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Flowers For Algernon

The must-read literary science fiction masterpiece
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( 710,011 ratings, 37,185 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes is a science fiction novel that follows Charlie Gordon, a man with a low IQ, who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. As Charlie's intellect grows, he experiences profound changes in his life and relationships, leading to both triumphant and heartrending moments. The novel explores themes of human potential, ethics, and the complexities of emotional and intellectual growth.
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Format: Paperback / softback

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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy thought-provoking and emotional sci-fi stories that explore the complexities of intelligence, human connection, and self-discovery. It's a deeply moving tale that examines the ethical implications of scientific experiments on the human mind.

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Flowers For Algernon

A novel of a daring experiment in human intelligence.

No.25 in the Millennium SF Masterworks series, a library of the finest science fiction ever written * Winner of the HUGO and NEBULA awards. * 'A narrative tour de force, very moving, beautiful and remorseless in its simple logic' Science Fiction: 100 Best Novels * Basis for the Oscar winning film Charly.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Flowers For Algernon by Daniel Keyes is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking novel that tells the story of Charlie Gordon, a kind-hearted and intellectually disabled man working as a floor sweeper in a bakery. Often the target of cruel jokes by his co-workers, Charlie dreams of being smart and accepted like others. His life takes a dramatic turn when he gets selected for an experimental surgery aimed at enhancing human intelligence.

The procedure, which has previously succeeded in significantly raising the IQ of a mouse named Algernon, offers Charlie the hope of a brighter future. As he undergoes the transformation, Charlie's intellectual capabilities grow, and he becomes a genius. The newly acquired intelligence allows him to view the world in a completely different light, unveiling both the beauty and the harsh realities of human relationships and societal prejudice.

However, the story takes an emotional turn when the experiment shows alarming side effects. Algernon begins to regress, losing his enhanced intelligence and eventually dying. This development raises troubling questions about the permanency of Charlie's condition and forces him to confront the possibility that his own remarkable transformation might be fleeting.

Flowers For Algernon explores themes of human dignity, the ethics of scientific experimentation, and the complexities of human emotions. Through Charlie's journey, Daniel Keyes beautifully captures the spectrum of human experience, making readers ponder the essence of intelligence and what it truly means to be accepted and loved.

This novel is a compelling read that combines science fiction with a deeply emotional narrative, offering valuable insights into the human condition. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and an unforgettable story that lingers long after the last page is turned.

Series: S.F. Masterworks

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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Flowers For Algernon by Daniel Keyes is praised for its poignant brilliance and emotional depth. The story and protagonist have left a lasting impact on many readers. With its heart-wrenching narrative, it is considered a timeless tearjerker and a strikingly original work. The book is noted for its unflinching honesty and ability to provoke deep reflection.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781857989380

Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 13 January 2000

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Gollancz

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 18.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 200g

Pages: 224

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About the Author

Born in 1927 Daniel Keyes joined the US merchant marine aged 17. He won the Hugo for the short story that Flowers for Algernon was based on and the Nebula for the novel itself. He has a masters degree in English and American literature and is a Professor of English and Creative writing. He lives in America

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