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Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde & Other Stories
“Man is not truly one, but truly two,” —Robert Louis Stevenson, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
A book so iconic that its title is synonymous with split personalities, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, was first released in 1886. The story of a virtuous Dr. Jekyll who mistakenly creates an alter ego of unadulterated evil serves as an examination of the duality of human nature and the battle between good and evil.
Full of mystery and fright, this story has remained popular for more than a century and has been adapted countless times—over 132 in film alone. An instant success and popular with students of morality, this thrilling tale is now available as part of the Word Cloud Classics series, making it a chic and affordable addition to every library.
A book so iconic that its title is synonymous with split personalities, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde by Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson, was first released in 1886. The story of a virtuous Dr. Jekyll who mistakenly creates an alter ego of unadulterated evil serves as an examination of the duality of human nature and the battle between good and evil.
Full of mystery and fright, this story has remained popular for more than a century and has been adapted countless times—over 132 in film alone. An instant success and popular with students of morality, this thrilling tale is now available as part of the Word Cloud Classics series, making it a chic and affordable addition to every library.
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Published November 1, 2014
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About the author
Robert Louis Stevenson
6,918 books6,966 followersRobert Louis Balfour Stevenson was a Scottish novelist, poet, and travel writer, and a leading representative of English literature. He was greatly admired by many authors, including Jorge Luis Borges, Ernest Hemingway, Rudyard Kipling and Vladimir Nabokov.
Most modernist writers dismissed him, however, because he was popular and did not write within their narrow definition of literature. It is only recently that critics have begun to look beyond Stevenson's popularity and allow him a place in the Western canon.
Most modernist writers dismissed him, however, because he was popular and did not write within their narrow definition of literature. It is only recently that critics have begun to look beyond Stevenson's popularity and allow him a place in the Western canon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 4, 2016
This book basically screams: DO NOT TEST EXPERIMENTAL DRUGS ON YOURSELF OR YOU MIGHT JUST END UP WITH A SPLIT PERSONALITY FROM A DOCTOR WITH REPRESSIVE DEPRAVITIES URGES TO A PERVERTED MURDERER.
Honestly there is more to it, like the basic duality between a classicists society and the individual; but also the more simplified good versus evil, the civilized versus the uncivilized, the conscious and the unconscious, and a lot of other Freudian theories I cannot care less for.
Read it, knowing the plot is actually half the fun, it is mostly about how we get there rather than what we already know. Enjoy.
Honestly there is more to it, like the basic duality between a classicists society and the individual; but also the more simplified good versus evil, the civilized versus the uncivilized, the conscious and the unconscious, and a lot of other Freudian theories I cannot care less for.
Read it, knowing the plot is actually half the fun, it is mostly about how we get there rather than what we already know. Enjoy.
October 20, 2016
This is the second time I'm reading this classic and I must say that my former rating did not do it justice. Maybe it is Mr. Stevenson's melancholic writing style that prompted my earlier rating. I can't actually remember. But having read it again today, I am revising my opinion.
The story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde has been incorporated in many tales, into comics even (in The League of the Extraordinary Gentlemen for example). In most of those tales Mr. Hyde is Hulk-like; brutish and big. In the original story he wasn’t. On the contrary, he was smaller than Dr. Jekyll; dwarvish and scarred. Remarkably (and not too wrongly) he sometimes also is portrayed as just another „normal-looking“ man.
Because the threat of Mr. Hyde is not physical strength but rather the feeling he invokes in people around him. Nobody seems able to point at something in particular or even name WHY they feel so uneasy when around Mr. Hyde. It is, simply put, his not being bound by social conventions – he is the dark side of every human, relishing in everything Victorian society condemns as immoral.
One can only guess what the author meant. Physical violence was certainly a part of it (there are references to well-standing citizens paying for other men to perform tasks they can’t themselves because of their social standing). However, I think it goes beyond that. In several parts of the tale the author refers to passions and lusts and temptations so it’s only logical that he meant sexual desires as well (Dr. Henry Jekyll was a bachelor and at the time of this novel there were several "scientific papers" commenting on masturbation).
