Where to start
The Dark Tower
2 versions · originally a book, 1982
The Dark Tower saga is an epic genre-bending journey through parallel universes centered on a gunslinger's quest to reach the nexus of all reality.
✦ Most fans start here
The Dark Tower (1982)
The original novel
✦ Start hereThe Dark Tower
Stephen King · Book · 1982
The Dark Tower (1982) serves as the foundational text for the entire multiverse, offering the dense, atmospheric prose and character-driven scope that established the series' sprawling, dark fantasy legacy.
2017 film
The Dark Tower
Nikolaj Arcel · Film · 2017
The Dark Tower (2017) provides a streamlined, action-oriented cinematic interpretation that focuses on the core conflict between the gunslinger and his nemesis within a condensed, visually-driven parallel world narrative.
Common questions
What order should I read The Dark Tower book series in?
The Dark Tower book series should be read in its published order, starting with the 1982 volume titled The Dark Tower: The Gunslinger. Following the original publication sequence ensures the narrative progression of the series remains consistent as intended by the author.
Is The Dark Tower movie a direct adaptation of the 1982 book?
The 2017 movie titled The Dark Tower is not a direct adaptation of the 1982 book. While it shares the title, the film serves as a continuation and reimagining of the source material rather than a faithful retelling of the events found in the first novel.
How long is the original The Dark Tower book?
The original 1982 book titled The Dark Tower is a single novel that serves as the foundation for the entire series. Its length is defined by the narrative scope of the first installment, which establishes the primary setting and protagonist for the subsequent volumes.
Should I watch The Dark Tower movie before reading the book?
Reading the 1982 book titled The Dark Tower before watching the 2017 movie is recommended. The book provides the necessary context and foundational lore required to understand the complex world, whereas the movie assumes familiarity with the source material to follow its own narrative path.