It [Eso]

Name: It [Eso]
ISBN: 9788401499968

First published 1981
1214 pages
Spanish
Classic

In the town of Derry, Maine, something evil has preyed upon the local children for centuries. It is an ancient, shape-shifting entity that emerges from the sewers every twenty-seven years to feed on their fears, most often taking the form of a clown named Pennywise. In the summer of 1958, seven outcast children, who call themselves the Losers' Club, discover the source of the town's evil. After a terrifying battle, they believe they have defeated the creature and make a blood oath: if It ever returns, they will too.

Twenty-seven years later, the children are adults who have moved away and largely forgotten the traumatic events of that summer. But when a new series of murders begins in Derry, Mike Hanlon, the only member of the club to remain, calls the others back to honor their promise. They must now delve into their repressed memories and summon the courage to confront the horror they thought they had escaped. This is a story that explores the depths of memory, the persistence of childhood trauma, and the bonds of friendship required to face an unimaginable evil.

Genres: Fiction › Speculative fiction › Horror & supernatural Fiction › Speculative fiction › Fantasy Fiction › Literary fiction › Psychological fiction Fiction › Thriller & suspense › Psychological thriller Fiction › Crime & mystery
Themes: LGBTQ+ › Gay Morality › Good & evil Mythical & supernatural beings › Ghosts Politics & power › Spies Mythical & supernatural beings › Monsters
Where and when: England Los Angeles Atlanta Chicago New York City
Style: Audience: Young adult

What readers say

4.23

1.3M ratings across the web

8 in 10 readers loved it, 1 didn't like it

Reviews for "IT" highlight it as a masterful blend of horror and a profound coming-of-age story, often cited as a quintessential work by the author. Readers consistently praise its exceptional character development, particularly the group of child protagonists, who are portrayed with such depth that they feel incredibly real and relatable. The novel is celebrated for exploring powerful themes such as the strength of childhood imagination and friendship, the enduring impact of memory, and the courage required to overcome deep-seated fears. Its intricate, non-linear narrative structure, weaving between different timelines, is frequently lauded for building suspense and creating a deeply immersive reading experience. Many appreciate the vivid prose and the author's keen understanding of adolescence, which allows the book to evoke a wide range of emotions and address important social topics like prejudice and abuse alongside its terrifying elements.

However, a significant number of reviewers found the book to be excessively long, with many arguing that numerous details, subplots, and descriptions felt unnecessary and bogged down the main narrative, making it a demanding read. Specific scenes were criticized as gratuitous, disturbing, and inappropriate, detracting from the overall story for these readers. While some enjoyed the non-linear structure, others found the frequent shifts between timelines confusing or frustrating due to a lack of clear transitions. For some, the horror elements lost their impact over time due to repetition or the antagonist's constantly changing forms, leading to a diminished sense of suspense. Additionally, certain characters or their extended subplots were deemed annoying, underdeveloped, or ultimately pointless by a segment of the readership.

Ultimately, "IT" stands as a landmark work in the horror genre and a defining example of the author's distinctive style, frequently appearing on fans' lists of favorite books. It offers a deeply immersive and emotionally resonant experience for those who appreciate extensive character development, complex psychological themes, and a blend of intense horror with a powerful narrative about childhood and friendship. However, prospective readers should be aware of its considerable length and the inclusion of graphic and disturbing content, which some found challenging or problematic. It is highly recommended for dedicated horror enthusiasts, readers who enjoy epic narratives with rich psychological depth, and those already familiar with the author's work who are prepared for a challenging yet potentially profoundly rewarding literary journey.