Whatever it all was, it literally split Dr. Jekyll in two and makes for an interesting character study as well as a very interesting look at the hypocrisy of Victorian English society (the aforementioned gentlemen still doing despicable things, only having the actual deeds performed by people they pay to keep their own hands clean).
Interestingly, Dr. Jekyll at several moments in the novel says how he pities Hyde although it is Hyde who held the power – this reminded me of a junkie after rehab, saying that he/she can go back to being clean any time they want but rather choose not to, when we all know that that is rubbish. Hubris is the term I believe (a doctor, a man of learning, succumbing to his darker side but being unable to admit defeat because he thinks his intellect makes him superior).
In many ways there is a parallel between all or at least most novels of this time – apparently many saw the facade of Victorian English society and called it out for what it was. This particular novel is perfectly rounded in its own way. The writing is, as mentioned before, rather melancholic, but that befits the story. The way it is told is like a mystery case solved so the events are not always linear. However, all that put together (plus the perfect length of the narration, it being "only" a novella) make for an excellent classic that remarks upon a lot without ever actually naming particulars - the author seems to let the reader fill in the blanks with their own Mr. Hyde-ish thoughs and desires.
The story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde has been incorporated in many tales, into comics even (in The League of the Extraordinary Gentlemen for example). In most of those tales Mr. Hyde is Hulk-like; brutish and big. In the original story he wasn’t. On the contrary, he was smaller than Dr. Jekyll; dwarvish and scarred. Remarkably (and not too wrongly) he sometimes also is portrayed as just another „normal-looking“ man.
Because the threat of Mr. Hyde is not physical strength but rather the feeling he invokes in people around him. Nobody seems able to point at something in particular or even name WHY they feel so uneasy when around Mr. Hyde. It is, simply put, his not being bound by social conventions – he is the dark side of every human, relishing in everything Victorian society condemns as immoral.
One can only guess what the author meant. Physical violence was certainly a part of it (there are references to well-standing citizens paying for other men to perform tasks they can’t themselves because of their social standing). However, I think it goes beyond that. In several parts of the tale the author refers to passions and lusts and temptations so it’s only logical that he meant sexual desires as well (Dr. Henry Jekyll was a bachelor and at the time of this novel there were several "scientific papers" commenting on masturbation).
Whatever it all was, it literally split Dr. Jekyll in two and makes for an interesting character study as well as a very interesting look at the hypocrisy of Victorian English society (the aforementioned gentlemen still doing despicable things, only having the actual deeds performed by people they pay to keep their own hands clean).
Interestingly, Dr. Jekyll at several moments in the novel says how he pities Hyde although it is Hyde who held the power – this reminded me of a junkie after rehab, saying that he/she can go back to being clean any time they want but rather choose not to, when we all know that that is rubbish. Hubris is the term I believe (a doctor, a man of learning, succumbing to his darker side but being unable to admit defeat because he thinks his intellect makes him superior).
In many ways there is a parallel between all or at least most novels of this time – apparently many saw the facade of Victorian English society and called it out for what it was. This particular novel is perfectly rounded in its own way. The writing is, as mentioned before, rather melancholic, but that befits the story. The way it is told is like a mystery case solved so the events are not always linear. However, all that put together (plus the perfect length of the narration, it being "only" a novella) make for an excellent classic that remarks upon a lot without ever actually naming particulars - the author seems to let the reader fill in the blanks with their own Mr. Hyde-ish thoughs and desires.
April 28, 2017
It's always a pleasant surprise to read a book for school and fall in love with it. I already knew the basic premise of this story, but the book just added so much more to it and it really adds interesting elements to it. I'm actually eager to write my assignment on this now instead of just dreading it.
