THE GLASS SCIENTISTS

Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde must work together to save the Society of Arcane Sciences.

When a monster is cornered by an angry mob in the East End of London, Dr. Jekyll comes to help—thanks to information from his so-called associate, Mr. Hyde. Jekyll’s substantial reputation and membership in the Society for Arcane Sciences, where rogue scientists can freely practice their art, offers him that freedom. With the society’s Grand Exhibition only two weeks away, Jekyll must keep up appearances so he can lure in new financial backers and stay afloat. Hyde, however, does his best to lead Jekyll into mayhem at every turn. But when Dr. Frankenstein herself shows up with her creature in tow and in need of help, they lead diabolical Dr. Moreau right to them. Hyde and the society take Moreau on, leaving destruction in their wake. With Hyde a wanted man and the exhibition drawing closer, will Jekyll be able to keep the society safe and Hyde in check? This imaginative, beautifully illustrated work ironically struggles with its own identity—its multitude of plot lines and characters—even as it explores themes of identity, imposter syndrome, and living authentically in a world that doesn’t want you to. The main character is light-skinned; there is some diversity in skin tone among the supporting cast.

Makes interesting narrative promises but requires waiting for the sequel to see if they will come to fruition.