Mary Shelley's Frankenstein begins with a young scientist, Victor Frankenstein, who becomes obsessed with the idea of creating life. He succeeds, but is horrified by the being he brings into the world. He abandons his creation immediately. The creature, intelligent and sensitive, is left to fend for himself. He learns to speak and read by secretly observing a family, but every attempt to connect with humanity ends in terror and violence because of his terrifying appearance. Heartbroken and enraged by his creator's rejection, the creature seeks revenge, setting off a tragic chase that consumes both their lives.

Why You Should Read It

This book surprised me. I expected a simple horror story, but found a deep and sad exploration of responsibility. Victor isn't a hero; he's a flawed man who runs from his mistakes. The creature isn't mindless evil—he's lonely, asks profound questions about his existence, and just wants a friend. Shelley makes you feel for both of them. The core question isn't 'Can we create life?' but 'What do we owe the life we create?' It's about the damage caused by neglect and the universal need to belong.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves a story that makes you think. If you enjoy gothic atmosphere, complex characters, and big questions about science and morality, this is your classic. It's also a great pick for book clubs—there's so much to talk about! Don't be intimidated by its age; the emotions feel incredibly modern. Just be prepared for a tragic, thought-provoking ride.