Roadwork

"Roadwork" is a novel by Stephen King, published under the pseudonym Richard Bachman in 1981. It is a story about a man named Barton Dawes who is grieving over the death of his son and facing the loss of his home due to a new highway construction project. The book explores themes of loss, grief, and the human struggle to control one's own destiny.

The story takes place in a small town in Connecticut, where Barton Dawes has been working as an engineer for many years. After his son dies of leukemia, he becomes depressed and disillusioned with his life. When he learns that his house and the surrounding neighborhood will be demolished to make way for a new highway, he becomes obsessed with stopping the project and preserving his home.

As the construction date approaches, Dawes becomes increasingly desperate and begins to lash out at those around him. His behavior becomes more erratic, and he starts to have hallucinations of his dead son. He also begins to plan a violent attack on the construction site.

The book is a character-driven story that delves deeply into the psyche of Barton Dawes. It portrays the toll that grief can take on a person and the lengths that someone will go to protect what they love. The themes of loss and the struggle for control will resonate with many readers.

King's writing style is vivid and evocative, and he creates a sense of tension and unease throughout the book. The plot moves at a slow pace, allowing readers to immerse themselves in Dawes' inner turmoil. The novel is also notable for its exploration of a complex and flawed protagonist, making it a departure from many of King's other works.

In conclusion, "Roadwork" is a compelling novel that explores themes of grief, loss, and control. It is a character-driven story that will resonate with readers who enjoy psychological suspense and complex characters. King's writing style and the book's themes make it a must-read for fans of his work and for those looking for a thought-provoking read.