Each character is well-rounded and lively enough to jump off the page. Par for the course in any King novel, the world-building done within the pages of The Institute is masterful.

In the vein of his wildly successful coming-of-age tale IT, King has created a cast of characters led by a close-knit group of children who are fierce yet terrified and ultimately determined to save the day. Little does he know how his world will collide with Luke’s. Drawn to stay there for reasons he does not entirely understand, Jamieson takes a meager job and waits to see where life leads him next. Setting out from Florida and headed to New York in search of a fresh start, he becomes sidetracked in a small South Carolina town. While Luke orients himself to his new “home” deep in the woods of Maine, a former law enforcement officer by the name of Tim Jamieson is in search of a new home of his own. And with any great fortune, do something about it. Luke, however, is determined to learn why this hell on earth exists. Gifted with the powers that lead to their incarceration and abuse at the hands of a group of adults who believe they are saving the world. Gifted with the powers to, respectively, read the thoughts of others and move objects with their minds. These children, some as young as eight years old, many older teenagers, are gifted with telepathy and telekinesis. The Institute is the story of Luke Ellis, one of a large collection of children with supernatural powers who are abducted and held captive for… well, for reasons you must read to find out. At age 72, his writing is just as good – and arguably more popular – than ever and his newest release, The Institute, is no exception. A name which is synonymous with a nearly unparalleled list of works, plenty of which have been adapted for both the small and big screens. Even if you never read one of his books, it is unlikely you are unfamiliar with his name.

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