Discusses the young adult book "Flowers for Algernon" by Daniel Keyes, including the author's life, the science fiction genre, and the book's plot, characters, and themes. "What if scientists could increase man's intelligence?" Tragic consequences come to life in the poignant words of Charlie, a mentally challenged man made brilliant through surgery. Readers will ponder the ethical use of science, the meaning of intelligence, and the importance of human affection in this science-fiction classic.