Bad Little Kid
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