Books · CONTENT GUIDE

The Shining

The Shining is a 1977 horror novel by American author Stephen King. It is King's third published novel and first hardcover bestseller; its success firmly established King as a preeminent author in the horror genre.

Credits

Wikipedia contributors, The Shining (novel) · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Modified for this entry.

Parents Guide

Partially reviewed
Version covered

Stephen King's English novel, 1977 Doubleday publication identified by review; exact printing/ISBN unspecified. Excludes films, miniseries, Doctor Sleep and deleted prologue/epilogue. Publisher must verify canonical author and edition mapping.

Violence

Moderate

Jack has a history of domestic abuse toward his wife and young son, and an earlier assault on a student is discussed.

Alcohol, drugs & smoking

Strong

Alcohol addiction, sobriety and vulnerability to relapse are central to Jack's deterioration and family conflict.

Frightening & intense themes

Strong

A snowbound family faces a haunted hotel, a decomposing ghost, frightening visions and a father's growing danger to his wife and child.

Unlisted categories are unassessed. Content can vary by cut or edition.

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Time, story & content

TIME FORGE

How long does it take?

13h 48m

Average reading time

Focused reading
13h 30m
Comfortable reading
15 hr
Reflective / study reading
20h 15m

At 200 words per minute

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SPOILER CENTRAL

The story

A full story write-up is available.

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