Unwieldy Creatures

Unwieldy Creatures by Addie Tsai, published by Jaded Ibis Press, LLC in 2022, is a 300-page exploration of identity and ambition. This work presents a biracial, queer, nonbinary retelling of Mary Shelley’s classic novel Frankenstein, focusing on the lives of three characters who navigate the complexities of existence from the margins of society. Plum, a queer biracial Chinese intern at a leading embryology lab, seeks to embrace her identity while grappling with personal challenges. Meanwhile, Dr. Frank, a queer biracial Indonesian scientist, pursues her ambitions at great personal cost, and her nonbinary creation faces abandonment due to unforeseen complications.

Readers will find a narrative that delves into themes of ambition, identity, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding scientific advancement. The intertwining stories of Plum and Dr. Frank raise questions about the sacrifices made in the pursuit of progress and the limits of personal ambition. This edition invites readers to reflect on the intersections of LGBTQ+ experiences and the complexities of familial and societal expectations, all while engaging with a literary homage to a classic tale.