you will jump right out. Wrightson's illustrations, which include beautifully rendered two-page black and white spreads introducing the new month, are timelessly captivating.
The vignettes are ultimately pulled together by Marty Coslaw, a member of the league which would include Mark Petrie in 'Salem's Lot and The Loser's Club in It, children who've read all the monster movie magazines, collected the toys and recognize the threat to their community before the grown-ups. Marty stands out by virtue of being disabled (he's confined to a wheelchair) and his relationship with his Uncle Al, who proves to be a more attentive parent than Marty's mother or father.
The first thing Marty saw were the exotic Chinese markings on the package's label. Then he saw what was inside, and his heart seemed to squeeze up in his chest. The cellophane package was full of fireworks.
"The ones that look like pyramids are Twizzlers," Uncle Al said.
Marty, absolutely stunned with joy, moved his lips to speak, but nothing came out.
"Light the fuses, set them down, and they spray as many colors as there are on a dragon's breath. The tubes with the sticks coming out of them are bottle-rockets. Put them in an empty Coke bottle and up they go. The little ones are fountains. There are two Roman candles ... and of course, a package of firecrackers. But you better set those off tomorrow."
When King shares Marty's reaction to his uncle sneaking him a bag of fireworks so his nephew can salvage the Fourth of July celebration he'd been looking forward to before the killings cancelled it, Marty and Uncle Al cease being characters and become more like friends. I have to keep reading to make sure my friends will be okay from the werewolf.
Cycle of the Werewolf reminded me of why King is such a popular author. The blood and guts lives up to the title of the book, sure, but anyone can throw fantastic violence at the reader. King's endurance is due to his characters, who come across as real folks, the kind I imagine King spotted at his local hardware store working on home improvement projects and maybe knocking back a six-pack of Black Label beer afterwards, ordinary folks who happen to be dealing with some extraordinary shit.
A 1985 film version adapted by King as Silver Bullet featured Corey Haim as Marty and Gary Busey as Uncle Al. While giving the viewer more of these characters (never a leading man, Busey earns every dollar of his affordably priced fee), it's simply a conventional creature feature. A portmanteau type film consisting of twelve werewolf stories for each month of the year (like the bestselling book, duh) would've been much more exciting.
October 10, 2023
Another book that has been on my 'to read' list for many years. This is a wonderful combination: story by Stephen King and art by Berni Wrightson. The story takes place over a year when the full moon triggers a rash of murders that overtake the sleepy town of Tarker Mills. The story weaves through the lives of many people - the toll of victims touching more people every month. Great read right before Halloween!
October 31, 2019
I love werewolves and I cannot lie. *lol*
No idea why werewolves, of all mystical creatures, are what I love so much. Maybe it's the animal aspect. But I've always loved tales about them so when I heard that the King of Horror had written a story about a werewolf, of course I had to read it.
We're in Tarker's Mills, Maine, in 1984. The book is divided into 12 chapters, each depicting the events (or one specific event) in the respective month of the year. So we start in January and come full circle by the end of the book.
In between, we get winter snows, blizzards, downpours, sunshine, kite-fyling, fireworks, and slaughter. Oh, so much glorious slaughter! This beast really is hungry - for the thrill of the hunt as much as the blood/meat itself.
The reader gets to investigate who of the townspeople could be this mythological creature while the bodies pile up.
In addition to the story, this edition also has illustrations by Bernie Wrightson. I really liked his gritty depictions of key scenes in every chapter, which is why I posted them in my 12 status updates. There are a few more, all in black-and-white, but the main illustrations are in colour. And I loved them. The wolf wasn't always depicted the way SK had described it in the text but that was OK. There are a lot of different ways werewolves are portrayed and I'm glad this artist's rendition was exactly how I "see" them too.
A nice little story with a lot of dread and a sense of unease. Slow and creeping horror, prefect while you're crawling up under a nice warm blanket. Perfect book to conclude this Spooktober too.
No idea why werewolves, of all mystical creatures, are what I love so much. Maybe it's the animal aspect. But I've always loved tales about them so when I heard that the King of Horror had written a story about a werewolf, of course I had to read it.
We're in Tarker's Mills, Maine, in 1984. The book is divided into 12 chapters, each depicting the events (or one specific event) in the respective month of the year. So we start in January and come full circle by the end of the book.
In between, we get winter snows, blizzards, downpours, sunshine, kite-fyling, fireworks, and slaughter. Oh, so much glorious slaughter! This beast really is hungry - for the thrill of the hunt as much as the blood/meat itself.
