The Dark Tower Books in Order
On the hunt for a list of The Dark Tower books in order? Our helpful and informative guide will ensure you navigate through Stephen King’s Dark Tower series in the perfect order. Whether you’re embarking on your first journey into these enigmatic tales or a seasoned enthusiast, our guide will show you the perfect way to enjoy Stephen King’s enduring saga, The Dark Tower.
About Stephen King and the Dark Tower Series
Stephen King, one of the most renowned authors of contemporary horror and suspense fiction, is also celebrated for his epic fantasy series, “The Dark Tower.” This ambitious and intricately woven saga spans eight novels, beginning with “The Gunslinger” and concluding with “The Dark Tower.” Set in a vast and mysterious multiverse, the series follows Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger, on his quest to reach the Dark Tower—a mythical structure that holds the key to the fate of all existence.
King’s Dark Tower series blends elements of fantasy, western, horror, and science fiction, creating a unique and immersive literary experience. Through vivid characters, rich world-building, and a compelling narrative, King explores themes of destiny, sacrifice, redemption, and the nature of reality itself.
Since its inception, “The Dark Tower” has captivated readers worldwide and has become a cornerstone of King’s literary legacy. The series has also inspired various adaptations, including comic books, graphic novels, and a feature film adaptation starring Idris Elba and Matthew McConaughey.
How many The Dark Tower books are there in the series?
Stephen King’s primary Dark Tower saga comprises eight books: The Gunslinger, The Drawing of the Three, The Waste Lands, Wizard and Glass, Wolves of the Calla, Song of Susannah, and The Dark Tower. The latest book, which is The Dark Tower: The Wind Through the Keyhole was released in 2012. It is the eighth novel, but it takes place chronologically between the fourth and fifth volumes.
The Gunslinger
Stephen King
1982The first book in The Dark Tower series introduces Roland, the last Gunslinger, on a quest to find the mysterious Dark Tower. Roland's journey through a desolate world leads him to confront both inner and outer demons as he chases his ultimate goal, the enigmatic "Man in Black."
The Drawing of the Three
Stephen King
1987Roland's quest continues as he encounters three individuals from different times and worlds—Eddie, a drug addict; Susannah, a woman with a troubled past; and Jake, a boy from his own past. These characters are drawn into Roland's journey, forming an essential part of his quest to reach the Dark Tower.
The Waste Lands
Stephen King
1991Roland and his companions face new dangers as they continue their journey toward the Dark Tower. They encounter the broken remnants of cities, hostile creatures, and puzzles that test their strength and resolve. The book delves deeper into the nature of the Tower and the forces that seek to stop them.
Wizard and Glass
Stephen King
1997This book focuses on Roland's past, revealing the tragic story of his youth, his first love, and the pivotal events that shaped him into the Gunslinger. The story blends Roland's personal history with the ongoing quest, offering crucial insights into the nature of the Tower and Roland's mission.
Wolves of the Calla
Stephen King
2003Roland and his ka-tet (group of companions) arrive in the town of Calla Bryn Sturgis, where they must protect the townspeople from a mysterious and dangerous group known as the Wolves. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, fate, and the battle between good and evil.
Song of Susannah
Stephen King
2004As the journey toward the Dark Tower intensifies, Susannah Dean becomes central to the plot. Struggling with her own identity and powers, Susannah faces a series of challenges while Roland and his companions move closer to their goal. The book also explores the intertwining of multiple realities and the role of the Dark Tower in the universe.
The Dark Tower
Stephen King
2004The final installment of the series brings Roland and his ka-tet to the very doorstep of the Dark Tower. The fate of all worlds rests on their shoulders, and the final confrontation between Roland and his enemies leads to a climactic and profound conclusion to the epic journey.
The Wind Through the Keyhole
Stephen King
2012A side story set between the events of Wizard and Glass and The Wolves of the Calla, The Wind Through the Keyhole finds Roland telling a tale to his ka-tet while they are trapped in a dangerous situation. The story within a story explores themes of courage, destiny, and the mysterious forces surrounding the Dark Tower.
The Gunslinger
Stephen King
1982The first book in The Dark Tower series introduces Roland, the last Gunslinger, on a quest to find the mysterious Dark Tower. Roland's journey through a desolate world leads him to confront both inner and outer demons as he chases his ultimate goal, the enigmatic "Man in Black."
The Drawing of the Three
Stephen King
1987Roland's quest continues as he encounters three individuals from different times and worlds—Eddie, a drug addict; Susannah, a woman with a troubled past; and Jake, a boy from his own past. These characters are drawn into Roland's journey, forming an essential part of his quest to reach the Dark Tower.
The Waste Lands
Stephen King
1991Roland and his companions face new dangers as they continue their journey toward the Dark Tower. They encounter the broken remnants of cities, hostile creatures, and puzzles that test their strength and resolve. The book delves deeper into the nature of the Tower and the forces that seek to stop them.
Wizard and Glass
Stephen King
1997This book focuses on Roland's past, revealing the tragic story of his youth, his first love, and the pivotal events that shaped him into the Gunslinger. The story blends Roland's personal history with the ongoing quest, offering crucial insights into the nature of the Tower and Roland's mission.
The Wind Through the Keyhole
Stephen King
2012A side story set between the events of Wizard and Glass and The Wolves of the Calla, The Wind Through the Keyhole finds Roland telling a tale to his ka-tet while they are trapped in a dangerous situation. The story within a story explores themes of courage, destiny, and the mysterious forces surrounding the Dark Tower.
Wolves of the Calla
Stephen King
2003Roland and his ka-tet (group of companions) arrive in the town of Calla Bryn Sturgis, where they must protect the townspeople from a mysterious and dangerous group known as the Wolves. The novel explores themes of sacrifice, fate, and the battle between good and evil.
Song of Susannah
Stephen King
2004As the journey toward the Dark Tower intensifies, Susannah Dean becomes central to the plot. Struggling with her own identity and powers, Susannah faces a series of challenges while Roland and his companions move closer to their goal. The book also explores the intertwining of multiple realities and the role of the Dark Tower in the universe.
The Dark Tower
Stephen King
2004The final installment of the series brings Roland and his ka-tet to the very doorstep of the Dark Tower. The fate of all worlds rests on their shoulders, and the final confrontation between Roland and his enemies leads to a climactic and profound conclusion to the epic journey.
