Stephen King has published roughly 65 novels, a dozen short story collections, and several book-length pieces of nonfiction. Most of his novels have been reissued countless times in paperback, but they almost always begin their rapid climb up the bestseller charts in hardcover. Constant readers who have picked up the author’s books at launch likely have multiple shelves filled with hardcover editions. But even the most dedicated of King fans are missing at least a few of his novels in hardcover by default. Two of those gaps can now be filled thanks to a pair of welcome surprises from King’s publisher Scribner. The Running Man and The Long Walk are now available in separate hardcover editions for the first time.
The Long Walk’s hardcover edition was published October 7 for $29, while The Running Man released in hardcover today, October 14. Like many reissued King books, these new editions were prompted by the new film adaptations. The Long Walk’s first-ever adaptation is in theaters now, and the second adaptation of The Running Man premieres November 14. King’s books typically receive movie tie-in paperback editions, but these two classics have a unique publication history and missed out on the traditional hardcover to paperback pipeline.
So, why didn’t these novels release in hardcover back then? Because Richard Bachman wrote them. From 1977-1982, King released four novels under the pseudonym Richard Bachman. Since his alias was a completely unknown author, The Long Walk (1979), The Running Man (1982), Rage (1977), and Roadwork (1981) were published as paperback originals. Bachman’s true identity was uncovered following the release of Thinner, the fifth Bachman novel, in 1984. Thinner was the first Richard Bachman book to receive a standalone hardcover edition, while the first four were collected in a hardcover omnibus in 1985.
This is exciting news for Stephen King fans! It’s great to see classic novels getting standalone editions. The Long Walk is such a unique story, and a hardcover edition will make it even more special for collectors.
Absolutely! It’s always nice to see beloved works getting the recognition they deserve. The standalone editions might also attract new readers who haven’t yet explored King’s earlier stories.
I completely agree! It’s exciting to see these classic novels getting the standalone treatment. It might also attract new readers who have only seen the more recent adaptations of King’s work.
Absolutely! It’s great that these editions are being released, as they often attract new readers who may not have explored King’s work yet. Plus, the collectible aspect of hardcover editions adds another layer of appeal for fans.