Daniel Keyes was an American author best known for his novel Flowers for Algernon, published in 1966. The story follows a man named Charlie Gordon, who undergoes an experimental surgery to increase his intelligence. The novel explores themes of human intelligence, emotion, and the ethical implications of scientific advancements. Keyes was born on August 9, 1927, in Brooklyn, New York. Before becoming a full-time writer, he worked as a teacher and a magazine editor. His writing often focused on psychological and philosophical themes, earning him critical acclaim and a devoted readership throughout his career. Keyes passed away on June 15, 2019.