Velshi Banned Book Club: a Conversation with the Great Stephen King

Book Industry & Censorship - Stephen King joined the Veland Book Club, highlighting his significant contributions to American literature [1][19] - 23 of Stephen King's books were banned in Florida as of August 31st, 2024, and the number has since increased [7] - King advises kids to find out what they don't want you to read in libraries or bookstores [8] - Sex, rather than violence, is often the primary reason for book banning [8] Horror Genre & Social Commentary - Horror explores social anxieties and fears, with well-crafted horror books and movies responding to cultural fracturing and insecurity [9] - Horror provides an escape from real-world problems like rising gas and egg prices [10] - Horror often contains a subtext, reflecting underlying societal issues, such as "The Long Walk" addressing the draft and Vietnam [10][11] - Fairy tales, like Hansel and Gretel, tap into universal fears, such as the horror of getting lost [11] Humanity & Politics - Stephen King believes that most people are inherently good and will help others in emergencies, regardless of political affiliation [12][13] - King views Trump as a "horror story" and expressed concern about a potential third term, referencing his book "The Dead Zone" [14][15] - King characterizes Trump as an icon, similar to a "good old boy" figure, who appeals to the average American [16] - King considers Trump dangerous due to his perceived lack of intellectual curiosity and self-absorption [17]