Cujo by Stephen King

Author: Stephen King
Publisher: Scribner; Reprint edition
Genre: Horror, Thriller
Year of Publication: 2018
Date of Publication: February 20, 2018
Pages: 400
ISBN-10: 1501192248
ISBN-13: 978-1501192241

Summary

Cujo tells the tale of a friendly Saint Bernard who, after being bitten by a rabid bat, transforms into a terrifying menace.

Set in the small town of Castle Rock, Maine, the novel intertwines the lives of the Trenton and Camber families, culminating in a suspenseful confrontation that explores the fragility of safety and the unpredictability of danger.

Main Plot & Characters

The narrative centers on Cujo, a 200-pound Saint Bernard, who becomes rabid and terrorizes the town.

Donna Trenton and her young son, Tad, find themselves trapped in their car, facing the relentless Cujo.

Parallel to this, the story explores the personal struggles of the Trenton family, including marital discord and the challenges of parenthood, adding depth to the unfolding horror.

Key Themes of Cujo

• Fear and Survival: The novel explores primal fear and the instinctual drive to survive against insurmountable odds.
• Domestic Strife: It delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of personal crises.
• Randomness of Tragedy: King examines how unforeseen events can drastically alter lives, emphasizing the unpredictability of fate.
• Nature vs. Civilization: The story contrasts the wild, uncontrollable aspects of nature with the perceived safety of suburban life.

Impact of Cujo

Cujo inspires discussions about the unpredictability of nature and human perseverance.

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