FLOWERS FOR ALGERNON By Daniel Keyes

Published : 1966
Pages : 216
Overall Mark : 9/10

A mentally retarded man named Charlie Gordon takes part in a radical experiment to increase the intelligence of human beings. At first things go well but when Algernon, the original mouse that marked the success of the experiment, begins to exhibit strange symptoms and eventually dies, Charlie realises that his intelligence may be short lived.

The idea of this book being written as a journal - gradually making the voice of Charlie Gordon increase in intelligence - is a fantastic idea and, as you reach the conclusion it becomes a very touching and upsetting tale of a man who couldn't fit in no matter if he were intelligent or simple because people couldn't accept him when he tried to improve himself.

DUMA KEY By Stephen King

Published : 2007
Pages : 689
Overall Mark : 9/10

Following an accident that leaves him with partial brain damage, Edgar Freemantle moves to the remote island of Duma Key to try and recover, but once there he's there he starts to hear strange whispered voices which inspire him to take up painting, a skill he never knew he had, and he begins to create the most extraordinary paintings, some of which have a drastic effect on reality. What he then discovers about the island's history leaves him in a terrified state which could mean the deaths of those he holds most dear.

This is one of Stephen King's best books in a long time. The characters are vivid and real, the pacing is dramatic, and the inevitable beast at the end doesn't feel as disappointing as they often can with King. Clearly he has lost none of his skills, and this book is a must for any fan, as well as anyone who's never so much as picked up one of his books.