After Stephen King published "Carrie" in 1973, Brian De Palma's eponymous adaptation brought it to life to stark, harrowing effect. Although King had already amassed a following by then, De Palma's film undoubtedly contributed to the novel's (and the author's) increasing popularity. After four steady years of writing compelling stories, King struck gold with "The Shining," which still remains one of the most popular stories associated with the master of horror. Infused with personal elements from King's life, "The Shining" tackles the cabin fever trope with taut mastery over suspense and pacing, where the psychological and the supernatural meet to form a riveting tale.

A year later, King savored success again with "It," which can be considered a milestone entry in the pulp horror genre that we take for granted today. This is also the juncture when King almost stopped writing more horror, as he was plagued with self...