The Outsider is one of Stephen King’s better books. Since I have enjoyed a number of King’s books, I don’t say that lightly.
The Outsider centers around the horrific murder of an 11-year-old boy. All of the physical evidence leads to Terry Maitland, one of Flint City’s most beloved citizens. There’s only one problem–Maitland’s alibi is beyond question.
As the previous paragraph indicates the story is a science fiction novel. One of the things I like best about The Outsider is the way King uses the science fiction in the story to highlight the inability of most people to look for answers beyond their comfort zone and life experiences.
The way King uses people’s natural desire to feel safe to both drive the story and establish an ending that is believable and false is also interesting.
If you enjoy a book that may challenge your perspective while entertaining, you will enjoy The Outsider.