Frankenstein
Written by: Mary Shelley
Narrated by: Dan Stevens
Length: 8 hours and 35 minutes
Unabridged Audiobook
Release Date: October 29, 2013
Publisher: Audible Studios
Over the years, there has been a massive collection of excellent books. Some of these have been able to keep the reader entertained. Others have grabbed at the reader’s heartstrings and forced them to experience the character’s emotions. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein would definitely fall within the latter category. This book has remained one of the most captivating, heartfelt and successful books of all time. It has been transformed into films, plays and even television dramas. Although it is arguable, a lot of book enthusiasts agree that the audiobook, which is narrated by Dan Stevens, is the most enjoyable way to experience the novel.
The Downton Abbey actor lends his chops to the project and the end result couldn’t be better. He helps to elevate the book’s drama and romance to a spectacular new level. What makes the audiobook so great? You will find out below!
The Narration
Anyone, who has an obsession with British television, will most likely have already familiarized themselves with Dan Stevens. This British actor is best known for his performance in the ultra successful Downton Abbey. He has also appeared in several big screen movies, including The Cobbler, A Walk Among the Tombstones and Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb. Although his resume should speak for itself, his narration of Frankenstein may very well be his best work to date! In fact, many listeners have praised his narration as one of the best audiobook performances ever.
So, what makes his performance so praise worthy? First and foremost, the audio quality is absolutely brilliant and Stevens takes full advantage of this. He hits all of the right notes at the right time and the listener will be able to join in on the action. He knows when to raise his voice, when to add a joyful spin and when to sound downtrodden. This helps to draw in the listener and forces them to feel the emotions within their very soul. If you’re able to get through the audiobook, without feeling a great deal of empathy for the creature, you should check your heartbeat.
Another accreditation that should be added is Dan’s ability to effortlessly transition from character to character. Captain Walton, Victor Frankenstein and the Creature all have their own unique accidents. Each is incredibly well done and unique enough to make it very easy for the listener to pick up on the changes. Stevens never loses his grip on any of the accents. He remains steady and on track throughout the eight and a half hour journey. This is an achievement in itself and one that deserves recognition.
Another excellent aspect of the audiobook is the pacing. Right from the very beginning, Dan Stevens manages to snag ahold of the listener and bring them into the 18th Century. Within a short matter of time, you’ll find yourself growing attached to Victor and his pitiful creature. When you hit this point, you will not be able to shut off the audio. You’ll find yourself longing to binge through the eight and a half hours, until you reach the dramatic conclusion.
If you’re interested in experiencing Frankenstein, there is no better way to do it than by allowing Dan Stevens to guide you through the journey. At eight and a half hours, the unabridged audiobook is right on the money.
The Book Is Genuinely Legendary
Victor Frankenstein is a character from the past, but his story continues to impress young readers of today. While many may see Frankenstein as a monster, others will visualize him as being an accomplished scientist hopeful. However, your mind portrays this character and his innovative experimental success you will be drawn into the audiobook, in a way that will make it difficult to find your way back to reality.
The author, Mary Wollstonecraft Shelley spent two years traveling and doing research for this novel. She was intrigued by the Frankenstein Castle, which rests on the Odenwald Mountain, in Germany. While there were rumors that an alchemist had performed many experimental researches with the castle walls, this legend was never proven.
Frankenstein has a gothic element, with a twinge of romance that is capable of drawing listeners into the imaginary plot. Victor accidentally bumps into Captain Robert Walton, who was an unsuccessful writer traveling about trying to find his fame. Victor was on an expedition, when he just happened to overexert himself and nearly froze to death, but thanks to Walton and his crew, he lived to tell his story.
Frankenstein was born into a very wealthy family, in Naples. He faces many challenges as a child, along with the death of his mother, but to only add grief to his life, he fell in love with Elizabeth Lavenza, an orphan adopted by his parents. He heads off to attend the University of Ingolstadt, where he later becomes very exceled in chemistry and science.
He was able to develop a special technique that involved imparting life to non-living matter, which is how he was ended up with his amazing creation, the Monster. Unlike his intentions of creating a human-like character that would be beautiful and exotic, he ended up with a grotesque creature.
Victor escapes his failures by running away, but to only be found by the Monster, who took it upon himself to plead his case, before the young student. He explained that his appearance was so appalling that individuals were afraid of him, so he demands for Victor to create in him a likeness, a beautiful female Creature. Without going any further, this book is definitely an experience that all will enjoy!
Overall Assessment
When it comes down to it, you would likely have a tremendously difficult time trying to find anyone, who dislikes the Frankenstein tale. The story is compelling and powerful. The characters are out of this world, yet realistic and sympathetic in their own unique ways. Getting through the book, movie or audiobook without feeling a bit of sadness would be nearly impossible. Although the novel and movies definitely drive home the point, Dan Stevens’ audiobook adaptation is one of the best, if not the very best, way to experience this classic tale.
At over eight hours, the listener will be able to enjoy Frankenstein for several days, before they reach the fulfilling conclusion. Suffice to say, they’ll enjoy every second of it! The novel translates perfectly into today’s society and Dan Stevens’ performance brings it to life. The combination makes the Frankenstein audiobook one of the best to date! Be sure to check it out today!
[schema type=”review” rev_name=”Frankenstein Audiobook (Review)” author=”Audiobook Jungle” pubdate=”2015-11-02″ user_review=”5″ min_review=”1″ max_review=”5″ ]