Stephen King’s “The Stand” Gets New Life in “The End of the World As We Know It” — Read an Excerpt! (Exclusive)

In a thrilling development for fans of Stephen King’s iconic novel “The Stand,” a new anthology is set to breathe fresh life into the beloved apocalyptic tale. The anthology, titled “The End of the World As We Know It,” is curated by Christopher Golden and Brian Keene, boasting an exclusive excerpt that has been unveiled by PEOPLE. The collection of stories promises to delve into the intense and gripping world of The Stand, offering readers a unique perspective on the events that unfold before and after the original narrative.

The anthology features a star-studded lineup of contributors, including renowned literary figures and celebrities such as Wayne Brady, S. A. Cosby, Tananarive Due, and more. The anthology kicks off with an introduction by none other than Stephen King himself, followed by a foreword penned by Golden, setting the stage for a collection of “brilliant, terrifying and painfully human tales” that will thrill and chill readers alike. Among the esteemed contributors is Tim Lebbon, whose story “Grace” offers a haunting glimpse into a post-apocalyptic world far removed from the comforts of Earth.

In Lebbon’s gripping narrative, readers are transported to a space shuttle where the crew grapples with nightmares and the harsh reality of their circumstances. The tension builds as Gemma, one of the crew members, struggles with the ghosts of her past and the eerie presence that seems to haunt the confines of their spacecraft. As the crew navigates the challenges of their situation, they are forced to confront their fears, uncertainties, and the looming specter of an uncertain future in a world ravaged by the devastating aftermath of a deadly pandemic.

The story unfolds with a sense of unease and impending doom, drawing readers into a world where survival hangs in the balance and each decision carries life-and-death consequences. Gemma, Matt, and Lizzie, the crew members at the heart of the tale, face a stark reality as they grapple with the limitations of their resources, the fragility of their sanity, and the weight of their isolation in the vast expanse of space. Lebbon masterfully weaves a narrative that juxtaposes the beauty of the cosmos with the harsh realities of human frailty, creating a compelling and immersive reading experience that will leave readers on the edge of their seats.

As the crew members confront their inner demons and the external threats that loom large around them, they are forced to reckon with the harsh truths of their existence and the stark choices that confront them. With each passing moment, the tension mounts, driving towards a climactic finale that will test their resolve, their humanity, and their capacity for survival in a world that has been irrevocably changed by catastrophe.

“The End of the World As We Know It” promises to be a captivating addition to the Stephen King universe, offering readers a fresh perspective on the timeless themes of fear, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of adversity. As readers delve into the anthology, they will be transported to a world where the familiar and the fantastical collide, where hope flickers in the darkness, and where the true test of character lies in the crucible of chaos and despair. The anthology is set to hit shelves on Aug. 19, inviting readers to embark on a thrilling journey into the heart of darkness and emerge changed by the experience.