My Dear Henry: A Jekyll & Hyde Remix

 In this re-telling of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde,” Gabriel Utterson enters the London School for Medical Studies at his father’s insistence. There isn’t much hope of securing a position upon graduation, but Gabriel is a dutiful son. Soon after arriving in London, Gabriel meets Henry Jekyll, another dutiful son. The two become friends, and then something more. Rumors about their relationship lead to Henry’s expulsion and Gabriel’s forced resignation. The two correspond, but then Henry becomes distant and, for a time, he seems to disappear. Gabriel wants to know the truth and will do anything in his power to find Henry.

“My Dear Henry” is a quick read filled with late Victorian London/steampunk atmosphere (think dark nights, dark alleys, and plenty of fog). Racism and homophobia are discussed thoughtfully, but make clear the untenable situations the characters (and real people of the time) found themselves in. Gabriel, Henry, and their friends are earnest and likable, even when they encounter monsters.

 

The publisher suggests content warnings, particularly around “racism and homophobia in the context of the late nineteenth century, sexual assault, and suggested conversion therapy.” I would agree that these elements may be of concern to sensitive individuals. 

 

“My Dear Henry” is one in a series of remixed classics for the YA market. I would recommend this book for teens who like atmospheric stories and those who enjoy tales of Victorian London. It would be interesting to pair this re-telling of “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” with the original in the classroom. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #Feiwel&Friends (Macmillan Children’s Publishing Group) for a copy for review consideration. All opinions are my own.