Stephen King's The Outsider masterfully blends crime and supernatural elements, captivating readers with its suspense and complex characters. Critics praise its compelling plot and atmospheric tension. However, some feel the novel's latter half loses momentum and becomes predictable. Overall, it remains a gripping and thought-provoking read.

Fans of Stephen King, Raymond Chandler’s The Big Sleep, and Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl will relish The Outsider. This novel suits readers who enjoy intricate plot twists, supernatural elements, and a blend of crime and horror. Ideal for those who appreciate suspenseful thrillers with a strong investigative component.

In Stephen King’s The Outsider, Detective Ralph Anderson arrests local coach Terry Maitland for a gruesome child murder, despite Terry's airtight alibi. As contradictory evidence surfaces, including Terry being seen in two places at once, Ralph and private investigator Holly Gibney uncover a horrifying supernatural entity capable of taking on others' appearances. The novel contains sensitive topics such as child murder and suicide.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Suspenseful / Gritty

- The Outsider was published in 2018 and is considered a blend of crime fiction and horror, showcasing Stephen King's talent for crossing genres.
- In an interesting crossover, the character Holly Gibney, who plays a significant role in The Outsider, also appears in King's Mr. Mercedes series, linking the two works within the same universe.
- The novel's exploration of themes like identity and the nature of evil has been touted as a reflection of classic King's storytelling style, resonating with fans of his earlier works.

**Detective Ralph Anderson**  
A methodical investigator who struggles when faced with unexplainable evidence. His journey involves grappling with his reliance on material evidence and a strong sense of personal integrity.

**The Outsider**  
A mysterious entity that can mimic others to evade capture and confound investigators. Its origins are unknown, but it possesses a very physical, albeit unfamiliar, form.

**Terry Maitland**  
A well-liked Little League coach wrongly accused of a heinous crime. His case is central to the story's moral and investigative dilemmas.

**Holly Gibney**  
An eccentric yet brilliant detective known for her meticulous investigative skills. She has a background from previous cases in the Mr. Mercedes series and plays a key role in the investigation.

**Bill Samuels**  
A young district attorney with an Alfalfa-like cowlick who initially believes firmly in the accused's guilt. As the case evolves, he reassesses his initial confidence.

**Ollie Peterson**  
An adolescent dealing with the traumatic aftermath of his brother’s murder. He tries to maintain control amidst family tragedy and loss.

**Detective Jack Hoskins**  
A disreputable and disgruntled officer who faces significant personal and professional challenges during the investigation. He is manipulated due to his various weaknesses.

**Jeannie Anderson**  
Ralph’s supportive wife who contributes valuable perspectives, suggesting unconventional explanations for the evidence.

Stephen King

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Novel

Holly Gibney

Fiction

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Study Guide

Before You Read

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

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Overview

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The Outsider Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Outsider Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Arrest”

Part 1 The Outsider Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Sorry”

Part 2 The Outsider Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Arraignment”

Part 3 The Outsider Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Footsteps and Cantaloupe”

Part 4 The Outsider Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “Yellow”

Part 5 The Outsider Part 5 Summary & Analysis

Part 6: “Holly”

Part 6 The Outsider Part 6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “Visits”

Part 7 The Outsider Part 7 Summary & Analysis

Part 8: “Macy’s Tells Gimbels”

Part 8 The Outsider Part 8 Summary & Analysis

Part 9: “No End to the Universe”

Part 9 The Outsider Part 9 Summary & Analysis

Part 10: “Bienvenidos a Tejas”

Part 10 The Outsider Part 10 Summary & Analysis

Part 11: “The Marysville Hole”

Part 11 The Outsider Part 11 Summary & Analysis

Part 12: “Flint City”

Part 12 The Outsider Part 12 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Outsider Character Analysis

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Themes

The Outsider Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Outsider Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Outsider Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Outsider Essay Topics

The Outsider Further Reading & Resources

The Outsider

Before You Read

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