Hey, what’s up?

One of my seniors from back in university recommended a sci-fi book to me. I had never received a recommendation from her before, so I thought, “Why not give it a whirl?” It turns out to be one of the best sci-fi books I have ever read. I recently found out they made a movie based on this book, but sadly, it’s an older film. Nonetheless, I’m considering watching it with other folks who have read the book, because nothing says “bonding” like judging a movie together! I really hope I’m not spoiling the content of the book in this review… but if I am, well, I’m sorry in advanced!

Just a brief summary: the book follows a guy named Charlie, who starts off as a bit of a moron and transforms into a genius after a brain operation. Think of it as a “From Zero to Hero” story, but with more science and fewer catchy songs! The book is essentially a progress report from Charlie, and you can see from his writing that he’s slowly learning new things until he eventually surpasses everyone around him. Along the way, he faces many challenges and becomes more aware of what’s happening both around him and inside his own head. I particularly enjoyed how he begins to understand his emotions—because who doesn’t want to be more in touch with their feelings?

Now, I have to admit, the first 20 to 30 pages were a bit grating, as Charlie’s progress report featured spelling that would make a kindergarten teacher weep. It was so frustrating that I almost tossed the book on the shelf for another day, but I persevered, and it gradually became incredibly addictive—like potato chips, but for your brain! I’ll stop there to avoid spoiling the best parts, so go buy the book and discover what happens to Charlie—trust me, it’s worth the read!

I would rate the book a solid 10/10 because it was just that good! It was so good that I found myself reading it at bedtime after work, and trust me, as a healthcare worker, you typically don’t have the energy to tackle a book after a grueling on-call shift. I even read the book on my way back to London from Seaford after a tiring hike at Seven Sisters—while standing, no less! (Stay tuned for a blog about that adventure!) Just look at how hard I’m trying to express how amazing this book is. If I could, I’d probably tattoo “Read this book!” on my forehead!

As usual, here are some of the quotes I gathered from the book. Well, they’re not exactly quotes, more like profound nuggets of wisdom shared by the author that made me ponder life’s mysteries—like why socks always disappear in the laundry!

How strange it is that people of honest feelings and sensibility, who would not take advantage of a man born without arms or legs or eyes – how such people think nothing of abusing a man born with low intelligence.

Charlie Gordon

Now I understand one of the important reasons for going to college and getting an education is to learn that the things you’ve believed all your life aren’t true, and that nothing is what it appears to be.

Charlie Gordon

‘Intelligence is one of the greatest human gifts. But all too often a search for knowledge drives out the search for love. This is something else I’ve discovered for myself recently. I present it to you as a hypothesis: Intelligence without the ability to give and receive affection lead to mental and moral breakdown, to neurosis, and possibly even psychosis -‘

Charlie Gordon

I particularly love the last one! Alright, folks, I hope you enjoyed my book review as much as I enjoyed writing it! Until next time, keep reading and keep smiling—see you in my next post!