4.5/5

Incredible read. I have a lot of thoughts about this, particularly from a modern disability studies perspective. But this was such an engaging and easy read - not normally the experience I have with classics.

Given this was written in the mid-1960s it’s hard to believe how contemporary some of its disability politics feel - like how critical it is of society and ableism/disablism, and how an intellectually disabled character’s voice is given primary focus. I wonder to what extent it slips into problematic territory- pitying Charlie as a disabled person, rending those with intellectual impairments as pure/innocent, or framing impairment itself a tragedy. But I think those readings as somewhat unfair and come from a place of assuming poor intentions on the author’s part.

I also love the framing device and lack of traditional chapters. I did not expect that, which made the experience all the more enjoyable. I also loved the rough arc the book’s structure made by the end. Really great stuff.