Opening the list of the best short stories by Stephen King is "Bad Little Kid". The tale revolves around a man named Mort Rainey, who, while visiting a therapist, recounts his eerie and disturbing encounter with a mysterious child named George Hallas, known as the "Bad Little Kid".

The story takes a spine-tingling turn when Mort discovers that everyone who has crossed paths with George has met a tragic and untimely demise. Despite his efforts to distance himself, Mort becomes ensnared in a nightmarish web of events that challenge his sanity and grip on reality. As he delves deeper into the mystery surrounding George, Mort realizes that the child harbors an uncanny and malevolent ability to manipulate events, leaving death in his wake.

In classic King fashion, "Bad Little Kid" showcases the author's ability to tap into primal fears and psychological turmoil. The story raises questions about the nature of evil, the power of the unknown, and the lengths one might go to escape their past. It's a haunting exploration of the darkness that can lurk within innocence and the unpredictable ways in which the past can catch up with us.

For fans of Stephen King's work, "Bad Little Kid" is a thrilling and unsettling addition to his vast repertoire of tales that push the boundaries of horror and psychological suspense. With its compelling narrative, intriguing characters, and hair-raising twists, this short story serves as a reminder of why King remains a master of his craft, capable of sending shivers down readers' spines even in the confines of a few pages.

Author: Stephen King

Published: November 2015

Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27776390-bad-little-kid?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_14

Next, "1922" is a gripping and unsettling short story penned by the iconic author Stephen King. Set in the heartland of Nebraska during the eponymous year, the story follows Wilfred Leland James, a farmer whose life takes a dark and sinister turn after he becomes embroiled in a heinous crime.

"1922" delves deep into themes of guilt, remorse, and the destructive power of secrets. King masterfully weaves an atmosphere of tension and dread, gradually exposing the psychological toll of Wilfred's decisions. The story explores the darkness that can reside within individuals as well as the far-reaching repercussions of their choices.

With his signature prose, King transports readers to a bygone era, immersing them in the harsh realities of rural life and the haunting specter of guilt. The narrative's slow and steady descent into madness mirrors Wilfred's unraveling mental state, resulting in a chilling and unforgettable tale of horror.

"1922" stands as one of the best short stories by Stephen King, which delve into the depths of human psychology and tap into universal fears. For those seeking a gripping and atmospheric short story that delves into the darkest corners of the human psyche, "1922" is a haunting and thought-provoking choice that showcases Stephen King at his best.

Author: Stephen King
Published: November 2010
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22844166-1922?ref=nav_sb_ss_2_4

The third name on the list of the best short stories by Stephen King is "1408", which revolves around the experiences of Mike Enslin, a skeptical author of books about haunted places. Enslin's skepticism is put to the ultimate test when he decides to spend a night in room 1408 at the Dolphin Hotel, a notoriously haunted room that has a dark history of driving its occupants to madness or suicide. The room seems to have a malevolent consciousness of its own, subjecting Enslin to a series of terrifying and surreal experiences.

Stephen King masterfully weaves a tale of psychological horror in "1408", drawing readers into the mind of a character who must confront his deepest fears and doubts. The story explores themes of the unknown, the power of the mind, and the thin line between reality and delusion.

With its relentless pace and unrelenting suspense, "1408" is a prime example of King's ability to craft stories that terrify and captivate in equal measure. The story's ambiguous conclusion leaves readers with lingering questions, making it a haunting and unforgettable addition to the horror genre. "1408" serves as a reminder that sometimes the most terrifying horrors are those that lurk within the human psyche.

Author: Stephen King
Published: March 2002
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/20957235-1408?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=W5x5wsSJfO&rank=1

"Dolan's Cadillac" is a gripping short story written by Stephen King that follows a schoolteacher whose name is never revealed as he becomes consumed by a thirst for vengeance. He concocts an elaborate plan to lure Dolan, the murderer of his wife, into a trap involving the construction of a fake road in the desert and the promise of a hidden treasure. As Dolan becomes increasingly ensnared in the teacher's scheme, the tension and suspense ratchet up.

What makes "Dolan's Cadillac" particularly compelling is the psychological cat-and-mouse game between the two men. As the story hurtles towards its climax, readers are left on the edge of their seats, wondering who will emerge victorious in this deadly game of wits. The tale explores themes of revenge, justice, and the lengths to which a person will go to right a terrible wrong.

In classic Stephen King fashion, "Dolan's Cadillac" delivers a chilling and suspenseful narrative that leaves a lasting impression. It's a testament to King's ability to craft stories that delve into the depths of human nature, even in the context of a relatively short tale.

Author: Stephen King
Published: October 1993
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/155465.Dolan_s_Cadillac?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=vS1WD3t8MV&rank=1

Stephen King, known for his mastery of weaving tales of horror and suspense, surprises his readers with "Cookie Jar". Published in the Virginia Quarterly in 2016, this short story takes a departure from the typical horror genre and delves into the uncanny.

What makes "Cookie Jar" a standout is that the story explores themes of temptation, addiction, and the dark secrets that can lurk within the most ordinary households. King's sharp characterizations give life to the everyday characters who grapple with their own desires and secrets.

"Cookie Jar" showcases Stephen King's versatility as a writer. While it may be his typical horror fare, it proves that he can turn even the most innocuous objects into sources of fear. Readers are left pondering the hidden horrors that may reside within their own lives, making "Cookie Jar" a compelling and thought-provoking read.

In conclusion, "Cookie Jar" is a captivating short story that demonstrates Stephen King's storytelling prowess. It's a delightful departure from his usual horror and a reminder that even the most ordinary aspects of life can hold unexpected mysteries and terrors.

