(WPF) The Gunslinger / Stephen King - 2.5***

[Book Concierge]

The Gunslinger – Stephen King
Digital audio performed by George Guidall
2.5**

This is the first in the novels that comprise King’s epic odyssey “Dark Tower” series. It’s an odd mixture of classic Western mixed with science fiction, fantasy and horror. In it, he introduces the reader to Roland Deschain, a “gunslinger. ” Haunted and determined, Roland wanders a bleak landscape in search of the man in black, determined to eradicate evil. It’s an odd setting – a civilization in ruins that bears some resemblance to the United States, but that is fantastical enough to make this reader wonder if this is another world entirely.

Among the characters he encounters are Jake Chambers, a young boy from New York, whom he befriends and who accompanies Roland on his meandering journey. Some people they meet are helpful, others a danger to them. I found most of these encounters strange and unsettling, and, in at least one instance, quite frightening.

There is something about Roland that makes me want to follow him, that makes me believe that he is “a good guy” and the kind of hero I want to cheer for. Still, I’m left with far more questions than answers, and a general sense of unease. As much as I love Stephen King, I really have no desire to continue the series to find out what happens next.

George Guidall does a fine job performing the audio. He really makes these characters come alive.




LINK to my review

[Rachel N.]

I've only read the first three books in the Dark Tower series so far but if you are at all interested in one day continuing the series the next book The Drawing of the Three is so much better than this book.

[Sue]

Glad to hear the next book is better. The Gunslinger left me wondering why The Dark Tower Series is so popular!