3.75 stars!

Truly a classic, and it was nice to revisit it. However- this newly published version with annotations by Leslie S. Klinger changes the game. The annotations are so detailed and gave me a whole new perspective on RLS's influential work. This version also includes multiple sections of the book that were either edited out or completely rewritten! For those who are fans of this quintessential story, I highly recommend checking out this deeply detailed annotated version.

Thanks to Netgalley and Penzler for this ARC in exchange for a review.

Because this story relies so much on the element of surprise (much more than, say, Dracula or Frankenstein), it seems to have suffered in the estimation of modern readers. I doubt anyone reads this these days without knowing the “big reveal” of the story ahead of time, which is a shame.

That said, I think an annotated version is exactly the shot in the arm that this story needed to freshen it up and attract readers who might be interested but were put off by knowing how it ends.

While I’m not sure that annotating Stevenson has the same value as annotating Stoker, I felt it buoyed a story that needs a boost and allows us to read a bit deeper into the nuance of the text.

I’ll caution that I do think the symbolism and deeper meaning derived from this book has been over-valued and much of it feels like a reach for an author who mostly sought to write quality adventure stories. I was pleased with the authors who annotated in this version and their restraint in not trying to argue (as past editors and critics have) that it isn’t truly about good vs evil and the duality of man.

Love the story, it’s a classic for a reason. Enjoyed reading this again during spooky season and the illustrations were great! The format ended up not working on my device so that took away from some of my reading experience but not going to knock it for that!

Leslie S. Klinger does a superb job of annotating this gorgeously-written enduring classic, one I had not read since early adulthood. His analyses are thought provoking with great depth and breadth such as the doctor's drug experimentation and addiction, Victorian ideals, shock value of Stevenson's own brand of horror and the psychology of good vs. evil wrapped up in the same person. How can a man become a monster in one moment and the next buy flowers for his sweetheart? So many questions are asked and answered, yet left open to the reader's interpretation along with a little knowledge nudging.

The enticing photographs really make Klinger's observations to scream out in the best way possible. How interesting to learn about different versions such as plays, cartoons/comics and film! I also like that historical information on Deacon Brodie, Stevenson's inspiration, is explained.

Those who have read this ingenious book ought to read this edition. And those who have not, what are you waiting for?

My sincere thank you to Penzler Publishers and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this super edition!

This is a tale of good and evil and the story if how one man decides which to accept. Do you choose which life style you want, or does your basic instinct take over and decide for you . This book leaves the reader with a lot of questions about the nature of human behavior.

Just in time for Halloween, here is a spectacular edition of the classic Stevenson story. It is a perfect way to read a scholarly edition of this classic.

The book begins with an introduction by Joe Hill who himself knows a bit about writing horror stories. Next comes an excellent and detailed forward. This section is very well documented and is filled with illustrations, including many photographs, movie posters, news articles and more.

This book that follows may be read by the general reader. It will, perhaps, be most welcomed by academics however. There are numerous notes and, again, a number of illustrations.

This is one of those stories that everyone has heard of but not everyone has read. Here is your chance.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Mysterious Press. All opinions are my own.

A good resource for students and those looking to understand the history and context of the novel. The layout of the book is appealing and the annotations informative. A good choice for school libraries and public libraries.