5 Books Like Frankenstein for Avid Readers

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a classic gothic horror novel, which has maintained enduring popularity since its publication in 1818. The story centers around Victor Frankenstein, an ambitious scientist who unearths the secret to creating life and assembles a grotesque being that ultimately leads to his destruction. For those who love this iconic tale, there are many more books that explore similar themes of ambition, social isolation, and the perils of scientific innovation. In this blog post, we will recommend five books that every fan of Frankenstein should check out.

1. Dracula by Bram Stoker

Published in 1897, Bram Stoker’s Dracula is another classic gothic horror novel that offers readers a thrilling taste of supernatural terror. Like Frankenstein, the story delves into the consequences of crossing ethical boundaries, as the titular character’s vampirism is revealed to be the result of dark and forbidden practices. The epistolary format of Dracula, written as a series of letters, journal entries, and newspaper articles, closely mirrors the narrative structure of Frankenstein. If you’re a fan of the gothic atmosphere, moral conundrums, and monster-driven plots of Mary Shelley’s masterpiece, Dracula is a must-read.

Read or listen to Dracula by Bram Stoker

2. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

Published in 1886, Robert Louis Stevenson’s The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde is a novella that, like Frankenstein, explores the darker side of human nature, unchecked ambition, and the consequences of scientific experimentation. In the story, Dr. Henry Jekyll develops a potion intended to isolate the evil aspects of his personality, but doing so brings forth the monstrous alter-ego, Mr. Edward Hyde. As the line between Jekyll and Hyde starts to blur, the story becomes a thrilling and suspenseful exploration of the duality of human nature and the danger of scientific hubris.

Read or listen to The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

3. The Island of Dr. Moreau by H.G. Wells

Published in 1896, H.G. Wells’ The Island of Dr. Moreau is a science fiction novel that deals with themes of vivisection and the consequences of playing God. The protagonist, Edward Prendick, is shipwrecked on a mysterious island, where he discovers that the infamous Dr. Moreau has been conducting gruesome experiments, transforming animals into human-like creatures. Much like Victor Frankenstein, Dr. Moreau’s relentless pursuit of his experiments leads to disastrous consequences, making this a fascinating read for fans of Shelley’s classic gothic tale.

Read or listen to The Island of Dr. Moreau by H.G. Wells

4. We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

Published in 1962, Shirley Jackson’s We Have Always Lived in the Castle is a chilling gothic mystery that, like Frankenstein, delves into themes of social isolation and the unraveling of one’s sanity. The story follows Merricat Blackwood, who lives a reclusive life with her sister Constance and their ailing uncle after the rest of their family perishes in a suspected poisoning. As the novel progresses, the secrets of the Blackwood family’s past begin to unravel, revealing the darkness that lies within their seemingly idyllic existence. Fans of Frankenstein will enjoy the eerie atmosphere, psychological horror, and carefully crafted characters in Jackson’s final novel.

Read or listen to We Have Always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson

5. Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind

Published in 1985, Patrick Süskind’s Perfume: The Story of a Murderer is a unique historical thriller that, like Frankenstein, centers around an isolated and deeply flawed protagonist, caught in a dangerous obsession. Set in 18th-century France, the story follows Jean-Baptiste Grenouille, who is born with a remarkable sense of smell but no scent of his own. As Grenouille becomes obsessed with capturing the most profound, elusive scent, he turns to murder to obtain it. Süskind’s twisted tale of ambition, desire, and the intricacies of human nature offers an engrossing experience for anyone who enjoys the dark and philosophical themes of Frankenstein.

Read or listen to Perfume: The Story of a Murderer by Patrick Süskind

Each of these five books offers a unique exploration of themes similar to those found in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Ambitious readers will find much to enjoy in the complex moral dilemmas, psychological tension, and eerie atmospheres of these recommended titles. So, whether you decide to delve into the world of vampirism, doppelgängers, mad scientists, twisted families, or killer perfumers, we hope you find new worlds to explore and enjoy!