Joyland (Illustrated)

Stephen King presents a narrative set in a small-town North Carolina amusement park during the summer of 1973. The story follows Devin Jones, a college student who takes a job as a carny at Joyland. His duties include maintenance work and dressing up as the park mascot to entertain children. This position places him near an unsolved murder that occurred in the Haunted House. Devin forms a close bond with Mike, a sickly boy living near his boarding house. Mike has never visited the park and wishes to see it before he dies. Devin arranges a private tour for him during the end of the season. The day unfolds among roller coasters and terrifying tales regarding the fate of the murdered young woman. Unwanted visitors and intrusive questions create unpredictable reactions within the park’s shadows. Devin realizes he has entered a dangerous situation from which he may not escape. This illustrated edition by Hard Case Crime covers themes of college student life, cold cases, and city dynamics. It suits readers interested in supernatural fiction and murder mysteries. Those seeking high-octane action or contemporary settings might find the slow-burn atmosphere less appealing.