The Gunslinger The Dark Tower I

Although I am a huge Stephen King fan, I have never had the desire to read the Dark Tower series. I picked it up at a yard sale this summer and the other day decided to read it. I can't say that it was the most awesome Stephen King book, it is VERY weird and I can't figure out if this story is taking place in a parallel world, or if it is way in the future or if it is a wasteland for people stuck between heaven and hell. My guess is a world way in the future for now. I am interested enough to read the second book soon.