Questions About Flowers for Algernon

by Daniel Keyes

Reader Q&A

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Answered Questions (26)

Is this book capable of making a person cry while reading it?

Liza I dare you not to cry!

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Is there any material in this book that would make it inappropriate for a younger reader?

Gail Gibbs There are actually two versions. The original 1959 novella was mild enough to be included in my Scholastic Books edition. The novel, sometimes re-titl…moreThere are actually two versions. The original 1959 novella was mild enough to be included in my Scholastic Books edition. The novel, sometimes re-titled Charly after the film came out, goes more into depth of the adult themes, some which might be troubling to a young reader. Both are excellent.(less)

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Would you recommend this book to other people? Why or why not? (no spoilers please)

Courtney It really depends on the type of person. This book requires thought while reading, it's not mindless (couldn't resist) and it's not happy, beginning-t…moreIt really depends on the type of person. This book requires thought while reading, it's not mindless (couldn't resist) and it's not happy, beginning-to-end. It's sad and introspective. Not everyone wants to read that kind of book.(less)

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Why is this listed as 'YA'? The description reads nothing like YA, but the genre is usually an indicator that I won't like a book, so now I'm not sure if I want to read it. Could anyone elaborate on the genre for me, please?

Zuzana Ozanova To be honest, I am surprised to read it is classified as YA. Some other reviewers stated they were assigned the book in middle/high school. But to me …moreTo be honest, I am surprised to read it is classified as YA. Some other reviewers stated they were assigned the book in middle/high school. But to me it is nothing close to YA genre. Very sophisticated and philosophical in nature. Some utopian, scientific parts. To me it read like a beautiful metaphor to life in general and posed several questions to ponder. I would highly recommend it.
Your “not a YA lover either” ;)
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Why flowers though?