Truthfully, I have always viewed horror literature as a kind of "catharsis" to the human spirit. Certainly, horror serves as a mirror that is often difficult to look into. You're right on, I think, in many ways....King is becoming more socially acceptable, because his work allows us a true insight into the most bleak, but also, the most beautiful of the human spirit. In American society, this mode of acceptance can certainly be traced to the recent fears of 9/11, war, etc....We've had negative images crammed down our throats on a daily basis, and it's getting harder to shelter our children from the reality of human atrocities. But, in thinking about the works of King, there is ALWAYS something to balance even the darkest of evils...whether it be a ka-tet of seven children against the sewer monster or a ka-tet led by Roland to stand against the Crimson King. While evils do exist in King's universe, there is also a tangible good that at least attempts to stand against it. What parent wouldn't want to expose her/his children to such a hopeful theme? Yes, children probably can connect with the children of King's work, because, through what I remembered of my first reading of "It” (I was probably around the twelve mark), it empowered me to deal with my own monsters as much as it empowered the kids to wage battle the demon clown from "outside."

You know, you share a trait with the Dark Master himself; King once said that he has to have his feet covered at night, which completely humanizes the man and likely emphasizes your point. I remember his statement about the heart on his desk, a response to a judgmental reader who thought his ideas were atrocious and unhealthy. But we have to face the fact that the world is a scary place; do I think that we should teach our children to hide underneath their beds and never trust anyone? Not at all! In fact, horror literature allows a safe examination of the human psyche and enables the reader to better prepare to face the grim realities with hope and the opportunity for triumph.

It is interesting that you mention "Apt Pupil." Violent, disturbing, and truly horrific because it touches on the human capability to do evil to each other and, lets not forget, it’s based on the actual events of the Holocaust. This could be an extremely useful tool to a teenager, particularly if a parent actually shares in the reading and discusses the implications of the feelings the tale elicits, the emotions it creates, etc. Not only is the parent taking an active involvement and nurturing empathy building related exercises, it helps "de-mystify" such readings and allows the child a better understanding through exposure. In other words, if you say to your kid "Hey, you're never allowed to watch scary movies!" they are likely going to attempt to do it anyway, because it's so cool to be rebellious, right? Might as well teach them to enjoy it responsibly; like all tools, without proper supervision and guidance, serious injuries may occur! =) Not all kids will be ready
at twelve, and some might never be ready at all; we have to understand that each child is different. You stated that you would allow exposure of King's work to your kids when you felt they were mature enough, and, speaking as a father myself, I think this is an absolutely perfect and awesome way to go about it.