"The Running Man" is a gripping science fiction novel by Stephen King set in a dystopian future where survival becomes the ultimate challenge. The story follows Ben Richards, a desperate man who finds himself in a brutal reality TV format where participants must fight for their lives. With a sick daughter and no prospects, Ben signs up for the country's most dangerous show, where he must survive for 30 days while being pursued by a professional hunting team. The tension and thrill of the plot are heightened by the moral dilemmas and societal commentary that King skillfully weaves in. The novel not only explores human survival instincts but also the dark sides of entertainment and competition in modern society. The captivating narrative and profound characters make "The Running Man" an essential work for fans of science fiction and thrillers.