When it comes to asking the hard questions at the heart of scientific investigation, perhaps no book has ever topped Frankenstein.

The classic novel, which turned 200 in 2018, is the heart of One State / One Story, an ambitious statewide read offered in partnership with the Indiana State Library.

The book's subject matter maps closely to recent innovations in science like artificial intelligence, stem cell research, etc., and the questions that they raise. We think it's the perfect jumping-off point for Hoosiers to explore the larger themes of Quantum Leap, and have a little fun, too. Join us as we bring Frankenstein to life in 2017 and 2018 through a variety of activities for the whole family.

Highlights of One State / One Story: Frankenstein included:

Why Frankenstein ?

There are few works of classic literature that speak so directly to our contemporary world as Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein. Begun in 1816 and published in 1818, the book raises big questions about science and its role in society. Join us as we use the text to answer questions about how we decipher what's right and wrong, how we understand ourselves in relation to the world around us, and how we live in the world—questions that are as important today as they were in Mary Shelley's time. 

One State / One Story: Frankenstein is an Indiana Humanities program and has been made possible in part by a major grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities and in partnership with the Indiana State Library and Indiana Center for the Book. Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of the National Endowment for the Humanities.