Frankenstein

by Mary Shelley
Frankenstein cover
Good Books rating 3.75
Gothic
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Paperback • £3.00–£14.99 Hardback • £7.99–£21.99 Board book • £7.99
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Format • £2.84–£18.04
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Technical
  • ID: 1905
  • Added: 2025-10-11
  • Updated: 2025-11-29
  • ISBN: 9780743487580
  • Publisher: Simon and Schuster
  • Published: 2004-05-01
  • Formats: 233
  • Reviews: 4

Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is a seminal work of Gothic literature that delves into the dark recesses of the human psyche. The novel is not just a story of a monster brought to life but a profound exploration of themes such as the responsibilities of creators, the nature of humanity, and the isolation that comes with being an outcast. It challenges readers to consider the moral and ethical implications of scientific advancement and the potential consequences of playing god. /n/n The novel is also notable for its intricate narrative structure, blending elements of epistolary, Gothic, and science fiction genres. It includes detailed explanatory notes and an overview of key themes, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the text. Frankenstein's enduring legacy lies in its ability to provoke thought and spark debate, making it a timeless classic.

Reviews
Novel On My Mind · 2025-06-30
loved 5.00

The reviewer loved the strong moral of the story and found the consequences brutal. They enjoyed it even more on a second read.

The reviewer was deeply moved by the strong and resonant moral of the story, finding the consequences particularly brutal and impactful. They mentioned that reading it a second time made the experience even more enjoyable, highlighting the depth and richness of the narrative. The reviewer appreciated the timeless themes and the emotional weight of the story.

Quick quotes

    I loved how strong and resonant the moral of the story was.

    The consequences were brutal.

    And on the second read, it was so much easier to appreciate the depth and richness of the narrative.

We Need to Talk About Books · 2024-03-26
brilliant 4.50

The book is a timeless tale of ambition, rejection, and the perils of creation. It challenges readers with its Gothic themes.

The reviewer praised 'Frankenstein' as a timeless tale that explores themes of ambition, rejection, and the dangers of creation. They highlighted the book's Gothic elements and its ability to challenge readers' perspectives. The reviewer appreciated the depth of the story and its enduring relevance, making it a significant and thought-provoking read.

Quick quotes

    Frankenstein: a timeless tale of ambition, rejection, and the perils of creation

    Mary Shelley's Gothic masterpiece challenges our understanding

    The novel's themes are as relevant today as they were when written

Joy V Spicer · 2023-01-10
thought-provoking 3.50

The reviewer finds it interesting that Frankenstein is often considered a horror story, noting that the only horror element is the presence of a monster.

The reviewer points out that Frankenstein is often misclassified as a horror story, arguing that the only horror element is the presence of a monster. They suggest that the story is more about the complexities of human nature and the consequences of ambition. The reviewer appreciates the nuanced exploration of these themes, making the story more thought-provoking than frightening.

Quick quotes

    It's interesting that 'Frankenstein' is thought of as a horror story when the only horror-box it ticks is the presence of a monster.

Jeroen's Thoughts · 2021-11-08
harrowing 2.00

The book is slow and depressing, filled with anguish. The reviewer wasn't always thrilled by the reading experience.

The reviewer found 'Frankenstein' to be a slow and ponderous work, filled with themes of anguish and depression. They mentioned that the book's heavy tone made it a challenging read at times. Despite this, they acknowledged the depth of the story and its impactful themes, even if it wasn't always an enjoyable experience.

Quick quotes

    Frankenstein is a slow and ponderous work

    Full of anguish and depression (my goodness, is it depressing!)

    I wasn't always thrilled reading it

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