Firestarter: A Novel
by Stephen King 1980  / 499 pgs Sci-Fi Horror

MKUltra was the C.I.A experimentation that utilized drugs like L.S.D. as tools for newer torture or interrogation techniques.  Many people were unaware of the true intention for these (and many times illegal) experiments.

Stephen King uses this and builds upon it in this Sci-Fi Horror classic.  Andy McGee and Vicky Tomlinson are college students that are low on money and partake in an experiment at the school that would give them $200 each. They’re informed that mild hallucinogenic drugs will be administered to them, and naturally, the results recorded.  However, it’s a drug called Lot Six designed to give them powers like telekinesis by a secret government organization called The Shop.  Most of the 12 students that volunteered don’t survive the effects of the experiment for too long.  However, Andy and Vicky have mild effects and eventually get married and have a daughter, Charlie McGee, the Firestarter.

Eight-year-old Charlie McGee and her father are on the run because The Shop knows they have powers and want to exploit her abilities.  The story begins and builds up with the Firestarter and what she truly can do.

One of King’s classics takes the reader on many twists and turns.  In the middle of the book, the plot changes from what the reader believes will happen.  There are a few suspensions of beliefs within the story; however, remember this is about a girl who can light things on fire with her mind.  Overall, it’s a good read and won’t disappoint.  For the first time in any King novel that I’ve read so far, one scene, in particular, and I’ll only say The Farm for you dear readers, made me sit up in my chair and think, Oh My Goodness, this is sweet! After I read it, I needed to watch it on Youtube to see if it happens in the movie.

Would I recommend Firestarter to read?  It’s not on my list of first Stephen King choices to read.  However, I would say I did enjoy it and would recommend it if someone desired to dive into it. 

Enjoy a good cup of coffee and get lost in an excellent book,

Lopaka