Which standalone Stephen King Novel should I read first?

[Tobias]

I've read some of his works before but not any of his more popular ones, they all have mixed feelings from reviewers for them so I'm conflicted on what to start with.

[Kristi]

I love “The Shining” it’s a good one to get started into the creepiness that is King.
If you’re looking for a trilogy the Bill Hodges trilogy is great- it starts with “Mr. Mercedes”
Or if you want a bit older school “Salems Lot” or “Pet Sematary”

Guess I love Stephen King lol

[Christine]

"It" is wonderful.
I also enjoyed "11-22-63".
"Misery" is a good one.
However, I was disappointed with "The Shining". Watch the Stanley Kubrick movie instead, it's a lot better than the novel.

[Doris]

If you can find it, try "The Raft". It's a shorter story and may not fit your 'novel' requirement.

[Doris]

or you could try Christine

[Michael]

The Shining is a great place to start. Also Pet Sematary.

"The Raft" (in one of his short story collections) scared me to death. I read it years ago and I still think about it from time to time.

[Rissa (rissasreading)]

One of the very first ones I read was The Mist. it's short and set in mainly just one location and is very Lovecraftian

[Sam]

I've read Cell and Dreamcatcher. They were both pretty decent.

[Simon]

The Stand or It.

[Katlyn]

the shining is not a stand alone. there is a sequel to it called dr.sleep.

[Julie]

Misery or Carrie is always a good way to start.

[Diane]

Carrie Or Cujo are both excellent

[Julia]

If you are in the mood for something light try The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordon or maybe Dreamcatcher. Misery is always a good one.. :)

[sarah]

Salem's Lot

[Christine]

I have the pop up book of "The Girl who loved Tom Gordon.

[Michael]

Pet Semetary is a good place to start.

Others have suggested "The Raft" or "The Mist." Both of those are in the short story collection Skeleton Crew- which is another good place to start.