Frankenstein: The Graphic Novel by Mary Shelley

Bibliographic Information

Shelley, Mary. (2009). Frankenstein: The Graphic Novel. Litchborough: Classical Comics.  

Descriptive Summary

In this graphic re-telling of Mary Shelley’s classic 19th century Frankenstein, the story unfolds as Dr. Victor Frankenstein shares stories of his experiments with a wondering traveler. His experiments involve trying to insert human life back into a corpse. While successful, Frankenstein inadvertently creates a monster. The process by which this is achieved is left ambiguous and in the end the ordeal has put such a strain of the doctor that he retires and moves to the mountains.

Through this monstrous tale, Mary Shelley was able to explore real-world issues that extend far beyond the 19th century, such as acceptance, tolerance, and understanding, as well as the ever-human desire for love.

Evaluative Comments

The graphic novel version of this classic story was an enjoyable way in which to get to know the original story, having never read it previous. All original text from Mary Shelley’s version was included here, preserving the original intent of the story. However, the graphic illustrations added here only further embellished the story. They were clear, exhilarating, and added an additional layer of suspense to the story as the reader was assisted in picturing Dr. Frankenstein’s work.

I would give this book a 10/10, for preserving the story’s original content and using imagery to only further embellish it, rather than change it.

Suggested Audience

Ages 9 and up.

Readers’ Advisory Notes

supernatural, science fiction, horror, graphic novel 

If you enjoyed this book, try The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and Other Tales of Terror by Robert Louis Stevenson.

Booktalking Hook

The graphics in this novel are amazing and the text so true to that of the original that together this version it is even better than the original. Plus, this investigation of the supernatural realm is spooky and fun with hints to real-world ties. This book has it all!  

Reason for Inclusion

This book has been praised in readers' reviews for its conservation of Shelley’s original text. It is also often said that this version is even better than the original. 

Category

Graphic Novel