Misery — Reader’s Companion & Study Guide

A bestselling novelist. His self-proclaimed number-one fan. And a nightmare from which there appears to be no escape.

After a serious car accident, novelist Paul Sheldon wakes to discover that he has been rescued by Annie Wilkes, a former nurse and devoted reader of his popular Misery Chastain novels.

At first, Annie appears to be Paul's saviour. But when she discovers what Paul has done to her favourite fictional character, her admiration becomes increasingly dangerous.

Trapped, injured and entirely dependent upon Annie, Paul is forced to write a new Misery novel while desperately searching for a way to survive his increasingly unpredictable captor.

This comprehensive Coleman’s Notes® Reader’s Companion helps readers explore Stephen King’s claustrophobic psychological horror novel, its characters, structure, symbolism and fascinating examination of the relationship between writer and reader.

Inside the guide: A detailed plot summary; comprehensive reading companion; in-depth character analysis; Paul Sheldon; Annie Wilkes; the Misery Chastain novels; Paul as prisoner and writer; Annie’s changing behaviour; the typewriter and manuscript; captivity and survival; creativity under pressure; addiction and dependency; power and control; violence and psychological terror; writer and reader relationships; themes and symbolism; King’s narrative technique and inspiration; the ending explained; 25 thought-provoking book-club discussion questions; and Quick Recall.

Particular attention is given to the extraordinary psychological struggle between Paul and Annie, and to the way King turns the act of writing itself into a battle for survival.

Ideal for readers who have completed Misery, are rediscovering Stephen King’s work, or want a convenient reference to the novel’s characters, themes, symbolism and conclusion.

Full spoiler warning: This companion discusses the complete novel, including Annie’s actions and the ending.

Individual guide — £5.95
Complete Stephen King Collection — £32.95

READ IT • REMEMBER IT • DISCUSS IT

Coleman’s Notes® is an independent publication and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Stephen King, the publisher or rights holders.