Stephen King pens picture book

Horror master Stephen King has written a picture book, first mentioned in one of his adult series, under a pseudonym.

Charlie the Choo-Choo, written by King as ‘Beryl Evans’ and illustrated by Ned Dameron, is a story about Engineer Bob and his best friend and train engine, Charlie the Choo-Choo. The story is about friendship, loyalty and hard work, according to Simon & Schuster US, which is publishing the book on 22nd November.

King first mentioned the book in his adult novel Dark Tower series (published by S&S in 2012), when it is bought by the story’s hero, Jake. However, in Dark Tower Charlie the Choo-Choo is described as being untrustworthy, suggesting the picture book may not be as child-friendly as it appears.  

Charlie the Choo-Choo is also listed on Amazon.co.uk as being published by S&S UK on 1st December. However, the publisher has not yet responded to a press enquiry from The Bookseller.