Flowers for Algernon
In 'Flowers for Algernon,' we follow Charlie Gordon, a man with an intellectual disability, who becomes the subject of an experimental surgery designed to enhance his intelligence. As his IQ rises, Charlie experiences the joys of genius, as well as the pain of lost connections with those he once loved. The narrative, told through Charlie's poignant progress reports, raises profound questions about the nature of intelligence, humanity, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation. As Charlie's newfound brilliance leads to heartbreaking revelations, the line between brilliance and isolation becomes hauntingly clear. Will the temporary gift of intelligence prove to be a blessing or a curse?
By Daniel Keyes
Published: NaN
"I am not a writer. I am not an author. I am just a man who is trying to become better."
Start Listening
What Readers Say About This Book
Mentally retarded Charlie Gordon participates in an experiment which turns him into a genius, but only temporarily.
About the Author
Daniel Keyes
Daniel Keyes was an American author best known for his groundbreaking science fiction novel 'Flowers for Algernon,' which explores themes of intelligence, ethics, and human dignity through the story of Charlie Gordon, a man with intellectual disabilities who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. Published in 1966, the book became a significant work in the genre and was later adapted into a film and stage play. Keyes' writing style is characterized by its emotional depth, psychological insight, and thought-provoking narratives that often challenge societal perceptions of intelligence and disability. Besides 'Flowers for Algernon,' Keyes authored several other works, including 'The Minds of Billy Miligan' and 'The Touch.' His contributions to literature have left a lasting impact on both readers and writers.
Book Details
Key information about the book.
- Authors
- Daniel Keyes
- Published
- N/A
- Publisher
- Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
- ISBN
- 0156030306
- Language
- English
- Pages
- 328
- Genres
- Philosophy of MindFictionScience Fiction
Purchase Options
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Similar books you might like →
The Left Hand of Darkness
Ursula K. Le Guin
The Success Equation
Michael J. Mauboussin
Suffering Is Optional
Cheri Huber
100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know about People
Susan Weinschenk
The Elements of Scrum
Chris Sims, Hillary Louise Johnson
Exhalation
Ted Chiang
A Wrinkle in Time
Madeleine L'Engle
The Connected Company
Dave Gray, Thomas Vander Wal
Showing 8 of 27 similar books
Take your reading experience to the next level
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
Book Collections you might like →
Adam Grant's Book Recommendations
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
View Collection
Barack Obama's Book Recommendations
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
View Collection
Susan Cain's Book Recommendations
Susan Cain is a celebrated author and speaker best known for her groundbreaking work on the power of introversion. Her debut book, "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking," became a New York Times bestseller and has been translated into over 40 languages, significantly influencing how society views introversion and extroversion. Cain's impactful TED Talk on the same subject has garnered millions of views, further cementing her influence. She co-founded the Quiet Revolution, an initiative aimed at empowering introverts in various aspects of life. Cain's insightful contributions have sparked a global conversation about the strengths and needs of introverts, reshaping workplace dynamics and educational practices.
View Collection
Astro Teller's Book Recommendations
Astro Teller is an American entrepreneur, scientist, and the CEO of X (formerly Google X), Alphabet’s innovation lab dedicated to developing groundbreaking technologies. Often referred to as "Captain of Moonshots," Teller leads a team focused on tackling some of the world’s biggest challenges through radical solutions. Under his leadership, X has worked on projects like self-driving cars (Waymo), internet balloons (Loon), and delivery drones (Wing). Teller holds a PhD in artificial intelligence and has a deep background in science and technology, blending his technical expertise with a passion for innovation. He is a proponent of a fail-fast approach, encouraging experimentation and learning from failure as integral parts of the innovation process. Teller’s work at X has placed him at the forefront of the tech world’s quest for transformative technologies. Outside of his work at X, he is an accomplished author, having written both fiction and non-fiction, and is an advocate for the future of AI and robotics.
View Collection
Tom Hanks's Book Recommendations
Tom Hanks is an acclaimed American actor and filmmaker, renowned for his versatile roles in iconic films such as "Forrest Gump," "Saving Private Ryan," and "Cast Away." Beyond his cinematic achievements, Hanks has made significant contributions to literature, notably with his collection of short stories titled "Uncommon Type," which showcases his talent as a writer. His storytelling prowess extends to his work as a producer and director, where he has brought numerous historical and literary adaptations to life. Hanks's dedication to his craft has earned him numerous accolades, including two Academy Awards for Best Actor. Additionally, his engaging narrative style and keen insight into human experiences have solidified his reputation as a multifaceted artist in both film and literature.
View Collection
Andrew Wilkinson's Book Recommendations
Andrew Wilkinson is a distinguished author and entrepreneur, best known for his insightful business writings and contributions to the tech industry. He co-founded MetaLab, a prominent design agency that has shaped the user experience of major platforms like Slack and Coinbase. Wilkinson's entrepreneurial journey and his publications provide valuable perspectives on startup culture, innovation, and leadership. His writing, often featured in leading business magazines and his personal blog, has garnered a wide readership for its practical advice and engaging storytelling. Andrew continues to influence both literature and the business world with his unique blend of creativity and strategic thinking.
View Collection
Aubrey Marcus's Book Recommendations
Aubrey Marcus is an influential entrepreneur, author, and podcaster, best known for founding Onnit, a health and wellness company dedicated to optimizing human performance. He authored the acclaimed book "Own the Day, Own Your Life," which offers practical advice on improving daily routines for overall well-being. Marcus's contributions to literature extend through his insightful podcasts and articles that delve into personal development, mental health, and holistic living. As a thought leader, he has inspired countless individuals to pursue a balanced and fulfilling life. His work continues to resonate with a global audience, promoting a message of self-empowerment and holistic health.
View Collection
Jordan Hughes's Book Recommendations
Jordan Hughes is a celebrated author known for their compelling narratives and richly developed characters. Their debut novel, "Echoes of Tomorrow," won the prestigious Man Booker Prize, marking a significant milestone in contemporary fiction. Hughes's work often explores themes of identity, resilience, and the human condition, earning them critical acclaim and a dedicated readership. In addition to their novels, Hughes has contributed thought-provoking essays to major literary journals, further solidifying their influence in the literary world. Their innovative storytelling continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
View CollectionShowing 8 of 18 related collections
“I am not a writer. I am not an author. I am just a man who is trying to become better.”
Flowers for Algernon
By Daniel Keyes
Explore Our Catalogue
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
