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Book, Book Blog, Book Blogger, Book Review, books, Daniel Keyes, Fiction, Flowers for Algernon, review
I don’t know what’s worse: to not know what you are and be happy, or to become what you’ve always wanted to be, and feel alone.
Flowers for Algernon – Daniel Keyes
Initial Thoughts: This book is a 20th century classic. I had no clue what it was about, and I didn’t know anyone in my friend circle who has read it. All I knew is that there was a mouse on the cover. Intuitively, I knew that the mouse was Algernon. Why do we need to buy flowers for Algernon? You’ll find out if you read the book.
Summary
The story of a mentally disabled man whose experimental quest for intelligence mirrors that of Algernon, an extraordinary lab mouse. In diary entries, Charlie tells how a brain operation increases his IQ and changes his life. As the experimental procedure takes effect, Charlie’s intelligence expands until it surpasses that of the doctors who engineered his metamorphosis. The experiment seems to be a scientific breakthrough of paramount importance until Algernon begins his sudden, unexpected deterioration. Will the same happen to Charlie?
The Review
Are you looking for a book that will break your heart? If yes, then look no further than Flowers for Algernon.
I had seen this book featured on many lists and heard the title in passing. I figured that it must be the story of a little mouse (most of the book covers feature a mouse). I also knew that this book was supposed to be sad. So, I figured that Flowers for Algernon was the tragic tale of a little mouse.
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