One of the most well-known horror writers, Stephen King has written countless novels, many of which have been turned into creepy, haunting movies. But did you know these interesting facts about the writer?

He suffers from triskaidekaphobia

That's right, our writer is terrified of the number 13 - ironic really, for a horror author.

He was inspired by the iconic author, H.P. Lovecraft

King has often cited that one of the works by H.P. Lovecraft - The Lurker of the Threshold - was what inspired him to write, after he found it in the attic.

Some of his books hold more truth than you'd think

Some of King's books are actually a reflection of his life. Jack Torrance (The Shining) is actually based on King, as when he was writing the book, King was drinking heavily. He also doesn't remember writing many of his novels from the 80s, including Cujo, as they were written during his battle with alcoholism. Perhaps that's why so many of his books have bizarre twists and odd quirks?

Many of his books have been adapted

Whilst you probably already knew this, did you know that - according to Guinness Superlatives - more of King's novels have been adapted into films than any other author?

His wife has been more involved than you'd think

King's wife has actually stepped in a number of times when it comes to the author's work. Originally, King was going to throw Carrie, and keep it as a short story. However, his wife saw potential in the story and urged King to continue with the work; the book is actually dedicated to her. She was also the one who recommended that King change the title of Salem's Lot; orginally, it was called Second Coming, but his wife pointed out that it sounded like a "bad sex story".

He loves horror movies

Again, probably an obvious one, but King does have a thing for horror movies. He loved 28 Days Later so much that he bought out the entire screening for it. And now, the director of said movie, is rumoured to be directing the Pet Sematary remake.

Creepy Clowns

By now, most of us have seen the creepy adaptation of King's novel It. However, did you know that one of the inspirations for Pennywise was Ronald McDonald?

A Busy Man

To date, King has written over 49 full length novels, 7 pen-named books, 5 non-fiction texts and 5 short-story collections. For those who didn't know, King used to write under the pen name 'Richard Bachman'; however, once it was discovered who was behind the name, King allowed Bachman to die of 'cancer of the pseudonym'.

And now you know a little more about one of the most famous horror writers of a generation!