The author was born in Portland, Maine on September 21, 1947, the son of Donald King and Nellie Ruth Pillsbury. Extremely imaginative and prolific, Stephen Edwin King wrote over 40 books, including a 7-part series of novels, a 6-part serial novel, and countless short stories, and is one of the world's most popular writers. Obviously, he's heeded his true calling as a writer. Here's a fascinating interview from Lilja's Library with Stephen King about Duma Key, before the book was published. At least to me it's fascinating--I enjoy reading what writers have to say about their work and writing. Would I read another book by Stephen King? Yes. While I can't say that I'll join a Stephen King fan club, I am interested in reading Lisey's Story, which King has called his best book. I'm particularly interested in what writers deem as their best work.