The reader gets to investigate who of the townspeople could be this mythological creature while the bodies pile up.
In addition to the story, this edition also has illustrations by Bernie Wrightson. I really liked his gritty depictions of key scenes in every chapter, which is why I posted them in my 12 status updates. There are a few more, all in black-and-white, but the main illustrations are in colour. And I loved them. The wolf wasn't always depicted the way SK had described it in the text but that was OK. There are a lot of different ways werewolves are portrayed and I'm glad this artist's rendition was exactly how I "see" them too.
A nice little story with a lot of dread and a sense of unease. Slow and creeping horror, prefect while you're crawling up under a nice warm blanket. Perfect book to conclude this Spooktober too.
June 16, 2024
This is a short story that is basically Stephen King's shot at telling a werewolf story. The difference is where the cycle comes into play. We basically go month by month in the calendar year and see how the werewolf is affecting the confines of a small town.
This easily exceeded my expectations. I am not the biggest fan of the werewolf lore and I knew this was written many, many years ago. Being a short story on top of that and I was not really expecting much. Right away I realized that this was going to exceed these expectations. I really enjoyed the idea of the storytelling of going month to month. It is a great way to build up the tension for the reader as well as the townsfolk. I have always thought that King excels when he is telling a story about everyday people and that is what this short story is about. Whether it is the abused wife or the handicapped child we get a glimpse of their lives and what is hidden behind your neighbor's doors. It was just a glimpse as this is a short story. Accompanying each month is illustrations that will depict the current scene. This was a two edged sword. I loved the illustrations but sometimes they came before the scene happened and they ended up being spoilers.
This was a very quick read as it just over one hundred pages. Even with this short length this story packed a punch. There was the mythology of the werewolf that King followed and really did not add much. There was also the look into the overall town and the pall that hung over the town because of the cumulative murders. Then there was the illustrations that I previously mentioned. I really enjoyed my time with this story and I wish this was at least a novella. I would have loved a full length novel of this story.
This easily exceeded my expectations. I am not the biggest fan of the werewolf lore and I knew this was written many, many years ago. Being a short story on top of that and I was not really expecting much. Right away I realized that this was going to exceed these expectations. I really enjoyed the idea of the storytelling of going month to month. It is a great way to build up the tension for the reader as well as the townsfolk. I have always thought that King excels when he is telling a story about everyday people and that is what this short story is about. Whether it is the abused wife or the handicapped child we get a glimpse of their lives and what is hidden behind your neighbor's doors. It was just a glimpse as this is a short story. Accompanying each month is illustrations that will depict the current scene. This was a two edged sword. I loved the illustrations but sometimes they came before the scene happened and they ended up being spoilers.
This was a very quick read as it just over one hundred pages. Even with this short length this story packed a punch. There was the mythology of the werewolf that King followed and really did not add much. There was also the look into the overall town and the pall that hung over the town because of the cumulative murders. Then there was the illustrations that I previously mentioned. I really enjoyed my time with this story and I wish this was at least a novella. I would have loved a full length novel of this story.
February 18, 2020
A really quick, fun read. A small forest town in Maine (where else) sees a new brutal killing happen during the full moon. The main character is a crippled kid who has an eerie encounter with the creature midway through the book, and before long becomes its target. Don't let its shortness put you off; it's still Stephen King and it's a fun werewolf story.
January 22, 2019
This is a really good book. It was also adapted into a film called Silver Bullet starring Gary Busey. I enjoyed both.🐯👍
October 2, 2021
In Cycle of the Werewolf, Stephen King's shortest novel to date (it's actually technically a novella), the fictional town of Tarker's Mills, Maine is terrorized by a werewolf who emerges once every month, when the moon is full, from January all the way to December in an unspecified year, claiming victims and leading the town to believe there is a human serial killer who only kills when the moon is full. They eventually dub this mysterious murderer "The Full Moon Killer", though eventually rumours begin to spread amongst the people of the town that the culprit is really a werewolf. Most dismiss these rumours as childish foolishness, but the reader is shown the truth from the very beginning.
I generally really enjoyed this book. It's illustrated, and the illustrations are very nice. I read some other GR reviews of this book where some reviewers said they read this as an ebook and that the illustrations were in black and white. If that's true it's a real shame; I bought an old 80s paperback copy and the illustrations are all in colour, which I feel really helped in bringing the story to life. If they were black and white I don't think you'd get the full effect.
