Operation
Why couldn’t Charlie write any progress reports for a few days?
He had a large bandage covering his eyes.
What does Charlie want to be able to do with Gimpy, Frank, and Joe Carp?
To talk and hang out with them.
Who started to help Charlie correct his spelling?
Hilda, the nurse at the hospital.
Why is Charlie becoming more and more frustrated over time?
He is tired of working towards becoming smarter and losing his patience with the overall process.
What did we finally learn about Frank?
His last name!
Why do you think the doctors strapped Charlie’s arms and legs down before surgery?
To prevent him from hurting and interfering with his surgery.
Why is Hilda no longer Charlie’s nurse?
The doctors were concerned that she would interfere and or influence Charlie's thought process and overall progress.
Why is Charlie upset when Ms. Kinnian said he has to work hard to get smart?
He is losing his patience and thought the surgery would immediately make him smart.
Who or what is paying Charlie for his time post-surgery?
The Welburg Foundation.
Who is Ernie and why is Mr. Donner training him at the bakery?
He is the young man filling in for Charlie while he recovers from surgery. He is staying at the bakery in order to learn how to be a manager/baker.
Who takes and records Charlie’s vital signs? (i.e. temperature and blood pressure)
Burt
Why does Lucille become embarrassed when talking to Charlie?
Charlie asked her how babies were made.
Why is Charlie struggling with the idea of beating Algernon?
Charlie doesn't feel smart still.
What did we learn about Mr. Donner and his relationship with Charlie?
Mr. Donner was very good friends with Charlie's Uncle Hermann and promised to always take good care of Charlie (i.e. providing hima job).
What book does Charlie start to read to help him increase his basic skills?
Robinson Crusoe
What do they want Charlie to focus on post-surgery?
Thinking and remembering information.
What does Charlie find out about Algernon?
He had the same operation as Charlie.
What did Ms. Kinnian teach Charlie?
How to read.
What is Charlie starting to learn about his friends?
They aren't really his friends at all because they make fun of him quite a bit.
What did we learn about Charlie’s family?
They struggled with his disability, as his sister use to make fun of him, which angered his father easily.
Why is everyone telling Charlie to be discreet about his operation? (Think: beyond legal aspect)
The doctors are concerned that if it doesn't work it will ruin their reputation.
Hilda has some very strong opinions about Charlie’s surgery, why? How does it impact Charlie?
She doesn't believe that anyone should be altering/changing his personality and or brain functions. As a result, Charlie questions whether the surgery was a good idea, as he feels like he has done something wrong and against god.
Why does Charlie enjoy the Beekman College, as opposed to the Warren Home?
He has an opportunity to learn and socialize with students.
Why was Charlie placed in therapy as he started to remember more?
Dr. Strauss was concerned that some memories may be difficult for him and cause saddness/depression.
What do you notice is improving in terms of Charlie's abilities?
Spelling and recalling information.