Raw by Scott Monk, Hard Rock by Etheridge Knight and Dangerous Minds by John N. SmithInstitutions can have positive and negative effects that can alter the lives of an individual's perceptions, judgments and values. Scott Monk's "Raw," Etheridge Knight's "Hard Rock," and John N. Smith's "Dangerous Minds" help communicate an understanding of how such institutions can reform an individual. The novel "Raw", written by Scott Monk, is simple in style but introduces an interesting and acceptable look at the concept of "institution and individual experience". Brett Dalton resembles a reactionary, highly agitated character who challenges or feels confronted by structures of authority or control. Using Brett as the protagonist, Monk opens the novel with a prologue that describes Brett as a delinquent and confused teenager who refuses to take responsibility for his own affairs. actions. His intolerance leads him to commit a crime: breaking into a bottle shop; this explains why he is in the institution called "farm", which can be described as a "halfway house" with security ranging from none to maximum security. This institution welcomes troubled teenagers, where it is their second chance to become better individuals. Throughout the novel Brett is symbolized as the troubled teenager who overcomes his ignorance. On the farm, Brett meets caretaker Sam, who is symbolized not only as a role model but also as the cause of Brett's positive change. Sam respects every individual equally and believes that everyone deserves a second chance, but Brett, at first, tolerates no one, especially people in authority: "they're the enemy, and you never get friendly with the enemy." This shows Brett's attitude and protest towards... the paper... the students. Many students have no sense of belonging and see no importance in being in a place where even teachers have no expectations for them. All until Lou Anne Johnson arrives. Lou Anne gives students hope and shows students that there can be some positive effects of the institution. But the negative effects end up reappearing when a student is removed on principle based on a petty rule. This emphasizes and focuses on rules and order rather than the individual. The consequence of the student in this case is death. Lou Anne sums up this incident aptly: “What should I tell them? If they don't want to die, remember to knock?" "Raw," "Hard Rock" and "Dangerous Minds" all infer to exemplify one meaning: institutions have the power to radically change the personal experiences of any individual.