Why so few "choose-your-own-adventure" type books?

I've always wondered why the "Choose-your-own-adventure" type of books never gained wide acceptance. Why were they largely confined to just fantasy and RPG? And why mostly kid books?

Why hasn't, for example, Steven King made a novel with a "Choose-your-own-adventure" format? He could let the readers guide the actions of the protagonist. Something like: "If you think Paula should run from the Zombie - turn to page 184. If you think Paula should try to kill the zombie with her axe - turn to page 701. If you think she should stand there and scream like an idiot.... etc... etc...

You would think that there would be at least ONE big-name author who would have tried something like that - if only for a publicity gimmick.

Why so few CYOA books? Is there some kind of stupid copyright law that prevents it? Anyone know?

Is there some kind of stupid copyright law that prevents it?

No.

Video games.

Oh.

Choose your own adventure stories are crappy, and people gave up on the fad.

I agree with Evakian. I think the reason for so few choose your own adventure books is because the majority of those on the market are poorly written. When I read an author I don't want to know where he is going. I don't want to have to do any of the author's work. I want to be so engrossed in the book that I honestly believe the adventure the author chose is the most exciting one there is.

I read those when I was in like, 3rd grade, I remember lol. Any no Ive not seen any since.

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