Stephen King is one of the most popular and well-known authors in the world. He has written over 60 novels (fiction and non-fiction) and around 200 short stories. Many of his works have been adapted to film, miniseries, and television series, some having been adapted more than once, and he is the only authors in history to have more than 30 books become number 1 bestsellers.

Most people think of Stephen King as the master of the horror genre, and they wouldn't be wrong; King is possibly best known for his horror novels such as Carrie, Pet Sematary and The Shining. Other than frighten us with his chilling tales, however, King has had a huge impact on popular culture and shaped the media as we know it today.

In addition to unnerving us with his stories, he also gives us deep tales of family, friends, and life. Books like It taught us about friendship and coming together to face our greatest fears, while Cujo showed us the strain of family life and the fight to keep it together. Other novels and stories that have less of a horror focus make us feel just present as the others. The Green Mile will make you cry like a baby because you feel so close to the characters and "The Body" will take you back to times of your own self-discovery.

My point here is that Stephen King, while delivering wonderful fright, also allows us to feel. He is so capable in his craft that he can make us laugh, cry, and shiver with fear all in one book like no other author can.

Everyone is left with different thoughts after every book they read, some people may get a message where someone else just got entertainment. King's ability to make every character feel real and authentic allows us to attribute their stories to our lives; so don't go into a Stephen King book only expecting to sleep with the light on. His works are much more complex than that. Stephen King has defined generations and continues to do so. He inspires readers through his works and encourages hopeful authors with his success.

So even if you hate being scared, take a deeper look at Mr. King's work. You surely won't be disappointed and you'll come away with more than fear.