November 26, 2023
Disclaimer: the following review might be extremely biased for I have fallen in love with Robert Louis Stevenson’s writing and there’s no redeeming me… he is now among my top five writers of all time alongside the company of Shakespeare, Hemingway, Dostoyevsky and Poe.
His writing is so eloquent, so refined that I would sometimes reread some of the sentences to just marvel at his genius. His descriptions are so vivid and his stories are so gripping filled with lively characters and plot twists.
This version of the book that I have, and that is published by Canterbury Classics, has 5 novellas in the following order: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, The suicide Club, The Rajah’s Diamond, The Pavillion on the Links and A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon.
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde:
This Novella explored themes of human nature and its duality. RLS writes “I stood already committed to a profound duplicity of life” and “that man is not truly one, but truly two, I say two, because the state of my own knowledge does not pass beyond that point.”
In short, it tells the story of a Dr. Jekyll, a respected scientist, who manages to concoct a potion that allows him to transform, physically and morally, into the sinister Mr. Hyde. We, the readers, are not privileged to this insight right away but are rather taken on a beautiful journey of intrigue and mystery with unopened letters and friends sworn to secrecy until the truth is revealed. I have to be honest, this was anticlimactic for me because I had read this back in high school and already knew about the plot twist.
The story is rich in themes of good vs evil, human duality, morality, self consciousness and, as customary in all classics, social expectations. We explore how we all have an inner evil within us and how we try to detach ourselves from its doings. In the case of our lead character here, RLS wrote “It was Hyde, after all, and Hyde alone, that was guilty.” Towards the end, we see how Dr. Jekyll struggled to keep his evil side, Mr. Hyde, in check and had him slowly become his base personality. The only way he could stop him was to kill himself. This was RLS’s way of having good prevail.
Fun facts about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde:
- Idea for this novella came to RLS in a dream
- RLS was sick and bedridden when he wrote this, and most of his other works
- The story was inspired by a real-life criminal, Deacon William Brodie
- The story was also inspired by an actual mental patient
- One of the actors, Richard Mansfield, who played Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde in 1888 was accused of being Jack the Ripper because he portrayed Mr. Hyde so well and with such passion
The Suicide Club:
This was an exciting story about a secret society of men who wish to gamble on their lives. These men, for some trivial reasons by our modern-day standards, have decided that they have had enough of life and wished to end their misery by joining a club that meets and draws cards to decide on a “victim” and an “executioner” each time. The thrill they feel in anticipation is part of the game and though most of them dread getting THAT card, they all honor it being the gentlemen they are – they have all signed a pact after all.
The main characters in this story are Prince Florizel of Bohemia and his loyal companion Colonel Geraldine. They stumble upon this club and join it out of curiosity more than anything else. They meet a few shady characters along the way and spend the whole story getting tangled in the adventures of the club and while trying to put an end to its shenanigans and arrest its founder.
RLS’s themes in this one are similar to those of the first story exploring human nature, the consequences of the choices we make, fate and honor.
This was a suspenseful read that I really enjoyed. I especially liked the character, morality and loyalty of Colonel Geraldine.
The Rajah’s Diamond:
This story is made up of four shorter stories and follows a young man’s unexpected adventures resulting from an innocent delivery of a box for his lady employer. The young man gets tangled into a larger scheme of theft, fraud and sinister plans and becomes hunted for the contents of that box.
The story continues across the other parts with more and more new revelations and plot twists unfolding and I was kept on the edge of my seat trying to guess what happens next and what will become of the diamond (which was in the box) and the young man.
The young man also discovers that his biological father, one he had never met or known about before, is also part of the larger sinister plan to steal the diamond and eventually his path crosses with two characters from the previous story, the Prince of Bohemia and and Colonel Geraldine.
This was such a wonderful set interconnected stories that were extremely entertaining. RLS showcased his incredible ability to blend mystery, adventure and character exploration in an intricate tale that also examined the interpersonal relationships of families and social class.