The characters are mostly throwaway, either victims of the werewolf who are, of course, quickly killed, or minor characters in the town. Few characters repeat anywhere in the book, but there are a few that become repeating characters from just after the halfway point in the story until the end of the book, and I thought they were pretty well done. There isn't much you can do to build great characters in a 127-page novella, and probably over one-third of this book was either blank pages, the pages listing what month it is, or art, so really King probably only had something like 80 pages or less of prose with which to develop characters, but I think he did an OK job.
Some things I didn't like. For whatever reason, maybe it's werewolf lore I'm just not familiar with, the werewolf's eyes change colour as the book goes on (do werewolf eyes change colour as the year progresses?). In the early chapters/months, the eyes are yellow, but as the book goes on the eyes turn to yellow-green, and eventually are described as green by the end. Despite this, the art, even in the months where the eyes are described as yellow, always shows them as green throughout the book. This seemed a little inconsistent to me.
Also, I found it a little too clean and convenient that the werewolf happens to start terrorizing the town in January, at the beginning of the year, and that the terror ends exactly one year, twelve months, later on New Year's Eve. Why not have the werewolf start in some random month, like September, and terrorize the town for a random amount of months, like eleven months, ending the next July? That would have made it seem a bit more realistic; as it's written, it looks a bit too nicely wrapped up in a neat, tidy bow.
Another thing was that I guessed the identity of the werewolf really early on. This was disappointing, but oddly I was still a bit shocked when it was actually revealed that this person was the werewolf, which I think is a testament to King's abilities as a writer; you know what's going to happen ahead of time, but it's still shocking when it happens!
Overall, I definitely recommend Cycle of the Werewolf. It's very short, and can be read quickly; I was able to finish it in about three days, and I'm a slow reader. A faster reader could easily read this in a day or two. It's also a great entry point if you're looking to get into King. It's nowhere near as scary as his lengthier novels, but it shows you enough of his good traits as a writer, and has the creepy factor he is known for. Conversely, those who are already fans would also likely enjoy it as something different than the normal King fare, as it's very short and illustrated. So, in my opinion, there's something for everyone in this book. Check it out (but in paperback, so you get colour illustrations ;).
I generally really enjoyed this book. It's illustrated, and the illustrations are very nice. I read some other GR reviews of this book where some reviewers said they read this as an ebook and that the illustrations were in black and white. If that's true it's a real shame; I bought an old 80s paperback copy and the illustrations are all in colour, which I feel really helped in bringing the story to life. If they were black and white I don't think you'd get the full effect.
The characters are mostly throwaway, either victims of the werewolf who are, of course, quickly killed, or minor characters in the town. Few characters repeat anywhere in the book, but there are a few that become repeating characters from just after the halfway point in the story until the end of the book, and I thought they were pretty well done. There isn't much you can do to build great characters in a 127-page novella, and probably over one-third of this book was either blank pages, the pages listing what month it is, or art, so really King probably only had something like 80 pages or less of prose with which to develop characters, but I think he did an OK job.
Some things I didn't like. For whatever reason, maybe it's werewolf lore I'm just not familiar with, the werewolf's eyes change colour as the book goes on (do werewolf eyes change colour as the year progresses?). In the early chapters/months, the eyes are yellow, but as the book goes on the eyes turn to yellow-green, and eventually are described as green by the end. Despite this, the art, even in the months where the eyes are described as yellow, always shows them as green throughout the book. This seemed a little inconsistent to me.
Also, I found it a little too clean and convenient that the werewolf happens to start terrorizing the town in January, at the beginning of the year, and that the terror ends exactly one year, twelve months, later on New Year's Eve. Why not have the werewolf start in some random month, like September, and terrorize the town for a random amount of months, like eleven months, ending the next July? That would have made it seem a bit more realistic; as it's written, it looks a bit too nicely wrapped up in a neat, tidy bow.
Another thing was that I guessed the identity of the werewolf really early on. This was disappointing, but oddly I was still a bit shocked when it was actually revealed that this person was the werewolf, which I think is a testament to King's abilities as a writer; you know what's going to happen ahead of time, but it's still shocking when it happens!
