Fairy Tale — Stephen King

Summary

Seventeen-year-old Charlie Reade, living in the countryside of America with his father George, endures the painful loss of his mother at the age of seven in a tragic vehicular accident. Consequently, George succumbs to alcoholism to mask his sorrow.

George eventually manages to overcome his addiction, which ultimately leads to Charlie discovering his elderly neighbor, Howard Bowditch, injured and feared by local kids. Owing to his gratitude for his father's recovery, Charlie decides to look after Radar, Mr. Bowditch's German Shepherd, and to offer assistance to the old man upon his return home.

Mr. Bowditch speaks of a hidden gold treasure, which he uses to clear his medical bills. As time progresses, Charlie starts taking more care of Mr. Bowditch. Meanwhile, Radar's health is deteriorating. Unfortunately, Mr. Bowditch succumbs to a heart attack. Before his demise, he reveals that he is 120 years old and mentions a gateway to another realm located in his shed.

This mysterious world is not only home to the gold, but also a sundial with the power to rejuvenate people. Now attached to Radar, Charlie embarks on a journey to this other realm, Empis, hoping to prolong the dog's life.

Once in Empis, Charlie encounters Dora, Claudia, and Leah, who offer him food and guidance. All three suffer from a disfiguring disease known as "the gray". He learns about a formidable adversary known as the Flight Killer, who is revealed to be Leah's brother, Elden.

While in this otherworldly land, Charlie is captured and must fight for his freedom. Four months later, Charlie and Radar return to their world, sealing the portal behind them to prevent others from finding it.