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54 pages 1 hour read

The Institute

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019

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Book Brief

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Stephen King

The Institute

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2019
Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Maine, Minnesota • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

HL770L

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Super Short Summary

In Stephen King's sci-fi thriller The Institute, 12-year-old Luke Ellis, a boy with psychic abilities, is abducted by a sinister organization that experiments on children with special powers. As Luke befriends other imprisoned children, they band together to plan a daring escape and expose the horrifying truth about the Institute. Contains depictions of child abuse and references to concentration camps.

Mysterious

Dark

Suspenseful

Unnerving

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.4

351,478 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stephen King's The Institute is lauded for its gripping narrative and compelling characters, reminiscent of his earlier works. Reviewers praise its intense atmosphere and moving depiction of children with supernatural abilities. However, some critique it for a slow middle section and predictable elements. Overall, it delivers strong suspense and emotional depth.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Institute?

Fans of thrilling, character-driven narratives will be captivated by Stephen King's The Institute. Ideal for readers who appreciate the suspense of Stranger Things and the psychological depth of It, this novel offers a chilling blend of horror and speculative fiction, making it perfect for those who enjoy intense, immersive storytelling.

4.4

351,478 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Tim Jamieson

Tim is tall and broad-shouldered, known for his role as DuPray’s “Night Knocker,” and is characterized by his bravery and compassion.

A twelve-year-old with extraordinary intelligence, Luke becomes a leader among his peers at the Institute, using strategy and kindness to influence those around him.

A ten-year-old telepathically gifted boy, Avery is smaller than his age but significant in power within the Institute's hierarchy.

The unyielding Administrator of the Institute, Mrs. Sigsby is dedicated to its mission, overseeing the operations and maintaining control.

Maureen works at the Institute driven by personal circumstances and reveals complexity in her interactions with the children over time.

Annie is a homeless woman who shows belief in and advocacy for those she cares about, recognized for her distinct attire and conspiratorial mindset.

As Security Chief and ally to Mrs. Sigsby, he underestimates the children at the Institute, viewing them through a controlling lens.

Kalisha acts as a nurturing figure for her peers, especially for Avery, providing comfort and connection amongst the children.

Nicky is a resilient and spirited member of the friend group at the Institute, noted for his determination and his close bond with Kalisha.

George is known for his humor and ability to lift the spirits of the children around him at the Institute.

Two kind children in Luke's group, known for their supportive and friendly nature, with Iris being the first lost to Back Half.

Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Maine, Minnesota • Contemporary

Publication Year

2019

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

HL770L

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