A Review of The Outsider by Stephen King

This book tells the story of a murder investigation of gruesome proportions, and the strange occurrences surrounding it.  When little league baseball coach Terry Maitland is arrested for the murder, the fictional town of Flint City, Oklahoma can scarcely believe it. How could someone who worked so closely with children turn and murder one of the town’s very own kids. The physical evidence is overwhelming against Maitland, until his alibi is confirmed with its own undeniable evidence. Could he really be in two places at once? Does this open up the suspect pool to other individuals, or other entities entirely?

The different points of view provide a well-rounded look at all facets of the investigation and how it affects different people. The book definitely starts out as a typical crime story, but as it progresses it turns into the thriller that King meant for it to be all along. Of course, this comes with the typical King style of breathy, overly detailed writing. Some people may be left thinking “get to the point!” while those who enjoy King’s extensive detail will no doubt be captivated.

I had a hard time putting this one down. I seemed plagued with the typical reader’s conundrum of wanting to know what happens without wanting the book to end. It was just packed full of detailed narration that got me hooked from the beginning.

I definitely recommend this title for all King fans, as well as people who like crime novels.