Elevation stands out in Stephen King's bibliography because
It's so different from his usual horror fare. At first glance, it feels almost like
A Fable—short, bittersweet, and surprisingly uplifting. Unlike 'It' or '
The Shining,' there are no monsters lurking in
the shadows, just a quiet, odd premise about a man losing weight without changing physically. The emotional core is softer,
more contemplative,
Focusing on community and acceptance rather than fear.
That said, it still carries King’s signature character depth. Scott Carey’s struggle feels real, even if the situation isn’t. The small-town setting, a King staple, is cozy yet tinged with that familiar unease—like something’s off, but not in a terrifying way. If you’re expecting his classic horror, you might be disappointed, but if you enjoy his
quieter, character-driven works like 'The Green Mile,' this one’s a hidden gem.