Stephen King's The Dead Zone is praised for its compelling plot and deep character development. The novel expertly blends supernatural elements with a political thriller, gripping readers from start to finish. However, some critique its pacing, noting occasional slow spots. Overall, it's a well-regarded classic that showcases King's storytelling prowess.

Readers who would enjoy The Dead Zone by Stephen King are typically fans of psychological thrillers with supernatural elements. They may also appreciate the intricate narratives found in books like Firestarter by Stephen King and The Shining by Stephen King. These readers seek character-driven stories with suspense and moral dilemmas.

In Stephen King's The Dead Zone, Johnny Smith awakens from a years-long coma with the ability to see visions of the future by touching people, grappling with public attention and using his powers to help solve a murder case and ultimately prevent a catastrophic political future. The book includes mention of sexual assault.

Mysterious / Dark / Suspenseful / Unnerving / Emotional

- The Dead Zone was Stephen King's first novel to feature the concept of second sight, which he revisited in later works such as Doctor Sleep.
- The novel was the first of King's books to hit the number one spot on the New York Times bestseller list.
- Actor Christopher Walken played the lead role of Johnny Smith in the 1983 movie adaptation of The Dead Zone, directed by David Cronenberg.

**Johnny Smith**  
A young man who undergoes a major transformation after a car accident that leaves him in a coma; he grapples with changes in his personal relationships and discovers a new supernatural ability.

**Greg Stillson**  
A charming but corrupt politician who conceals a violent and ambitious nature while presenting himself as an anti-establishment figure.

**Sarah**  
Johnny's girlfriend and fellow teacher who struggles with her feelings and life choices after Johnny's accident, eventually finding love and starting a family with another man.

**Vera Smith**  
Johnny's mother, whose devout Christian beliefs become increasingly extreme after Johnny's accident, influencing her worldview and relationship with her son.

**Herb Smith**  
Johnny's father, a hardworking and moral carpenter who supports his family through difficult times and grapples with guilt over his reactions to Johnny's condition.

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Before You Read

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Overview

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The Dead Zone Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Wheel of Fortune”

Prologue and Part 1, Chapters 1-8

The Dead Zone Prologue and Part 1, Chapters 1-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 9-16

The Dead Zone Part 1, Chapters 9-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Laughing Tiger”

Part 2, Chapters 17-21

The Dead Zone Part 2, Chapters 17-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 22-27

The Dead Zone Part 2, Chapters 22-27 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Notes from the Dead Zone”

Part 3 The Dead Zone Part 3 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Dead Zone Character Analysis

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The Dead Zone Themes

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The Dead Zone Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Dead Zone Important Quotes

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The Dead Zone Essay Topics

The Dead Zone

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