Frankenstein, Or The Modern Prometheus (1818)

Victor Frankenstein is a scientist and a philosopher who decides to craft a creature like a man. He collects parts from butchers and dissecting labs to patch together a living being that later learns to speak, have intelligent thought and emotions.

The Gothic novel has many dark themes, but never ventures into fantasy or magic. Considered one of the first science-fiction books, Frankenstein explores the ethical implications of genetic engineering (far before its time) and what it means to connect with people in psychological and emotional ways. The book also touches on loneliness, identity and what it means to be human.