Mary's Monster

by Lita Judge

[Berls]

This was a super quick read - I read it in one day, not just because book club was the next day, but because it was an easy, compelling read. It's not the sort of book I would typically pick up, but I was intrigued and since I had it for book club, I figured I would give it a shot.

It's an illustrated book, written in verse. I don't go for either - verse/poetry just isn't my thing - and when I think illustrated, I tend to think graphic novel. Well, this was not graphic novel like at all - the illustrations aren't used for dialogue, they are truly just a gorgeous backdrop that helps bring the verse alive. And the verse/poetry was not the kind that you have to dissect to get it. It really told the story, but in a more beautiful, artful way.

And what a story! I was not at all familiar with Mary Shelley's life and now I find it no wonder that she wrote one of the original Monster/Horror stories! She didn't have a real break in life from childhood on. The people who were supposed to protect her mistreated her, the person she gave everything too was abusive (and maybe bipolar?) and people she loved discarded, betrayed, and shunned her. She was surrounded by death and sadness and just... gah! Your heart just goes out to her.

I have never read Frankenstein, nor have I ever been interested in it. I don't do monsters or horror really, but after reading this I have my first potential interest. Not sure I'll act on it, but I'm at least curious for the first time ever.