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Synopsis
*Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus* is an 1818 novel written by English author Mary Shelley. Frankenstein tells the story of Victor Frankenstein, a young scientist who creates a sapient creature in an unorthodox scientific experiment. Shelley started writing the story when she was 18, and the first edition was published anonymously in London on 1 January 1818, when she was 20. Her name first appeared in the second edition, which was published in Paris in 1821.
Is Frankenstein, or The Modern Prometheus appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 14 and up.
Classic Gothic novel exploring the consequences of scientific ambition. Contains themes of death, abandonment, revenge, and violence including murder, but without graphic descriptions. Philosophically complex and emotionally heavy.
What to know going in
This book has moderate violence, no sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include murder, death, and grief (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens interested in classic literature will engage with this story about a scientist who creates life and faces devastating consequences.