Overall, I definitely recommend Cycle of the Werewolf. It's very short, and can be read quickly; I was able to finish it in about three days, and I'm a slow reader. A faster reader could easily read this in a day or two. It's also a great entry point if you're looking to get into King. It's nowhere near as scary as his lengthier novels, but it shows you enough of his good traits as a writer, and has the creepy factor he is known for. Conversely, those who are already fans would also likely enjoy it as something different than the normal King fare, as it's very short and illustrated. So, in my opinion, there's something for everyone in this book. Check it out (but in paperback, so you get colour illustrations ;).
July 10, 2022
Despite its short length I honestly think this book has clawed its way into my top five King stories. I was sucked into the story right from the very first page and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough to find out what would happen and before I knew it, I was already finished it and completely head over heels in love! Something about this story just captured my interest instantly and cemented itself as a new favourite. It’s got great characters, suspense, horror, monsters and pretty much everything else you could possibly ask for! And the illustrations are just STUNNING and really bring this fabulous story to life!
March 23, 2025
If you're someone who generally avoids Stephen King's work because you're not a fan of his brand of wordiness, don't make the mistake of dismissing Cycle of the Werewolf, especially if you enjoy a good werewolf tale. This is a succinct and fun story with the typical King markers of small town Maine and excellent writing, without the digressions and lengthy descriptive paragraphs that put some people off (not this Constant Reader, mind you, but I know it's a common complaint from many about King). And you have the added bonus of Bernie Wrightson's wonderful illustrations. I loved Marty Coslaw and his Uncle Al.
September 21, 2016
Fun, fast, and frightening.
Great pictures that make the story come to life. Terrific tale of a town terrified once every month; and even though it's short it has characters that grab you and make you care, as you read of each full moon rising. It was first meant to be a calendar, one short story for each month (it would have been kind of neat, reminding you to be on the lookout that one night every month), so the words are sparse. Somewhere along the way that idea was abandoned for some reason (perhaps King has an issue with brevity?) and I'm supposing more words were added to fill it out a bit more. In my opinion, he could/should have gone whole hog with this and added much more to it...more about the small town and characters, because King knows how to create a really great werewolf....plus there is the mystery of just who he is by day, and has the perfect hero with a very big disadvantage! But, it is what it is and it is still good! You can read this in close to an hour --unless, like me, you stare at the incredible pictures too long! Go grab it--perfect for the upcoming holiday! Also a good one for youngish*/new readers, who have not yet read King's books. This one's perfect to "cut their teeth on" (ha)....could be a nice read along in October. Great Movie, to--in fact, I'm off to watch The Silver Bullet right now!!!
***Not TOO young....there are graphic descriptions of the attacks and just a teeny bit of sexuality, Interestingly this version was created for schools and libraries, But you definitely don't want to give young children nightmares! .... And the movie IS rated R...so if they are a bit young, yet can handle the subject matter, you might want to find it on television (edited) for them.... I'm thinking High School....?
Great pictures that make the story come to life. Terrific tale of a town terrified once every month; and even though it's short it has characters that grab you and make you care, as you read of each full moon rising. It was first meant to be a calendar, one short story for each month (it would have been kind of neat, reminding you to be on the lookout that one night every month), so the words are sparse. Somewhere along the way that idea was abandoned for some reason (perhaps King has an issue with brevity?) and I'm supposing more words were added to fill it out a bit more. In my opinion, he could/should have gone whole hog with this and added much more to it...more about the small town and characters, because King knows how to create a really great werewolf....plus there is the mystery of just who he is by day, and has the perfect hero with a very big disadvantage! But, it is what it is and it is still good! You can read this in close to an hour --unless, like me, you stare at the incredible pictures too long! Go grab it--perfect for the upcoming holiday! Also a good one for youngish*/new readers, who have not yet read King's books. This one's perfect to "cut their teeth on" (ha)....could be a nice read along in October. Great Movie, to--in fact, I'm off to watch The Silver Bullet right now!!!
***Not TOO young....there are graphic descriptions of the attacks and just a teeny bit of sexuality, Interestingly this version was created for schools and libraries, But you definitely don't want to give young children nightmares! .... And the movie IS rated R...so if they are a bit young, yet can handle the subject matter, you might want to find it on television (edited) for them.... I'm thinking High School....?
March 2, 2024
this kind of has the vibe of teen wolf and midnight mass. i was not expecting to have as much fun as i did but i should’ve because ive always stated stephen king excels at writing from the perspective of children. i definitely do think other people will find this boring but im just a girl that grew up with a werewolf obsessed so take that as you will.
February 12, 2021
“There is nothing of God or Light in that heartless sound - it is all black winter and dark ice.”
