#63 – Cell

Plot

The event became known as The Pulse. The virus was carried by every cell phone operating within the entire world. Within hours, those receiving calls would be infected. A young artist Clayton Riddell realizes what is happening. He flees the devastation of explosive, burning Boston, desperate to reach his son before his son switches on his little red mobile phone.

Review

Cell was one of the first Stephen King books I read (after finishing up The Dark Tower series) and it started off with a fantastic opening scene. However, the book drops off significantly afterwards and turns into a dystopian trainwreck. The premise was too silly, and the payoff was severely short.

Not only does Stephen King fail to write aliens well – but I would add zombies to that short list as well. This book is not well paced as it falls flat throughout the middle sections. Characters are not brought into focus and the zombies are just along for the ride.

Had a similar feel as The Stand – but would have been better served as a short story.

Details

Pages: 709

Dates Read: Pre 2012 (before I started tracking)

Quote: “Man has come to dominate the planet thanks to two essential traits. One is intelligence. The other has been the absolute willingness to kill anyone and anything that gets in his way.”

Best Part: The massively chaotic opening scene.

Hint for #62: You likely made one during summer camp – and if you’re anything like me – returned home and threw it in the trash (instead of its proper place by the bed).

 

Until next time, peace be the journey.