The Story

Victor Frankenstein, a brilliant and obsessed student, discovers the secret to creating life. In a fever of ambition, he builds a man from stolen body parts and brings it to life. The moment he sees his creation move, he is filled with horror and disgust. He runs away, leaving the Creature alone in the world.

Abandoned and shunned by everyone he meets because of his frightening appearance, the Creature teaches himself to read and think. He is intelligent and sensitive, but his loneliness turns to bitter rage. He tracks down Victor and makes a simple, devastating demand: create a companion for me, or I will destroy everything you love. This sets off a tragic game of pursuit and revenge that spans continents.

Why You Should Read It

This book shocked me. It's so much more than a spooky Halloween story. Shelley makes you feel for both Victor and his Creature. You understand Victor's blinding ambition and his guilt. And you absolutely ache for the Creature, who just wanted a friend but was rejected at every turn. It asks huge questions that still matter: What happens when science runs ahead of ethics? Who is responsible for a life they create? What makes someone a monster—their looks or their actions?

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves a story that makes you think long after you've finished the last page. If you enjoy gothic atmosphere, complex characters, and big ideas about creation and responsibility, this is your classic. Don't let its age fool you—it feels incredibly modern. Just be prepared: it's a heartbreaking, beautiful, and deeply unsettling ride.