The plot of this one is pretty straightforward, it follows a year in the life of a small town in Maine called Tarker's Mills, on the night of each month's full moon, its residents are terrorized by a murderous werewolf.
I've put off buying this for years because it's very short and it's always been pretty expensive but my other half got it for me as a gift and I've just made it my 55th Stephen King read.
This one is fast-paced, there's not much plot wise, like I said it's straightforward but I did like it; the illustrations by Bernie Wrightson were very good at creating an atmosphere which was perfect for the subject matter.
The plot of this one is pretty straightforward, it follows a year in the life of a small town in Maine called Tarker's Mills, on the night of each month's full moon, its residents are terrorized by a murderous werewolf.
I've put off buying this for years because it's very short and it's always been pretty expensive but my other half got it for me as a gift and I've just made it my 55th Stephen King read.
This one is fast-paced, there's not much plot wise, like I said it's straightforward but I did like it; the illustrations by Bernie Wrightson were very good at creating an atmosphere which was perfect for the subject matter.
January 11, 2021
3.5*
"El aullar del viento parecía tener un tono de salvaje alegría, como si disfrutara con la tragedia. Un sonido horrible, desprovisto de corazón, en el que no había nada de Dios ni de Luz. Todo era negro
invierno y un hielo oscuro que congelaba el alma."
"En la noche algo comenzó a aullar.
Posteriormente nadie supo decir de dónde había llegado aquel siniestro sonido.
Estaba en todas partes y en ninguna, mientras la luna llena plateaba los muros de las
casas oscurecidas del pueblo. Estaba en todas partes y en ninguna, cuando el viento
de marzo comenzó a ganar intensidad y el tétrico aullido resonó como si brotara del
cuerno de caza de un difunto Berserker y era arrastrado por el viento, solitario y
salvaje"
Es una historia que tiene varias características de las historias clásicas de hombres lobo: lo visceral, la superstición, lo sentimental, la dualidad y bastante de inocencia también .A la vez posee lo original en relación al calendario y el ciclo lunar(alterado) que coincide con festividades a nivel mundial y otras características de Estados Unidos. Ademas de contar con as ilustraciones de nada mas y nada menos que Bernie Wrightson.
Pienso que es de celebrar cuando los autores varían en sus argumentos y sus propuestas. Y en lo personal, como digo, creo que tiene varios elementos clásicos y otros bastante originales. Pero tengo la impresión de que hubiera funcionado mejor como una novela grafica de 12 números.
Voy a aprovechar la ocasión para revindicar la adaptación cinematográfica" silver bullet" la cual me gusta bastante y me divierte otro tanto. Aunque debo reconocer que tiene un problema, no menor, es que la criatura en cuestión se parece mas al maestro Splinter que a un licantropo.
"El aullar del viento parecía tener un tono de salvaje alegría, como si disfrutara con la tragedia. Un sonido horrible, desprovisto de corazón, en el que no había nada de Dios ni de Luz. Todo era negro
invierno y un hielo oscuro que congelaba el alma."
"En la noche algo comenzó a aullar.
Posteriormente nadie supo decir de dónde había llegado aquel siniestro sonido.
Estaba en todas partes y en ninguna, mientras la luna llena plateaba los muros de las
casas oscurecidas del pueblo. Estaba en todas partes y en ninguna, cuando el viento
de marzo comenzó a ganar intensidad y el tétrico aullido resonó como si brotara del
cuerno de caza de un difunto Berserker y era arrastrado por el viento, solitario y
salvaje"
Es una historia que tiene varias características de las historias clásicas de hombres lobo: lo visceral, la superstición, lo sentimental, la dualidad y bastante de inocencia también .A la vez posee lo original en relación al calendario y el ciclo lunar(alterado) que coincide con festividades a nivel mundial y otras características de Estados Unidos. Ademas de contar con as ilustraciones de nada mas y nada menos que Bernie Wrightson.
Pienso que es de celebrar cuando los autores varían en sus argumentos y sus propuestas. Y en lo personal, como digo, creo que tiene varios elementos clásicos y otros bastante originales. Pero tengo la impresión de que hubiera funcionado mejor como una novela grafica de 12 números.
Voy a aprovechar la ocasión para revindicar la adaptación cinematográfica" silver bullet" la cual me gusta bastante y me divierte otro tanto. Aunque debo reconocer que tiene un problema, no menor, es que la criatura en cuestión se parece mas al maestro Splinter que a un licantropo.
