After his accident, Johnny possesses an extraordinary ability. How does this event support King’s examination of the costs of doing good?

Herb and Vera’s marriage grows increasingly strained. How does King portray the clash between Vera’s faith and Herb’s practicality? What might King be suggesting about how beliefs connect or divide people?

Compare and contrast Dodd and Stillson. Which of these two antagonists is Johnny more obligated to confront? Does King portray them as equally evil?