Yes, I just now, at the age of 37, just read Flowers of Algernon for the first time. I had dismissed it for so long, assuming it was a tear-jerker like Of Mice and Men. Having two special needs sons, I was honestly afraid of reading it. Luckily, as I read it, I saw very little parallels with Charlie and either of my boys. What I found instead was an interesting psychological exploration, some of which was a bit stereotypical and dated, but a great story nonetheless. Even knowing what would happen in the end, I still felt surprised and teary. This book is a must read for everyone.