A quick review today because I’ve been sick, and this is all I’ve had time for!

In The Glass Scientists by S. H. Cotugno, Dr. Henry Jekyll is a rogue scientist. The public calls them “mad,” but he knows they aren’t. They’re just like-minded eccentric innovators, who just need to improve their reputation, which is only mud because of that bad business involving Frankenstein a few years back. But then, Jekyll’s life starts to spiral out of control, not only because of his alter ego Hyde, but also because of the arrival of an unexpected figure he never imagined he’d encounter. Jekyll clings to his plans and his secrets, but he might not be able to hold on for long.

This is a fun story! I love the take on these classic sci-fi/horror characters as a teen graphic novel. It’s perfect for the Halloween season.

Jekyll is a fun main character, all perfectionism and posh swagger, but he’s also a little goofy and endearing. Hyde, on the other hand, is mischievous and wicked and kind of steals every scene he’s in. I loved the way the two interact, and how their relationship changes, over the course of the story.

The other characters like Jasper, Rachel, and the scientists are also great. It’s an engaging cast, and I wish I’d seen more of them (though since this is just volume one, I assume there will be more development with some of them in future installments).

The art style is also delightful. Victorian London feels sinister but vivid, full of life but also shadows. The characters’ movements and expressions are clear, and the action is easy to follow. Such a fun visual style!

In the end, The Glass Scientists is a charming story full of supernatural elements, mad science, darkness and humor. It’s a fun retelling of several stories, but also full of its own life. It was a quick read, but a very enjoyable one. I’ll keep an eye out for volume two in the future!