Author: Stephen King
Published: Uncollected
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/30736453-cookie-jar?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=H5xOcita26&rank=1

Stephen King, a master of the horror genre, once again demonstrates his storytelling prowess in "A Good Marriage". Originally published in the collection "Full Dark, No Stars" in 2010, this short story delves into the chilling question of how well we truly know the people we love.

The tale revolves around Darcy and Bob Anderson, a seemingly ordinary couple who have enjoyed a long and stable marriage. Their lives take an abrupt turn when Darcy stumbles upon a shocking secret hidden within her husband's belongings. What follows is a psychological thriller that explores the complexities of trust, deception, and the facade of normalcy.

The story's climax is a masterstroke, delivering a powerful punch that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page. It leaves us pondering the choices we would make when confronted with the unthinkable.

In conclusion, "A Good Marriage" showcases Stephen King's ability to craft stories that venture beyond conventional horror. It's a tale that reminds us that sometimes the darkest secrets are hidden in plain sight. For those who appreciate psychological suspense and moral quandaries, this short story is an unsettling and thought-provoking read.

Author: Stephen King
Published: November 2010
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22844188-a-good-marriage?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=vGSc5yDnDZ&rank=2

Stephen King is renowned for his ability to terrify readers, and "Autopsy Room Four" is a perfect example of his mastery in creating a claustrophobic and nerve-wracking atmosphere.

The story follows Howard Cottrell, an ordinary man who is bitten by a snake during a golf game, is mistakenly pronounced dead, and is transported to the autopsy room at a local hospital. Trapped inside a corpse bag, completely paralyzed but fully conscious, he can only listen as doctors and nurses discuss his impending autopsy.

King's storytelling shines as he places readers in Howard's unimaginable predicament. The level of detail in describing the sights, sounds, and smells of the autopsy room is chillingly vivid, making the reader feel every moment of Howard's anguish and desperation. What sets "Autopsy Room Four" apart is its combination of suspense and black humor. Howard's internal monologue, filled with darkly comic observations, adds depth to his character and provides moments of levity amid the terror.

In conclusion, "Autopsy Room Four" is a gripping and unsettling tale of a man's fight for survival in the most nightmarish of circumstances. Stephen King's ability to blend horror with dark humor makes this short story a standout in his body of work, showcasing his talent for inducing fear and anxiety in readers like few others can.

Author: Stephen King
Published: March 2002
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/31281039-autopsy-room-four?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=Rv6GfRmgBH&rank=1

"Graduation Afternoon" is a departure from Stephen King's typical horror fare. The story unfolds during a high school graduation ceremony in a small town, focusing on the lives and thoughts of several characters in attendance. King excels at capturing the essence of a small community, complete with its shared histories and long-standing grudges.

"Graduation Afternoon" is a testament to King's storytelling prowess. He masterfully weaves the lives of various characters together, creating a rich tapestry of human emotions and connections. As the mist envelopes the town, it serves as a metaphorical catalyst, forcing the characters to confront their pasts and reflect on their futures.

Therefore, "Graduation Afternoon" is a departure from Stephen King's usual horror fare, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. It's a testament to his versatility as a writer, proving that he can captivate and unsettle readers even when the supernatural takes a backseat. This short story is a must-read for those who appreciate King's ability to infuse the ordinary with a touch of the extraordinary.

Author: Stephen King
Published: November 2008
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/22614223-graduation-afternoon?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_33

Stephen King's "A Face in the Crowd" takes an eerie turn when Evers begins seeing a face on his blank television screen. This face belongs to a political candidate who recently passed away. What initially seems like a technical glitch takes on a more sinister dimension as Evers realizes that the face is communicating with him, speaking directly into his thoughts.

King skillfully explores the impact of technology on human interaction and the blurring of lines between the real and the digital. Through Evers' experiences, the story raises questions about the consequences of our ever-growing reliance on screens and virtual connections.

As Evers engages in a surreal conversation with the deceased politician, the narrative becomes a meditation on mortality and the persistence of memory. King's storytelling prowess shines as he navigates the fine line between psychological horror and a poignant exploration of the human condition.

In conclusion, Stephen King's "A Face in the Crowd" is a haunting and timely story that prompts readers to reflect on their relationship with technology and the enduring need for genuine human connection. It's a testament to King's ability to infuse his narratives with depth and social commentary, making it a compelling read for fans and newcomers alike.

Author: Stephen King
Published: Uncollected
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15803680-a-face-in-the-crowd?from_search=true&from_srp=true&qid=6Dnhu8VH35&rank=1

In "The Gingerbread Girl", Stephen King introduces us to Emily, a woman dealing with the devastating loss of her infant daughter. Seeking solace and a fresh start, Emily moves to a remote beachside house in Florida. However, her newfound tranquility is shattered when she discovers a sinister secret in her neighbor's house.

King masterfully builds tension and suspense as Emily confronts a dangerous and unhinged adversary. The story is a rollercoaster of emotions, from fear and vulnerability to strength and determination.

At its core, "The Gingerbread Girl" is a tale of tenacity. Emily's character embodies the resilience of the human spirit, showing that even in the face of unimaginable trauma, one can summon the inner strength to confront danger head-on.

King's storytelling prowess shines through vivid descriptions and a relentless pace that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The remote beach setting becomes an integral part of the story, adding to the isolation and vulnerability of the protagonist.

While "The Gingerbread Girl" is a shorter work by King's standards, it doesn't lack in depth or impact. It's a testament to his ability to craft compelling characters and narratives that resonate with readers long after they've turned the final page.

Author: Stephen King
Published: November 2008
Link to read: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1793995.The_Gingerbread_Girl?ref=nav_sb_ss_1_16