The Pavillion on the Links:
This story had some romance elements to it and, as it turns out, RLS can also write that well!
The story follows the narrator, Mr. Morris, who decides to visit an old friend after years of not being on speaking terms with him. Along the way, both men end up having the same love interest, Clara, who is accompanying her runaway father being chased by his debtors.
Tensions rise between the two gentlemen until they decide to unite to face the oncoming danger and protect the Pavillion on the Links. Clara ends up marrying another suitor that is introduced later on in the story and after her plan to elope with Morris unravels as he gets accused of murder.
Another suspenseful plot line with the characters caught in a web of suspicion, betrayal, and deception. In addition to juggling romance, suspense and intrigue, RLS explored the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of passionate actions as well.
A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon:
The story begins with François Villon, a struggling poet, wandering the streets of Paris. He meets a group of criminals led by the mysterious and imposing figure, Master Olivier and decides to join them for the night.
As the night unfolds, the characters share their stories and experiences and Villon quickly becomes a favorite among them. His upbringing and education provide a contrast to the rough and criminal backgrounds of the others. The camaraderie among these outcasts becomes a poignant exploration of human connection in the face of adversity.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn when the group is apprehended by the authorities. Villon faces the prospect of execution, but in a twist of fate, he is spared due to the intervention of King Louis XI and gets a chance to reflect on the nature of life and the unlikely bond forged among the diverse group of characters during that fateful night.
Stevenson's "A Lodging for the Night" captures the essence of Villon's tumultuous life, his resilience, and the unpredictable nature of fate. The story is based on Villon’s real-life events and blends historical elements with a vivid portrayal of characters, offering readers a glimpse into the harsh realities of 15th-century Paris.
Across all of his stories, at least the ones I have read, I have noticed a common theme or two. RLS focused on human nature, interrelationships and morality across all of his works. He has a beautiful way with words and can definitely build suspense in readers. I especially loved how most of his stories concluded abruptly with the reader having to deduce what happened and not be spoon-fed the resolution – this made the moral and themes of his work shine even more.
His writing is so eloquent, so refined that I would sometimes reread some of the sentences to just marvel at his genius. His descriptions are so vivid and his stories are so gripping filled with lively characters and plot twists.
This version of the book that I have, and that is published by Canterbury Classics, has 5 novellas in the following order: The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, The suicide Club, The Rajah’s Diamond, The Pavillion on the Links and A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon.
The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde:
This Novella explored themes of human nature and its duality. RLS writes “I stood already committed to a profound duplicity of life” and “that man is not truly one, but truly two, I say two, because the state of my own knowledge does not pass beyond that point.”
In short, it tells the story of a Dr. Jekyll, a respected scientist, who manages to concoct a potion that allows him to transform, physically and morally, into the sinister Mr. Hyde. We, the readers, are not privileged to this insight right away but are rather taken on a beautiful journey of intrigue and mystery with unopened letters and friends sworn to secrecy until the truth is revealed. I have to be honest, this was anticlimactic for me because I had read this back in high school and already knew about the plot twist.
The story is rich in themes of good vs evil, human duality, morality, self consciousness and, as customary in all classics, social expectations. We explore how we all have an inner evil within us and how we try to detach ourselves from its doings. In the case of our lead character here, RLS wrote “It was Hyde, after all, and Hyde alone, that was guilty.” Towards the end, we see how Dr. Jekyll struggled to keep his evil side, Mr. Hyde, in check and had him slowly become his base personality. The only way he could stop him was to kill himself. This was RLS’s way of having good prevail.
