The Institute: A Novel by King Stephen

In Stephen King's "The Institute," Luke Ellis is abruptly taken from his home in the dead of night after his parents are murdered. He wakes up at The Institute, a secretive facility where children with special abilities like telekinesis and telepathy are kept. The children are divided into Front Half and Back Half, with the latter being a mysterious and ominous place from which no one has ever returned.

Under the ruthless direction of Mrs. Sigsby, the staff at The Institute exploit the children's powers without mercy. Compliance is rewarded with tokens for vending machines, while disobedience is met with severe punishment. As Luke witnesses his friends being sent to Back Half one by one, he becomes increasingly desperate to escape and seek help.

Comparisons to King's earlier works like "Firestarter" and "It" are apt, as "The Institute" is described as a chilling and gripping tale of kids facing unimaginable evil. With its blend of terror and empathy, the novel is hailed as another classic from King, showcasing his talent for creating hauntingly believable stories that resonate with readers long after the final page.