Apple Books Classics

Frankenstein

Mary Shelley

- 2.9 • 13 Ratings

Also available in the Book Store

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.

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