On the bicentennial of Frankenstein, join Mary Shelley on the night she created the most frightening monster the world has ever seen.

On a stormy night two hundred years ago, a young woman sat in a dark house and dreamed of her life as a writer. She longed to follow the path her own mother, Mary Wollstonecraft, had started down, but young Mary Shelley had yet to be inspired. As the night wore on, Mary grew more anxious. The next day was the deadline that her friend, the poet Lord Byron, had set for writing the best ghost story. After much talk of science and the secrets of life, Mary had gone to bed exhausted and frustrated that nothing she could think of was scary enough. But as she drifted off to sleep, she dreamed of a man that was not a man. He was a monster.

This fascinating story gives readers insight into the tale behind one of the world’s most celebrated novels and the creation of an indelible figure that is recognizable to readers of all ages.

Mary Shelley’s journey began with a simple idea—an image of a monster brought to life. From that seed, she cultivated the iconic novel “Frankenstein.” Every great work starts with a small seed—an intriguing thought, a vivid image, or a fleeting emotion.

Parents, encourage your children to jot down these tiny seeds. They might not fully understand them at first, but over time, they can nurture and expand them into compelling stories. We should let them explore their thoughts, daydreams, and the tiniest sparks of inspiration. These seemingly insignificant ideas can blossom into something extraordinary. Even their own unique experiences and emotions can fuel their creativity.

Writing isn’t always easy. There will be moments of doubt, rejection, and frustration. But passion fuels perseverance!

Mary’s book was rejected by two publishers before a third one published it. Setbacks are just part of the journey toward greatness.

Even our youngest authors should be encouraged to share their ideas with peers, teachers, or family members. Feedback and encouragement can ignite their creativity! Writing need not be a solitary endeavor. Collaboration and discussions can spark new perspectives.

“Mary Made a Monster” celebrates resilience, imagination, and the transformative power of storytelling. It whispers to young writers: “Your ideas matter. Nurture them, write fearlessly, and someday, you might create your own literary masterpiece.” ????????✨