40 pages • 1 hour read
Stephen KingRita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption
Fiction | Novella | Adult | Published in 1982A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The novella "Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption" by Stephen King, from the collection Different Seasons, is narrated by Red, a prison inmate, who recounts the story of Andy Dufresne, a fellow inmate unjustly convicted of murder. Despite relentless mistreatment, Andy remains steadfastly optimistic and eventually escapes Shawshank Prison, inspiring Red to believe in hope and redemption. The story includes portrayals of sexual assault, murder, and suicide.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Stephen King's Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption garners praise for its compelling storytelling, rich character development, and insightful exploration of hope and endurance. Some critics note a slower pace and predictable tropes but agree it’s a powerful novella. King's ability to evoke emotion through simple, yet profound, narrative techniques stands out.
Who Should Read Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption?
Fans of Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption by Stephen King typically enjoy gripping narratives of resilience and justice. Similar to readers of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee or The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas, they appreciate complex characters and powerful, redemptive storytelling.