Stephen Edwin King (born September 21, 1947) is a prolific American author renowned for his contributions to horror, supernatural fiction, suspense, and fantasy literature. Often referred to as the "King of Horror," he has published over 60 novels and approximately 200 short stories, many of which have been adapted into films, television series, and miniseries.

Early Life and Education

Stephen King was born in Portland, Maine, to Donald and Nellie Ruth King. When Stephen was two years old, his father abandoned the family, leaving Nellie to raise Stephen and his older brother, David, alone. The family faced financial hardships, moving frequently before settling in Durham, Maine. King developed an early interest in horror and science fiction, influenced by authors like H.P. Lovecraft and Richard Matheson. He attended the University of Maine, earning a Bachelor of Arts in English in 1970. During his college years, he wrote a column for the student newspaper and met his future wife, Tabitha Spruce.

Writing Career

After college, King worked as a high school English teacher while writing short stories for men's magazines to supplement his income. His breakthrough came with the novel Carrie (1974), which he initially discarded but was rescued by Tabitha. The book's success allowed him to become a full-time writer. Subsequent notable works include Salem's Lot (1975), The Shining (1977), The Stand (1978), and It (1986). King has also written under the pseudonym Richard Bachman to publish additional works without saturating the market under his name.

Personal Life

Stephen King married Tabitha Spruce in 1971. They have three children: Naomi, Joe, and Owen. Joe Hill and Owen King have both pursued writing careers. The family resides in Bangor, Maine, and also owns a home in Florida. King is known for his support of various charitable causes and has donated millions to libraries, schools, and arts organizations.

Adaptations and Influence

King's works have been widely adapted into various media. Notable film adaptations include The Shining (1980), Misery (1990), The Shawshank Redemption (1994), and It (2017). His storytelling has significantly influenced popular culture, and he is credited with reviving the horror genre in the late 20th century.

Awards and Honors

Stephen King has received numerous awards, including the Bram Stoker Award, World Fantasy Award, and the National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters in 2003. In 2015, he was awarded the National Medal of Arts by the U.S. National Endowment for the Arts.

References

• Stephen King - Wikipedia
• Stephen King | Biography, Books, Movies, TV Shows, & Facts | Britannica
• The Author - Stephen King