Fun facts about Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde:
- Idea for this novella came to RLS in a dream
- RLS was sick and bedridden when he wrote this, and most of his other works
- The story was inspired by a real-life criminal, Deacon William Brodie
- The story was also inspired by an actual mental patient
- One of the actors, Richard Mansfield, who played Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde in 1888 was accused of being Jack the Ripper because he portrayed Mr. Hyde so well and with such passion
The Suicide Club:
This was an exciting story about a secret society of men who wish to gamble on their lives. These men, for some trivial reasons by our modern-day standards, have decided that they have had enough of life and wished to end their misery by joining a club that meets and draws cards to decide on a “victim” and an “executioner” each time. The thrill they feel in anticipation is part of the game and though most of them dread getting THAT card, they all honor it being the gentlemen they are – they have all signed a pact after all.
The main characters in this story are Prince Florizel of Bohemia and his loyal companion Colonel Geraldine. They stumble upon this club and join it out of curiosity more than anything else. They meet a few shady characters along the way and spend the whole story getting tangled in the adventures of the club and while trying to put an end to its shenanigans and arrest its founder.
RLS’s themes in this one are similar to those of the first story exploring human nature, the consequences of the choices we make, fate and honor.
This was a suspenseful read that I really enjoyed. I especially liked the character, morality and loyalty of Colonel Geraldine.
The Rajah’s Diamond:
This story is made up of four shorter stories and follows a young man’s unexpected adventures resulting from an innocent delivery of a box for his lady employer. The young man gets tangled into a larger scheme of theft, fraud and sinister plans and becomes hunted for the contents of that box.
The story continues across the other parts with more and more new revelations and plot twists unfolding and I was kept on the edge of my seat trying to guess what happens next and what will become of the diamond (which was in the box) and the young man.
The young man also discovers that his biological father, one he had never met or known about before, is also part of the larger sinister plan to steal the diamond and eventually his path crosses with two characters from the previous story, the Prince of Bohemia and and Colonel Geraldine.
This was such a wonderful set interconnected stories that were extremely entertaining. RLS showcased his incredible ability to blend mystery, adventure and character exploration in an intricate tale that also examined the interpersonal relationships of families and social class.
The Pavillion on the Links:
This story had some romance elements to it and, as it turns out, RLS can also write that well!
The story follows the narrator, Mr. Morris, who decides to visit an old friend after years of not being on speaking terms with him. Along the way, both men end up having the same love interest, Clara, who is accompanying her runaway father being chased by his debtors.
Tensions rise between the two gentlemen until they decide to unite to face the oncoming danger and protect the Pavillion on the Links. Clara ends up marrying another suitor that is introduced later on in the story and after her plan to elope with Morris unravels as he gets accused of murder.
Another suspenseful plot line with the characters caught in a web of suspicion, betrayal, and deception. In addition to juggling romance, suspense and intrigue, RLS explored the complexities of human relationships and the consequences of passionate actions as well.
A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon:
The story begins with François Villon, a struggling poet, wandering the streets of Paris. He meets a group of criminals led by the mysterious and imposing figure, Master Olivier and decides to join them for the night.
As the night unfolds, the characters share their stories and experiences and Villon quickly becomes a favorite among them. His upbringing and education provide a contrast to the rough and criminal backgrounds of the others. The camaraderie among these outcasts becomes a poignant exploration of human connection in the face of adversity.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn when the group is apprehended by the authorities. Villon faces the prospect of execution, but in a twist of fate, he is spared due to the intervention of King Louis XI and gets a chance to reflect on the nature of life and the unlikely bond forged among the diverse group of characters during that fateful night.
Stevenson's "A Lodging for the Night" captures the essence of Villon's tumultuous life, his resilience, and the unpredictable nature of fate. The story is based on Villon’s real-life events and blends historical elements with a vivid portrayal of characters, offering readers a glimpse into the harsh realities of 15th-century Paris.
Across all of his stories, at least the ones I have read, I have noticed a common theme or two. RLS focused on human nature, interrelationships and morality across all of his works. He has a beautiful way with words and can definitely build suspense in readers. I especially loved how most of his stories concluded abruptly with the reader having to deduce what happened and not be spoon-fed the resolution – this made the moral and themes of his work shine even more.
