Many of you have probably heard of “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” on television or movie theatres. What many of you might not know is that the movie is based on a short story of the same title by F. Scott Fitzgerald, who is famous for his greatest novel, The Great Gatsby. Although “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” was written in the 1920s, it is evident that it has captured so many audiences with its simple, yet poignant plot.

The book opens with Mr. Button arriving at the hospital. He is excited that his wife has given birth to a child and is eager to know its gender. However, when he introduces himself as Mr. Button to Dr. Keene and several nurses, their reactions are outrageously unprofessional. This shocks Mr. Button. Demanding to see his child, one nurse finally complies. What he sees shocks him: an old grown man, whose legs are dangling out of a crib, is claiming to be his son. After this discovery, Mr. Button attempts to ignore the issue and acknowledges Benjamin as an infant instead of an intelligent old man. From there, Benjamin begins an absurd life, in which he becomes physically and mentally younger the longer he lives.

At first, I thought the short story was going to be about romance. After reading it, I realize “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” is more than just about love; it’s something very profound. The story touched me so much that I kept thinking about it even after I finished it.

As well, what I love about the novel are the original ways that Fitzgerald describes a situation. As an avid reader, I think it’s just fascinating how many different ways a person can paint a picture of something simple with words.

Don’t worry everyone; this short story is only 60 PAGES; it can be read in about an hour! Within those pages, there is an extraordinary story that should be shared with everyone. I hope that the movie delivers the essence of the book; it is now regarded as one of my favorite works of literature.