Fan-favorite metalhead Eddie Munson, played in season four of “Stranger Things” by Joseph Quinn, is getting his own story! This October, his backstory will be revealed in Stranger Things: Flight of Icarus, a new novel by Caitlin Schneiderhan. It will take us deep into Eddie’s past, two years before the events of Season 4. Published by Penguin Random House, this prequel promises a thrilling journey exploring the origins of the charismatic Hawkins outcast.
Before the Upside Down:
Flight of Icarus rewinds the clock to 1984, revealing a different side of Eddie. While Season 4 introduced him as the “nerdy lost sheep of Hawkins High,” the book delves into his hidden depths. We’ll see Eddie grappling with complex family dynamics and chasing a dream – a chance for musical glory with his band Corroded Coffin. However, fame doesn’t come cheap, and Eddie must make difficult choices, even resorting to his father’s questionable schemes, to finance his aspirations.
From Misfit to Hero:
Schneiderhan, who also happens to be a co-writer on Season 5 of “Stranger Things,” offers unique insights into Eddie’s evolution. Despite his initial portrayal as a social outlier, she highlights how Eddie possesses a hidden heroism waiting to be unleashed. “I’m excited for fans to witness his messy journey towards becoming the hero we know and love,” she says.
The Power of Authenticity:
Eddie’s unapologetic individuality resonated deeply with audiences in Season 4. Schneiderhan attributes this to his genuineness: “His lack of pretense and ability to inspire others to be themselves make him irresistible.” The book delves deeper into this facet, showcasing the formative experiences and relationships that shaped his unique personality.
A Glimpse into Eddie’s World:
Schneiderhan promises to introduce us to the key figures who influenced Eddie’s path, offering a richer understanding of the man behind the metalhead persona. “I can’t wait for fans to meet them,” she states.
A Fan Favorite:
Fans so loved Quinn’s Eddie that not only did he get an outpouring of love from fans on social media, but homages were made to him left and right, including from a farm famous for its crop art. Even Metallica frontman James Hetfield got in on the action; He took to TikTok to duet the song Eddie played in one of the series’ most impressive scenes (watch below).
Rumors are that we haven’t seen the last of Eddie, even though we were made to think he was killed at the end of season 4. Are the rumors true? God, we hope so.
A Celebration of Eddie:
With Flight of Icarus, Schneiderhan delivers a heartfelt tribute to Eddie Munson, a character who captured hearts worldwide. By exploring Eddie’s past struggles and triumphs, the book promises to solidify his place as a beloved icon of the “Stranger Things” universe. So, prepare to rock out with Eddie as he navigates the complexities of life, ambition, and the murky underbelly of Hawkins in this highly anticipated prequel novel set to hit stores on October 31, 2024. You can pre-order your copy now.
