Vault of Frankenstein by Paul Ruditis

Vault of Frankenstein by Paul Ruditis takes the reader from the earliest, mere inkling of the iconic Frankenstein, when it was but an idea in Shelley’s mind, through to the enduring legacy still vibrantly alive today. This is the charting of a legend, the mark of an outstanding story. Centuries on, the book and characters continue to inspire new adaptations, in all manner of media, showing how our interpretations change via the lens of culture and social values. My favourite has to be National Theatre’s Frankenstein play starring Jonny Lee Miller and Benedict Cumberbatch, who took it in turns to play both Victor and his Creature. That version focused on the Creature’s story, what it means to be abandoned as a child. I don’t recall seeing it mentioned in this book though, which was a bit of a disappointment. This book is a great treasure for any who love Shelley’s original book, the myriad adaptations, or are a classic horror buff in general. I enjoyed the digital ARC enough that I’ve ordered a hard copy!

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Quarto Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

 

The Atlas of Disease by Sandra Hempel

Hempel’s Atlas of Disease looks at our history with contagion, focusing on some of the worst illnesses humanity has faced thus far. There are four sections, divided by transmission type- airborne, waterborne, insects/animals, and human to human. At once terrifying and fascinating, this book will introduce the reader to some of the deadliest diseases, from typhoid, to bubonic plague, to ebola. Maps accompany, charting pandemics and epidemics the likes of which have shaped our history. We see how diseases and treatments have varied through history, and changed over time, as more evidence comes to light. Great for those interested in epidemiology, and disease through history.

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Quarto Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

 

History’s Greatest Villains: Dracula by Bernard Swysen & Julien Solé

History’s Greatest Villains: Dracula by Bernard Swysen & Julien Solé presents the life and times of Vlad Dracul- the Dragon, the Impaler- in a graphic novel format. I had such high hopes for this graphic novel! Sadly I was to be disappointed. I thought the concept was neat, and plenty of research seems to have gone into the work. However, the artistic style chosen was more cartoonish, and lacked the grittiness I would have expected (as in 300 or Sin City). Not only that, but the attempts at humour throughout was crude and ill-conceived given the topic at hand. Vlad Dracul is a fascinating figure from history, but he was a harsh man in a harsh world. He accomplished great things, and committed grave atrocities. There’s nothing humourous there, not even of the gallows kind.

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Europe Comics for providing an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.

 

Native Americans State-by-State by Rick Sapp

From Alabama to Washington, and throughout Canada, Sapp’s Native Americans State-by-State looks at the native peoples associated with each region. Each state/province has its own entry, with maps and a timeline. Native groups are considered through time, from pre-Columbian to the present today, and taking into account willing and forced migration of tribe. With accompanying artwork, and photos that illustrate the wide variety of cultural differences, readers will learn about the 400+ native tribes that we are aware of, hopefully prompting greater cultural awareness and interest.

This book is titled North American Indian Tribes State-by-State within the text of my book file, and I find that a much more professional and respectful title than Native Americans State-by-State. Other than that, this was a great read! It was fascinating to the anthropologist in me. The writing may be too weighty at times for some. Still, if you have an interest in Native American cultures and history, this is well worth adding to your library!

***Many thanks to Netgalley and Quarto Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.