December 29, 2017
Ok, maybe this classic (but for the monster origin..), straight werewolf tale was too short for a novella an too long for an anthology short tale, I already knew the story and the creature identity having seen lots of times the "Silver bullet" movie based on this one ... but King is still THE KING for me and I loved how he fleshed for good characters and story in just few words here.
And Bernie Wrightson's illustrations are just creepy moody masterworks... the one of the beast ripping off the constable's face is haunting my nightmares since I've seen it on an old horror magazine lots of years ago.
An excellent and very different short tale from the King of horror.
Brrrrr.
December 13, 2024
If Stephen King did an advent calendar, but instead of chocolate or something fun you get werewolf attacks. 🐺
This is a perfect novella, a little over 100 pages, complete with stunning illustrations. Each chapter is a new month of the year, complete with a new horrific scene, and they all tie brilliantly together.
This is a perfect novella, a little over 100 pages, complete with stunning illustrations. Each chapter is a new month of the year, complete with a new horrific scene, and they all tie brilliantly together.
March 30, 2019
3.5 stars
"It was only the wind, after all . . . But the wind doesn't scratch at doors . . . or whine to be let in."
By the end of 1983 author Stephen King had certainly reached a high point in his career. He had two books (Christine in the spring, and Pet Sematary in autumn) debut on the New York Times bestseller list and three successful movie adaptations (again, Christine, as well as Cujo and The Dead Zone) at the theaters. What else did this guy have time for that calendar year? I hope he went on a vacation.
Understandably getting somewhat lost in the shuffle was his Cycle of the Werewolf (a.k.a Silver Bullet, as it was known for the '85 film version), basically a novella jazzed up with some sporadic but usually very graphic full-color artwork. By all accounts the story is garden variety King - the setting is a sleepy New England village populated by the usual archetypes (the proletariats, an abusive spouse, a well-meaning cop, a heartbroken lady, a shrewd teenager, etc.) and, as always, THEN EVIL CAME TO TOWN! Each short chapter covers a month (starting at the beginning of a year), and detail the one werewolf attack that occurs - as all horror fans know - during the night of the full moon. What was pleasantly different from the usual larger-scale King novels was the distinct lack of profanity and vivid descriptions of violence or gore. It's prosaic yet still suspenseful and brisk tale that could be shelved alongside the works of Edgar Allan Poe and/or be used for a high school literature class.
"It was only the wind, after all . . . But the wind doesn't scratch at doors . . . or whine to be let in."
By the end of 1983 author Stephen King had certainly reached a high point in his career. He had two books (Christine in the spring, and Pet Sematary in autumn) debut on the New York Times bestseller list and three successful movie adaptations (again, Christine, as well as Cujo and The Dead Zone) at the theaters. What else did this guy have time for that calendar year? I hope he went on a vacation.
Understandably getting somewhat lost in the shuffle was his Cycle of the Werewolf (a.k.a Silver Bullet, as it was known for the '85 film version), basically a novella jazzed up with some sporadic but usually very graphic full-color artwork. By all accounts the story is garden variety King - the setting is a sleepy New England village populated by the usual archetypes (the proletariats, an abusive spouse, a well-meaning cop, a heartbroken lady, a shrewd teenager, etc.) and, as always, THEN EVIL CAME TO TOWN! Each short chapter covers a month (starting at the beginning of a year), and detail the one werewolf attack that occurs - as all horror fans know - during the night of the full moon. What was pleasantly different from the usual larger-scale King novels was the distinct lack of profanity and vivid descriptions of violence or gore. It's prosaic yet still suspenseful and brisk tale that could be shelved alongside the works of Edgar Allan Poe and/or be used for a high school literature class.
December 6, 2021
Stephen King is better known of his lengthy door stopped sized books but when he does write in a shorter form he excels, which is true of the story in these pages. Cycle of the Werewolf takes place over a year and follows the twelve time’s in the year that a full moon is present. King has always been a fan of old school horror troupes when it comes to his monsters and he makes them work. In Salem’s Lot, his vampires have the traditional weakness and strengths, in this Werewolf it’s the same. The Werewolf only appears during full-moon in these pages and it makes a unique Ray Bradbury like story, only with more blood, to read. What stands out on reading this story is King’s amazing talent for character and in creating the life of a small town. Perfect for people waiting to read a story in one sitting. On a personal level it was enjoyable to have a new King story to explore, especially from his 70s and 80s period.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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