It
by Stephen King
Open Library readers: 4.09 / 5 from 493 ratings. Separate from ratings here.Catalogue checked 2026-10-02.
"It" is a 1986 horror novel by American author Stephen King. "It" was his 22nd book and his 17th novel written under his own name. The story follows the experiences of seven children as they are terrorized by an evil entity that exploits the fears of its victims to disguise itself while hunting its prey. "It" primarily appears in the form of Pennywise the Dancing Clown to attract its preferred prey of young children.
The novel won the British Fantasy Award in 1987, and received nominations for the Locus and World Fantasy Awards that same year.
In 2003, "It" was listed at number 144 on the BBC's The Big Read poll.
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- Who wrote It?
It is by Stephen King. The catalogue records its first publication in 1986. A later edition may have a different publication date on its copyright page.
- How long is It?
The catalogue records 1,168 pages for a representative edition. Pagination varies with the publisher, format, type size and translation, so check the edition you intend to read.
- How do I choose an edition of It?
