Flowers for Algernon

by Daniel Keyes
Flowers for Algernon cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Science Fiction (Sci-Fi)
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £9.99–£10.99 Hardback • £15.00
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 5498
  • Added: 2025-10-24
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • Published: 1972-01-01
  • Formats: 4
  • Reviews: 3

Flowers for Algernon tells the story of Charlie Gordon, a man with an IQ of 68 who works at a bakery and attends night school to learn reading and writing. When he is chosen as the first human subject for an experimental surgery designed to increase intelligence, Charlie's life changes dramatically. As his IQ skyrockets, he grapples with newfound knowledge, memories, and emotions, ultimately leading him to question the nature of intelligence and the true meaning of happiness. Originally published as a short story, Flowers for Algernon won the Hugo and Nebula Awards and has since become a classic of science fiction. The novel explores themes of identity, human potential, and the ethical implications of scientific experimentation, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of science and humanity.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · 2025-10-24
brilliant 4.50

The book is a powerful and heartbreaking exploration of intelligence and humanity. It is a modern classic that deserves its acclaim.

This reviewer is amazed they hadn't heard of the book earlier, given its profound impact. They highlight the book's exploration of ethics and its emotional depth. The reviewer finds the book to be a modern classic, praising its ability to humanize its characters and the powerful questions it raises about intelligence and ethics. It's clear that this book has left a strong impression on them, making it a standout in their reading experience.

Quick quotes

    I'm honestly amazed I never heard of Flowers for Algernon earlier, especially considering the work I did in ethics regarding people with learning difficulties.

    It is a modern classic it is easy to see why as it tells the tale of a man trying to find his place in the world.

    It is brilliant, devastating, humanising and emotional.

Frappe and Fiction · 2020-04-17
thought-provoking 4.50

The book is a powerful exploration of intelligence, ethics, psychology, and compassion. It raises multifaceted questions that leave a lasting impact.

This reviewer finds the book to be incredibly powerful due to the multifaceted questions it raises about intelligence, ethics, psychology, and compassion. They appreciate the way the book challenges the reader to think deeply about these topics. The reviewer also notes the emotional impact of the story, highlighting its ability to entertain while also challenging the reader. It's clear that this book has left a strong impression on them, making it a memorable read.

Quick quotes

    Flowers for Algernon is so powerful because of the multifaceted questions it raises about intelligence, ethics, psychology, and compassion.

    It's the kind of story that entertains you while challenging your perceptions.

    It's emotional, thought-provoking, and deeply human.

The Guardian · 2016-05-04
harrowing 4.50

The book is a deeply moving piece of art that has left a lasting impact. It explores complex themes with emotional depth and sensitivity.

This reviewer was deeply affected by the book, noting that it is a piece of art in itself. They mention being reduced to tears, highlighting the emotional impact of the story. The reviewer appreciates the way the book handles complex themes and the profound effect it has on the reader. It's clear that this book has left a lasting impression on them, making it one of the few books that have truly moved them.

Quick quotes

    It's a piece of art in itself.

    I've been reduced to tears by three books in my life and I will unashamedly admit that Flowers for Algernon is one of them.

    The book is a masterpiece of poignant brilliance.

Appears in Lists