Carrie

When I say I read a thriller today, I did!  What could be the best answer to reduce bullying than force the bullies to read Stephen King’s book Carrie.  The story of a young woman who is brutally attacked verbally (and eventually physically) during the 1970s in a small town in Maine.  The book is King’s first in a litany of books to come, many which just scares the ____ out of you.  This story is of Carrie White, a shy girl coming from an “awkward” family (father was killed, Mom is a religious fanatic who doesn’t allow Carrie to be around others).  As Carrie receives uncivil treatment from others she develops “telekinetic” powers.  She is able to use her powers to thwart others’ anger and hate towards her.  The years of bad treatment culminates at the high school prom where Carrie and her date are crowned the homecoming king and queen.  The horrible moments afterwards brings utter terror to the small town.  This is a short and beautifully crafted book by King.  His ability to develop intricate characters and storylines that create terror in a reader is second to none.  I barely remember the movie, as I watched it decades ago, but it all flooded back in the last scene as the prom comes to an infamous end.  Carrie does send that message to the bullies – especially if the one being harassed can do amazing things with her mind to avenge the ill treatment of others.  Great read, well I actually listened to it.  Cissy Spacek was the narrator and did a wonderful job.  I’d read this one during the day and make sure others are around you.