Review: Flowers for Algernon by Daniel Keyes

I have recently finished reading Flowers for Algernon, by Daniel Keyes. First of all I have been interested in reading this book for some time, but it was my mistake to assume that it was a short story. I actually came about it when looking to find books to read for my book club. I walked by it and was immediately drawn to it. I told myself not to read it till I finished one of the books I had stopped in the middle of, but instead it called to me. I appreciate that I didn't listen to the inner mother in me and read it any way. I am glad that I did because I had a great experience. I cried at the end of the story. I haven't done that in a long time. This story touched me deeply to my soul, that I can't stop myself from writing about it. I have so many thoughts on the book that I'm actually going to write an essay later, to explain some of the themes that I noticed in the book, well in my own opinion.

This story is sad in general. I mean I felt pretty sorry for the main character but in some way at the same time, I could identify with him. I also realize that we take for granted some things that we think are easy, but might really be hard for someone else. He at least was determined to learn and do things and was encouraged. I think if we encouraged those who are mentally, emotionally, and physically challenged to do things that people think they can't do it would be a great thing. I mean he was determined to read and write even though he forgot things and maybe he wasn't the best at it, but he wanted to do it. Pure desire is what we lack weather we are challenged or not. He desired to learn and he didn't care what others thought. He wanted it so bad he could taste it. I have recently realized that I lack desire in my life and I felt a bit jealous of Charlie, since he didn't let anything stop him from attaining what he wanted. He didn't care he just had the pure sense of getting what he desired. I want to feel like that again. Not feel stuck, or unable to get what I truly desire.