The Running Man by Stephen King Summary and Reviews
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Book Reviews of The Running Man
Book Review: this book hits frighteningly close to home
Summary: 5 Stars
First off, if you have seen the movie prior to reading the book and are expecting a similar story, AVOID THIS BOOK LIKE THE PLAGUE. The character created by King in Ben Richards, is a scrawny, down trodden man, desperate to save his family, even if it means risking his life. HE is no where even close to the muscular, hulkying, action hero architype portrayed by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the film.
It is really a shame, that they screwed the story up so badly, because as a movie the book would be great. It's fast passed, with plenty of action, a simple enough premise, but not one which is trite or boreing, great characters, and message (albiet a unsettling one)of an all too plausible dystopia.
Back when it was published, the book had a great story. To todays ready, it is a great story, bolstered by the real shows we see everyday. Sure we don't kill people, but it can't be denied that we enjoying watching the discomfort, even the suffering of others. Shows like "the Chamber" and "Dog eat Dog" and "fear factor" or even "the swan" are akin to the sick game shows viewed by the society of The Running man.
And with the increasing addiction of the young people of our country to TV, and with the increased sense of apathy and an all around lack of reading, it is easy to see how huge mega corparations could monopolize and dominate our society.
So in the end, this is an all around excellent book, I highly recommend it to both SciFi fans and non SciFi fans alike. Also while you're at it you should check out the other "Bachman books". In particular "Rage" (if you can find it. it's out of print) and "The Long Walk"
Book Review: very good
Summary: 5 Stars
not the best stephen king book i've read but still very cool book. a must read