After reading RawkStah’s thread which mentions that the DT series is finished and that the gunslinger will be rewritten, has me wanting to dive back into the series anew. My first read through I only read the canon books, DT 1-4. Only later did I realize many of his other works has links to the DT universe. So what order would be best to read? Including all the other books relating to DT.
These aren’t in order, as I haven’t read all of them myself.
The Stand - has a lot of material about Randall Flagg.
The Talisman and Black House - has a character that goes back and forth between our world and Roland’s.
Insomnia - has (I believe) more info on Flagg (or Walter - I believe they’re the same, no?).
Eye of the Dragon - good intro to the character of Walter, set in Roland’s world. Written more in the style of The Gunslinger, if that’s your bag.
'Salem’s Lot - has a character that looks to play a part in Dark Tower V.
Hearts in Atlantis - has a character known as a “Beam Breaker” - good supplementary info on the nature of the Tower.
Everything’s Eventual - contains a short story about Roland. Not necessary for the story, but hey, it’s Roland!
That’s all I have off the top of my head. These are the major works - there are of course, like the rest of King’s work - various references and nods in his other books scattered throughout.
In this case, I think the order makes quite little difference (although I would start with The Stand as a good foundation for anything). IMHO none of the other books have anything completely vital to the story, it’s just small tastes here and their throughout his works. Like a side order of fries so to speak.
Wait a minute. I’ve read the first DT, The Gunslinger, and The Stand. Are you telling me Randall Flagg is the same person as the man in black? :eek: Wow. Er… Randall Flagg seems a lot more… Evil, in The Stand.
Keep reading!
Thank you for the responses :). I’m going to pick up the stand on the way home from work today. Thanx much.
I’ve read everything King has ever written…and my all time favorite is The Stand.
Interestingly enough, I don’t really consider myself a fan. I’m actually very critical of his work…
The Stand is the only one of his books that I have read more than once.