The Institute

The Institute by Stephen King is a gripping and thrilling story of a group of extraordinary children fighting against an ominous and malevolent institution. Nestled deep in the dense forests of Maine lies a clandestine government facility known simply as the Institute, where children with exceptional abilities like telekinesis and telepathy are held captive. They are subjected to relentless scientific experiments and harsh conditions, with no hope of ever seeing freedom outside the foreboding walls.

The narrative centres around twelve-year-old Luke Ellis, a prodigy whose extraordinary intellect is matched by his mystical abilities. Luke finds himself the latest victim, abducted and transported to this eerie facility. There, he meets Kalisha, Nick, Iris, and other gifted children, all trapped and subjected to ruthless tests. Despite their dire situation, the children form a bond, united by a shared desire to escape the nightmarish Institute.

Meanwhile, in a quiet town in South Carolina, a former cop named Tim Jamieson seeks the tranquillity of a simple life. Having taken up a job with the local sheriff, Tim is unaware that his path is about to entwine with the fate of Luke and his friends. Unbeknownst to him, he is on the brink of embarking on the biggest and most dangerous case of his career.

The stakes are immensely high in The Institute, as Luke teams up with an even younger boy whose telepathic powers are unmatched by anyone else in the facility. Together, they muster the courage to defy the odds and challenge their captors in a high-stakes escape effort. What follows is an epic tale of resilience, friendship, and survival against an omnipresent evil intent on exploiting their gifts.

"It does everything you'd expect of a masterpiece - and it is one." Sunday Express

"Hums and crackles with delicious unease." Independent

"Captivating." The Sunday Times

"An absorbing thriller." Mail on Sunday

With his signature storytelling prowess, Stephen King crafts a heart-pounding narrative about childhood innocence embroiled in the depths of darkness and betrayal. The Institute is not just a suspenseful thriller but also a profound exploration of hope regained after traumatic sacrifices.

"An epic tale of childhood betrayal and hope regained...an immersive tale full of suspense and thrills that will keep readers up late at night racing towards a heartbreaking yet glorious finale...a dazzling achievement." - Daily Express

Prepare to be enthralled and terrified in equal measure as Stephen King delivers another spellbinding masterpiece that delves into the extremes of human resilience and the battle between innocence and sinister agendas.