56 pages • 1 hour read
Poor Things
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Book Brief
318
Novel • Fiction
Glasgow, Scotland • Victorian Era
1992
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Poor Things by Alasdair Gray is a postmodernist retelling of Frankenstein, chronicling the story of Archibald McCandless, who becomes entwined with the eccentric scientist Godwin Baxter and a mysterious woman named Bella Baxter. McCandless discovers Godwin reanimated Bella using her fetus's brain after her suicide. A series of adventures and relationships evolve, ultimately questioning Victorian norms, scientific ethics, and personal identity. The novel involves themes including depression, sexual violence, and non-consensual medical procedures.
Mysterious
Bittersweet
Humorous
Dark
Reviews & Readership
34,555 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Alasdair Gray's Poor Things fascinates with its imaginative and unconventional narrative, praised for satirizing Victorian literature and intelligently tackling themes of identity and social critique. However, some critics argue the complexity and dense footnotes may alienate readers. The novel's intricate illustrations and unique structure are often highlighted as enriching the reading experience.
Who Should Read Poor Things?
Readers who enjoy Poor Things by Alasdair Gray are likely fans of darkly comedic, gothic literature with a satirical twist. They may also appreciate works like Mary Shelley's Frankenstein for its exploration of creation and identity, or Angela Carter's The Bloody Chamber for its subversive storytelling and rich, imaginative prose.
34,555 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Archibald McCandless
Archibald McCandless
A medical student and Bella/Victoria's husband, who narrates much of the story, providing an unreliable account shaped by his personal biases and ambitions.
Godwin Bysshe Baxter
Godwin Bysshe Baxter
A medical practitioner and mentor to Bella/Victoria, depicted variably as a creator figure and a supportive teacher who fosters independence.
Duncan Wedderburn
Duncan Wedderburn
A lawyer who elopes with Bella/Victoria, characterized by conflicting narratives of being a scoundrel and a more nuanced figure in Victorian society.
Victoria’s Father and Sir Aubrey de la Pole Blessington (General Blessington)
Victoria’s Father and Sir Aubrey de la Pole Blessington (General Blessington)
Victoria's father, Mr. Hattersley, is portrayed as controlling with traditional marital expectations, while her first husband, General Blessington, is shown with conflicting views on marriage and sexuality.
Alasdair Gray and Michael Donnelly
Alasdair Gray and Michael Donnelly
Within the story, Gray serves as both editor and character, introducing bias to the narrative, while Donnelly offers a counterpoint, urging a more analytical approach to the story's truth.
318
Novel • Fiction
Glasgow, Scotland • Victorian Era
1992
Adult
18+ years
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