Probably my least favorite King book so far. I was generally really liking the beginning but then it just kind of petered out for me. Also has King's weakest ending for me so far. Not in terms what actually happens but more in terms of pacing since there are like 10 chapters after the big climax that feel way more like the opening to a sequel rather than a kind of epilogue to this story. Characters are still generally solid as most King cast's are but it was probably the cast I was engaged with the least. Also was pretty surprised that of the main characters I think, Charlie, the titular character, has the fewest POV chapters.

A little surprised to find that this is my favorite King book so far. I think it's due in large part to Johnny Smith being my favorite King protagonist. He's such a likable character and having him put through the ringer is terrible but it makes for a hell of a read/listen. Beyond Johnny I found all the characters to be pretty compelling and they are probably one of my favorite King ensembles. After reading this, it does makes sense to me why this book was turned into a TV show. Definitely more sense than The Mist or Under the Dome.

Probably King's simplest book so far but I think that works really well for it. Almost kind of feels like a blown up version of one of his short stories. I had seen the movie prior to listening to the audiobook and while I do prefer some elements there I think the book is still really strong. I also feel like the parallels to war with the long walkers being drafted soldiers comes across more in the book version.