Stephen King's It receives praise for its compelling narrative and richly developed characters, capturing the essence of childhood fears. Critics commend its atmospheric tension and psychological depth. However, some reviewers find its length excessive and certain scenes disturbing. Overall, It remains a masterful blend of horror and nostalgia.

Fans of horror and psychological thrills will relish It by Stephen King. Ideal for readers who enjoy deeply complex narratives and rich character development similar to those in The Shining or works by H.P. Lovecraft, King's novel weaves chilling encounters and a nostalgic return to childhood fears. Suitable for those captivated by both the supernatural and the human psyche.

In It by Stephen King, a group of seven childhood friends in the town of Derry confronts a shape-shifting monster that takes the form of their worst fears. They believe they've defeated it, but when the monster returns 27 years later, they reunite to stop it for good. Their bond and bravery are tested as they face their deepest fears and past traumas, leading to a climactic battle in the sewers. The novel explores themes of friendship, fear, and memory and alternates between the characters' past and present experiences. The book includes graphic depictions of violence and trauma.

Mysterious / Dark / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Bittersweet

- Stephen King has said that the fictional town of Derry in It is a composite of several real locations in Maine, particularly Bangor, where King has lived for many years.
- It includes several intertextual references to other works by Stephen King, creating a shared universe with characters and events that crossover among his novels.
- The character Pennywise has become a cultural icon, influencing various adaptations and spawning a real-world fear called Coulrophobia, an irrational fear of clowns, though it existed before the book's release.

**Bill Denbrough**  
Bill is the leader of a group of childhood friends and is often seen as their driving force. He struggles with a stutter and grows up to become a successful horror novelist.

**Ben Hanscom**  
Ben is an imaginative boy with a love for books and architecture. He transforms from a bullied child into a successful adult who works in an architecture-related field.

**Beverly Marsh**  
Beverly is a talented and courageous girl who excels in using a slingshot. She grows into a successful fashion designer, dealing with challenges from her past.

**Richard Tozier**  
Richie is a lively boy known for his quick wit and impersonations. He goes on to become a well-known radio personality and comedian.

**Eddie Kaspbrak**  
Eddie is a cautious child with health anxiety, often carrying an asthma inhaler. He eventually runs a limousine business and carries traits from his mother into adulthood.

**Stanley Uris**  
Stanley is a logical, bird-loving boy who values order. As an adult, he becomes a successful accountant overcoming initial hurdles related to his experiences.

**Mike Hanlon**  
Mike is a curious boy with an interest in history and a strong sense of duty. He becomes the town librarian and serves as the group's memory keeper.

**Henry Bowers**  
Henry is a persistent bully, whose behavior is influenced by his environment. His antagonism places him at odds with the other characters.

**Pennywise/It**  
Pennywise is a sinister clown figure that embodies fear, using various appearances to terrify and manipulate. Its presence shapes the central conflict faced by the main characters.

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Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore It reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read It | SuperSummary

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Overview

Get ready to explore It and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

It Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Shadow Before”

Part 1 It Part 1 Summary & Analysis

“Derry: The First Interlude”

It “Derry: The First Interlude” Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “June of 1958”

Part 2 It Part 2 Summary & Analysis

“Derry: The Second Interlude”

It “Derry: The Second Interlude” Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Grownups”

Part 3 It Part 3 Summary & Analysis

“Derry: The Third Interlude” 

It “Derry: The Third Interlude”  Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “July of 1958”

Part 4 It Part 4 Summary & Analysis

“Derry: The Fourth Interlude”

It “Derry: The Fourth Interlude” Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Ritual of Chüd”  

Part 5 It Part 5 Summary & Analysis

“Derry: The Last Interlude” - Epilogue

It “Derry: The Last Interlude” - Epilogue Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

It Character Analysis

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Themes

It Themes

Symbols & Motifs

It Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

It Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

It Essay Topics

It

Before You Read

Super Short Summary

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read It?

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