Frankenstein

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6These series titles reveal the original story lines in simple, succinct language on the 18 even-numbered pages. Annotations, asides, and full-color photographs and illustrations appear on odd-numbered pages. Parker begins with a ``letter'' from Victor Frankenstein to readers to establish the fact that he, and not the monster, is named ``Frankenstein,'' and includes legends and scientific knowledge of Mary Shelley's time that may have influenced elements incorporated into her tale. Sidebars also discuss modern medical science in the areas of bionics and robotics. In Dracula, supplemental material includes the exploits of the real Dracula (Vlad the Impaler), and of the ``real-life female vampire'' Elizabeth Bathory, who bathed in the blood of her victims in order to make her skin more beautiful. Bloodsucking insects and animals; legendary vampires from Europe, Malaysia, and Japan; and true facts about the habits of bats; plus mention of some of famous movie vampires through 1992 provide macabre entertainment if not insight into Bram Stoker's mind. Both titles end with a one-page glossary of terms and a one-page index, but there are no bibliographies or filmographies. Engaging introductions to these classics of horror literature.Ann G. Brouse, Steele Memorial Library, Elmira, NY