Mary Shelley's Frankenstein is the foundational work of science fiction, following Victor Frankenstein's creation of life and the tragic consequences of his ambition. Through the intertwined narratives of creator and creature, Shelley explores themes of responsibility, isolation, and what it means to be human. The novel becomes a profound meditation on the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition and the moral obligations we owe to what we create.

WHY WE PICKED IT: Because Shelley understood that the real monster is often the one who abandons what he's made. Frankenstein remains urgent because it asks questions we still can't answer about creation, responsibility, and whether some knowledge is too dangerous to pursue.

DETAILS: • Author: Mary Shelley • Publisher: Penguin Classics • Format: Paperback • Publication Date: October 1, 2007 • ISBN: 9780143105039 • Ships direct from distributor in 3–7 business days