Thursday, October 20, 2016

The BBRBF Book Club: Frankenstein by Mary Shelley


The BBRBF Book Club is getting spooky this month as we read the classic, "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley! Make sure you keep an eye on the other club members' blogs to see their thoughts and inspired outfit: Helene at Circle Skirts and Petticoats, Kat at The Miss Information Blog, Kristina at Eyre Effect, and Noelle at The Classy Junk.



I was nervous to read "Frankenstein." Mostly because, even though I majored in English in college, I dislike most classic literature. I don't read to think hard about stuff - I read for enjoyment. These classic novels and their old language? No thanks. I usually just feel dumb when I read them and get frustrated. So going in, I wasn't sure how I'd do with "Frankenstein." I have to say I enjoyed it a little more than I expected but it certainly took effort to read - I did struggle with following the narration and kept wondering if I missed something along the way (and I am sure I did!).


This may have to do with missing something (I told ya I would!) but I hated how little detail was included about the monster's creation. The story seemed to jump backstory about his childhood and school to "I created a monster!" real quick and left me going, "wait - huh?" Where's the in-between? I mean, we know the story and know Frankenstein creates a monster but can I get some detail on how and the process and where you got these body parts, etc? It was just so random.


I kept thinking that perhaps it would come later as he even hints in his narration that he won't giveaway his secrets but like, monsters don't just appear. I wanna know the FULL story, bro!

If we were going classic horror, you know I had to pull some classic Damsel in Distress poses

Then, as if I wasn't confused enough, the monster is just off on his own (NBD), gone and missing from Frankenstein's life. Every so often, Frankenstein sees his monster and just keeps running away or hiding. What the F? Frankenstein is pretty much a total wimp.


I had to laugh when, finally, his monster comes toward him one day and Frankenstein didn't wuss out and actually faces him. Why did I laugh? BECAUSE THE MONSTER JUST STARTS TELLING A STORY - totes normal, guys.


After he shares a story for, I swear, over 10 pages (hard to tell on a Kindle, but you know, fair guesstimate) we finally learn that he spent a lot of time (I'm talking over a year...) spying on a family living in a cottage in the woods and he learned English and how to live, essentially, by watching their every move. Hmm...


So that's that. I can't. I just can't. While I appreciated the throwback read to celebrate Halloween, I just confirmed what I sort of already knew - classic novels and I just don't mix.


For my "Frankenstein" outfit, I totally ditched any possible book cover available out there and decided to have fun instead. I decided to rock the traditional (albeit cartoon-ish) Frankenstein colors of purple and green. I even considered face makeup and finding me a bride of Frankenstein wig for this but you gotta draw the line someplace, I guess.


Also, I got way more excited than I ever should to wear two different shoes at once. I mean, look at how cool these BAIT Footwear Robbie heels look together! So sparkle! Much color! It's the little things, okay?  Also - side note - does anyone else talk like a meme in their everyday life? Cody and I have been recently and while it's hilarious (we know call all dogs "doggo" or "pupper"), it also makes me question our maturity levels.


If you want to join the BBRBF Book Club, let me know! Or simply follow along and read on your own - November's book is "Not Working" by Lisa Owens. We'd love to see what you come up with!


I also want to switch topics for a moment to ask a favor - some of you may know Jessica of Chronically Vintage. She is such a lovely gal who loves vintage and is always leaving such thoughtful comments on my blog as well as others. Last week, she and her husband lost everything in a devastating fire. They saved their dog but could not save their kitty and all their clothes, belongings, and furniture has been lost. Please consider donating here, if you can!