Following Frankenstein

Following Frankenstein is an incredible read and one that holds your attention from the get go.

I loved that there is a true element and nod to Shelley's Frankenstein with the darkness and bleakness to Bruton's world. There is a fantastic blend of the two with Maggie's (our wonderful protagonist) father having seen Prometheus (I'm aware technically he isn't called this but for years; I have acknowledged Frankenstein's monster as this. Sorry, I just dont like calling him momster or creature constantly) wandering around London years before our story begins. I think this works so well to acknowledge Shelley's work and hopefully encourage young readers to search out this classic when they're able to.

This sighting has caused Maggie's father to become obsessed with finding the monster, and has thrust the two of them into destitution and yet? He doesn't stop nor truly see what his actions have caused his innocent daughter to endure. As an adult reader, I felt so much frustration at his actions and his inability to care fully for his daughter and I imagine that same feeling will carry across to children thanks to the creative world building that the author has gifted the reader. Bruton's words enable you to practically feel the dirt on your skin, and the hunger all the children suffer from thanks to the scenes that play out.

Maggie is far more the adult in their family than the father, and that is shown so much in how she cares and tries to protect her father from making poor decisions but alas; and to of course, begin our great adventure? Her father is deaf to all her fears, concerns and pleas for him to see the dire results of his actions.

Adventures on the high seas finds Maggie as a stowaway as she desperately tries one last time to save her fsther from abject ruin, alongside the ships Captain, Ishmael who swears to have seen Frankenstein's monster, and the ship's crew. Promises are made, but could it be too late for Maggie to salvage her family from what is close to insanity?

This is a story that whilst being for middle grade children, is thought provoking and deals with true historical events alongside those from fiction in a wonderfully blended manner that do cause one to think. With mentions of the slaves, the dire events of the slave trade itself and the Underground rail roads (Something I didn't know much about as it wasn't taught in school etc) that often led to salvation for those torn from their homeland? There is much to talk about and provide insight into a horrific time in our history.

Whilst there is some bleak moments in the book, there is also some wonderfully light moments filled with hope and happiness. Even though Maggie's life isn't what it was; she never loses hope of a better fortune and the restoration of her father to a better place in body and mind. Following Frankenstein is a reminder of acceptance both of yourself and of others who maybe different in both looks, beliefs and expectations. A story of found family and a strong hope in the goodness of others.

It's a read for all, and you will experience a myriad of emotions along the way.