WASHINGTON - The White House has announced that President Obama will award Maine author Stephen King the National Medal of Arts in ceremonies next week.

King is being given the award for his contributions as an author.

The citation that accompanies the medal states that King is "One of the most popular and prolific writers of our time, Mr. King combines his remarkable storytelling with his sharp analysis of human nature. For decades, his works of horror, suspense, science fiction, and fantasy have terrified and delighted audiences around the world. "

Ten others will also receive the medal.