Carrie is Stephen King’s first published novel. As such, it is sort of a blueprint for a lot of his other stories. It takes place in a small town in Maine, there are various residents who all live these “small town” lives. Like most small towns, it is also full of secrets. One being Carrie, a young girl who finds that she has telekinetic powers. In comic books and movies people who have superpowers are usually attractive, confident, and self assured, but not Carrie. She has little to no friends in school, no social life, and is frequently bullied by her peers both for her physical appearance, and for her social awkwardness.

Carrie is a cautionary tale, especially for those for are mean (“bully”) to others. You never know when one cruel word could push someone over the edge. When Carrie is pushed over the edge, her retribution is swift and horrifying. One has to wonder, would a kind word from a friend have helped to prevent the tragedy that happens at the end of the book?

Even though most young women do not have superpowers (that we know of), it doesn’t hurt to be reminded to always be kind to those around you. You never know what will set someone over the edge, to the point of no return. There is a reason that this book continues to be one of King’s most beloved. It’s timeless message and powerful ending is something that can be understood by readers of all ages