Important Events in Stephen King's Life By amanfa Sep 21, 1947 Born in Portland, Maine Jan 2, 1971 Marries Tabitha Spruce Aug 20, 1971 Begins teaching English at Hampden Academy Apr 4, 1974 Published first book (Carrie) Dec 24, 1978 Won first award American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults for 'Salem's Lot May 23, 1980 The Shining becomes a movie Sep 23, 1994 World renowned movie The Shawshank Redemption is released Jun 4, 2013 Published 50th book (Joyland)