The Monster Men

Published in 1913, Edgar Rice Burroughs's science fiction novel, "The Monster Men," follows Professor Arthur Maxon, who establishes a secluded laboratory on a remote East Indies island. There, he embarks on controversial experiments to create artificial human life. As his obsession with perfecting his creations, especially the enigmatic 'Number Thirteen,' intensifies, external threats emerge. Pirates, opportunistic treasure hunters, and even his own assistant endanger his daughter, Virginia. Her only hope for survival against these conspiring dark forces may lie with Number Thirteen, a seemingly soulless yet handsome being, in this adventure reminiscent of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein.

Reading ease score: 73.7 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.