64 pages • 2 hours read
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311
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1960s
1966
YA
14-18 years
910L
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes follows Charlie Gordon, a 32-year-old man with an intellectual disability, who undergoes an experimental procedure to significantly boost his intelligence. Initially a success, Charlie rapidly gains intellect but struggles emotionally. As he recalls painful memories and grapples with complex emotions, the procedure's effects reverse, leading to his intellectual decline. The book includes depictions of explicit sexual content, abuse, bullying, and outdated language regarding disabilities.
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Emotional
Inspirational
Challenging
731,880 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Daniel Keyes' Flowers For Algernon is lauded for its profound exploration of human intelligence and ethical science, with Charlie's journey offering a poignant narrative that resonates deeply. Yet, some critics note its dated perspectives and occasionally simplistic characterizations. Overall, the emotional depth and impactful themes make it a compelling read.
Readers who enjoy poignant and thought-provoking narratives with psychological depth would be drawn to Daniel Keyes' Flowers For Algernon. Fans of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein and Aldous Huxley's Brave New World will appreciate its exploration of the human mind, ethical dilemmas, and the impact of scientific experimentation.
731,880 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alice (Miss Kinnian)
Charlie’s teacher and friend at the Beekman College Center, who recognizes his potential and supports him throughout the story.
The Bakery Crew
Charlie's coworkers who serve as a source of familiarity, some of whom bully him, impacting his perception of friendship.
Fay Lillman
An artist and free spirit who enters Charlie's life later, providing him with a contrasting lifestyle and influencing his understanding of relationships.
Matt
Charlie's father, who appears in both Charlie’s childhood memories and briefly as an adult, representing a complex family history.
Rose
Charlie’s mother, remembered by him for her harsh treatment and sentimentalized through contrasting memories.
Norma
Charlie's sister, seen as a child in his memories and reconciled with as an adult, impacting his family relations.
Burt
A graduate student at the Beekman lab who conducts tests with Charlie and later becomes a voice of reason and empathy.
Professor Nemur
A lead researcher focused on the experiment’s success, whose relationship with Charlie is more clinical than personal.
Dr. Strauss
A researcher and therapist involved in Charlie’s procedure, demonstrating more concern for Charlie’s emotional development.
311
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1960s
1966
YA
14-18 years
910L
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