Dr. Frankenstein’s Daughters by Suzanne Weyn - OPTIONAL

Weyn, Suzanne Dr. Frankenstein’s Daughters, 247 pgs. Scholastic Press, 2013. $17.99. Language: PG; Mature Content: PG; Violence: PG-13

Dr. Frankenstein abandoned his twin daughters at birth in an effort to protect them from the horror that he created. In their seventeenth year the girls, Ingrid and Giselle, are made aware of the legacy that their father has left them and eagerly move into Frankenstein’s castle on a remote island off the coast of Scotland. Things begin to dramatically change as first love and sinister happenings begin to affect their lives. Someone or something dangerous is present on the island and the question is whether or not Frankenstein’s monster will finally be able to enact his final revenge.

This book is an enjoyable take on an old tale. The plot is simple and engaging, but does become increasingly dark as the story progresses. The book would have been more successful if a more consistent tone had been used. The shift from a story of young girls coming of age with romance and adventure to one of murder, mayhem, and revenge is a bit harsh. This is especially evident when Ingrid’s demeanor changes rather abruptly from a young inquisitive teenager to a coldly analytical scientist whose actions are quite disturbing. 

MS,HS—OPTIONAL, AEB Social Studies Teacher