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kitkat962's review against another edition
5.0
I wasn't brought to tears as suggested by many, but it's a great read. The book was structured as "progress reports" by Charlie Gordon, a mentally-retarded man. I like how his use of grammar and vocabulary advanced after the operation and then declined with his intelligence flux (even though I don't know if this is a realistic representation of the mentally disabled?)
The story revolves around Charlie accomplishing feats with his intelligence modified, yet the emotional immaturity causes him great suffering. The report narrates how the world changes from his new perspective. Here is where I think the book can be something bigger: the message felt easy (intelligence is bad without love, society's perspective of the disabled, the examination of self). The characters lack depth (except maybe Alice), I think it's okay for Charlie to have more observations without interpretations.
4.5 stars
The story revolves around Charlie accomplishing feats with his intelligence modified, yet the emotional immaturity causes him great suffering. The report narrates how the world changes from his new perspective. Here is where I think the book can be something bigger: the message felt easy (intelligence is bad without love, society's perspective of the disabled, the examination of self). The characters lack depth (except maybe Alice), I think it's okay for Charlie to have more observations without interpretations.
4.5 stars
jadedreads's review against another edition
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
iqra_15's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
informative
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
cal_lindamood's review against another edition
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
irmaak's review against another edition
5.0
A beautiful extraordinary story. Every single little detail is heartwarming but heartbreaking at the same time.
Merged review:
A beautiful extraordinary story. Every single little detail is heartwarming but heartbreaking at the same time.
Merged review:
A beautiful extraordinary story. Every single little detail is heartwarming but heartbreaking at the same time.
athu's review against another edition
5.0
I had started this book years back and but did not have the heart to finish it. Now that I did, I know why I stalled it. It's so heavy and yet sweet. Humans are truly such complex creatures.
rumba2007's review against another edition
5.0
Easily one of the best books I read all year. I would recommend this book to all of my friends.
mattp3's review against another edition
5.0
Not too long but nonetheless emotional and gripping. A rollercoaster of pathos. Honestly finding it hard to put precisely into words the range of emotions I'm feeling after finishing this, or what I felt as I read it. Everyone should read this book.
tsubibo's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
informative
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Ableism