#38 – Gerald’s Game

Plot

Once again, Jessie Burlingame has been talked into submitting to her husband Gerald’s kinky sex games—something that she’s frankly had enough of, and they never held much charm for her to begin with. So much for a “romantic getaway” at their secluded summer home. After Jessie is handcuffed to the bedposts—and Gerald crosses a line with his wife—the day ends with deadly consequences.

Review

“Is this really the whole book?” These were my thoughts a couple hundred pages in as I was equally amazed and annoyed by the simplistic setting and plot. Had it not been for my resolve to read every King book, I may have stopped half-way through.

After finishing Gerald’s Game I had no idea where to rank it. Even as we currently speak, I have no idea where to rank it. I’ve never been more perplexed by my own feelings towards a work of art. There are so many unbelievable elements in this novel. The horror is real, raw and right in your face. Completely gripping.

Gerald’s Game also has one of my favorite Stephen King endings which brought total closure to the story and the main character, Jessie. But it also goes long stretches without any major plot developments and lackluster character building. I hated a lot of this book but loved it just as much. Bizarre.

Gerald’s Game is also a great reminder that people’s perception of art is typically based on their own life experiences. I’m sure there are a lot of people who would easily proclaim Gerald’s Game to be the best King novel because they could identify with some of Jessie’s thoughts and feelings. I’m also just as sure there are an equal number who could not relate to anything in Gerald’s Game and would adamantly boast this novel to be one of King’s worst.

Details

Pages: 480

Dates Read: February – March 2021

Quote: “If anyone ever asks you what panic is, now you can tell them: an emotional blank spot that leaves you feeling as if you’ve been sucking on a mouthful of pennies.”

Best Part: Always remember to check the back seat before you start driving.

Hint for #37: In 1st grade, this was the very first book I read in Mrs. Dutro’s class … although the title also included “Losers Weepers.”

 

Until next time, peace be the journey.