Even the Weakest Can Change the World: Black Girlhood, Resilience and Systemic Evil in Stephen King's Doctor Sleep and Contemporary Society

Abstract

Stephen King's Doctor Sleep (2013) and the 2019 movie depict a battle against unfair systems through Abra Stone, a young Black girl with special powers. Her psychic gift, the ability to shine, is both a weakness and a strength. This paper examines how King's horror story can be interpreted as a metaphor for racial injustice, family trauma and abuse of power. Using ideas from Black feminist thought and trauma studies, it demonstrates that Abra's gift is the hidden talent of many young people who are often ignored or used by society. This study allows readers to understand how horror stories can be used to teach kindness, unity and courage. It also demonstrates that even the weakest people can change the world if they have compassion and the will to fight injustice.