cover image Frankenstein: A Pop-Up Book

Frankenstein: A Pop-Up Book

Sam Ita, Sterling Innovation, $29.99 (16p) ISBN 978-1-4027-5865-2

Ita reimagines Shelley's classic as a graphic novel that pairs fragments of the original text with cartoon images, comic book conventions (like speech bubbles), and pop-ups and other interactive elements. Victor Frankenstein resembles more a shabby office employee than a 19th-century scientist; he sometimes speaks in contemporary dialogue ("I can't wait for this experiment to be over. I need a vacation"), which sits oddly beside more formal lines. Pull-tab effects and pop-ups highlight key moments: horror dawns on Frankenstein's face as he beholds his creation; the oafish monster looms over his child victim, William; and Frankenstein sets fire to the female body parts he's collected. An unusual and intriguing homage. Ages 12–up. (Sept.) Four picture books examine the food we eat and where it comes from.