Frankenstein
-
-
3.5 • 193 Ratings
-
Publisher Description
The classic tale of men and their monsters is narrated by the host of the spooky Lore podcast.
First published in 1818, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is frequently credited as the first-ever science fiction novel. Her supernatural thriller—about a brilliant scientist who attempts to create a life and ends up destroying countless others—has become a cultural touchstone, sparking 200 years of conversations about human hubris and the unintended consequences of scientific experimentation.
This Apple Books exclusive features Aaron Mahnke reading Shelley’s astonishing tale of men and their monsters. Mahnke—host and creator of the hit podcast Lore (which has been adapted into books and a TV show)—knows a thing or two about scary stories. He’s the perfect narrator for this spooky, unexpectedly heartbreaking classic.
APPLE BOOKS REVIEW
Few novels can be credited with launching entire genres. Written in 1818, Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a gothic tale whose influences are felt in countless works of fantasy, horror and science fiction. Hypnotic and suspenseful, the book slowly unfolds the story of Victor Frankenstein, a ferociously intelligent man whose scientific experiments lead to violent tragedy. Though you’re probably familiar with the basic plot—manmade monster rises up to destroy its creator—it’s fascinating to make connections to the scary stories that came in its wake. Equally compelling is the notion that Shelley found inspiration in her own life; the author’s “creator,” pioneering feminist Mary Wollstonecraft, died giving birth to Shelley, her second daughter.
Customer Reviews
Great Narrative, Flat Narration.
A wildly entertaining and thought-provoking tale that meditates on ambition, science, and humanity. If you haven’t already read (or listened) to this well-proven classic, do yourself a favour. You won’t be disappointed.
That being said, you might be disappointed in this version (especially for re-reads). The narrator does a solid job of capturing the dark melancholy and grandiosity of the world. However, the narrator does not give the characters personality through their voice, making the characters feel flat and indistinguishable. This is a critical miss, given there are long — and important — strings of dialogue in the book. This makes a great tale a chore to listen to.
This version is tough to recommend, especially for newcomers. If you are financially able, I would strongly recommend investing in the written version (there is a free Apple Books Classics eBook), or at least a higher quality audiobook. Otherwise, you’re at least getting a great story for free.
Women narrator needed
You are defeating the purpose of recognising Mary Shelley’s influence in literature and critical thinking. Why are you still supporting discrimination? You are choosing male narrators even when a woman is the author. Apple is supporting men being the default choice and given the highest opportunities when women have to work more than men to get recognition for their talent.
Painful narrator
Couldn’t get past chapter 3. The narrator is the most painfully boring and monotone speaker. Jesus Christ get a personality.