The Institute (by Stephen King)
I never know where a novel by Stephen King is going to take me and that’s what I love about his story telling talent. In The Institute, readers first meet Tim Jamieson, a cop who is relocating to DuPray, South Carolina to escape a tragic life event. Next, we meet Luke Ellis, an amazingly intelligent young boy with a special gift. Luke’s parents are murdered in the middle of the night by a special operations team, and Luke is taken to The Institute. There, Luke meets other kids who also have special gifts of telekinesis and telepathy.
At The Institute, the kids are tested regarding their abilities and treated with tokens if they cooperate. For those who choose not to cooperate, they receive severe punishments. They begin their time in Front Half, and once they are moved to Back Half…well, no one really knows for sure, but it’s a place all of the kids fear. As soon as Luke arrives in Front Half, he knows this isn’t a place he wants to stay.
King introduces fascinating concepts that made my skin prickle. He introduces theories I hope stay in the realm of fiction. The story is suspenseful; the last 100 pages were intense. I couldn’t stop reading until I finished the book. I picked up on nods from King’s previous works: Firestarter, The Outsider, and Salem’s Lot. I also noticed the character, George Iles, which must be a tip of the hat to another author King is friends with, and an author I also enjoy.
The Institute is an excellent book. When I look at it on my bookshelf, I will fondly remember the characters and how much I enjoyed my time with them.
You’re welcome to check out my reviews of other Stephen King books below.
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