A review by lexarobinson
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

challenging dark tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

Confusing. I understand that it's a classic, but I never really felt a connection to this book. My rating is boosted by the interesting premise, but that is really as far as praise for Stevenson's work can go (aside from the judicious metaphors which got me full marks in my GCSE, thanks king). His writing style is pretty laboured, and he focuses too much on the scientific elements of Jekyll's transformation rather than the atrocities of Hyde. However, between the two characters, he does present moral ambiguity to an extent I am yet to see rivalled by anyone, so Stevenson deserves to be commended for that.
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