October 28, 2020
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde is a story I knew but had never read. Now that I finally did I have to say I’m disappointed. The fact that it is told through the eyes of Mr Utterson, a lawyer, made it so boring. I would’ve loved to read this story from Jekyll's perspective but alas, we only got a short letter from him at the end. The story was way shorter than expected and again, disappointing.
The Suicide Club, a cool concept but poorly executed, the title made me think something else was going to happen, it raised my expectations and the actual story was just meh. It’s divided in three short stories, the second one was interesting, it’s about a man that’s almost framed in a murder, but the other two are just boring.
The Rajah's Diamond is about a servant who’s supposed to deliver a box which turns out to have a bunch of diamonds, most of them get stolen and it connects to one of the characters from the suicide club. The diamonds go from man to man, from hand to hand in a whirl of thieves and corruption, but again, not really worth it.
The Pavilion on the Links; two men who once were best friends drift apart but find each other again after some years. One of them tries to solve the mystery of why his friend is hiding people in a pavilion on an island. It has a mysterious and slightly romantic vibe. Needless to say, I enjoyed this one.
A Lodging for the Night is about a thief who ends up in the house of a knight in a cold night after killing a man. They talk about the injustices of war, God, and the parallels of soldier and thief.
The Suicide Club, a cool concept but poorly executed, the title made me think something else was going to happen, it raised my expectations and the actual story was just meh. It’s divided in three short stories, the second one was interesting, it’s about a man that’s almost framed in a murder, but the other two are just boring.
The Rajah's Diamond is about a servant who’s supposed to deliver a box which turns out to have a bunch of diamonds, most of them get stolen and it connects to one of the characters from the suicide club. The diamonds go from man to man, from hand to hand in a whirl of thieves and corruption, but again, not really worth it.
The Pavilion on the Links; two men who once were best friends drift apart but find each other again after some years. One of them tries to solve the mystery of why his friend is hiding people in a pavilion on an island. It has a mysterious and slightly romantic vibe. Needless to say, I enjoyed this one.
A Lodging for the Night is about a thief who ends up in the house of a knight in a cold night after killing a man. They talk about the injustices of war, God, and the parallels of soldier and thief.
April 6, 2025
Only read Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde
August 20, 2024
Finally a 19th century author who listens to their editor
February 25, 2020
This book is a nice collection of pieces written by Robert Louis Stevenson. Although all share a theme of mystery, each holds to it's own, never feeling like a repeated tale. If you are looking to introduce yourself to Stevenson's work, this is a good place to start.
After having seen so many film adaptations of the characters of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, it was nice to finally read the source material. Although it captured my interest with its gothic and science aspects, similar to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, having the story told from characters who only interact with Jekyll and Hyde at a distance made the story come off as lacking. I felt I finished the tale with more questions and confusion than a sense of satisfaction. I am not sure if this is because of the media versions I've encountered, which have expanded on the basic story, and so made me expect more of an intimate relation with the mentioned characters than what we were given. Overall, it's still a good story and I would recommend others to read it; it'll probably just take me a few re-reads to come to love it for what it is.
While the concept of "Suicide Club" started off intriguing, I eventually found myself losing interest. It was hard to return to the story after each brief reading break and remember what progressed. Perhaps the tale extended longer than it needed to or maybe none of the characters captured my interest beyond the initial meeting. Either way, I didn't enjoy it as much as the other featured works.
The way "Rajah's Diamond" is written was quite fascinating to see in use. I enjoyed seeing how events unfolded as the Diamond passed hands. However, I felt the endings for each character's tale came to a close too abruptly; in fact, there were times I felt the tale could have gone a bit longer before continuing on with the next character. Plus I would have preferred a smooth transition from character to character, rather than ending almost every chapter with "We end our travels with so-and-so and must continue with our next person." Aside from that, I think this was my favorite short story featured in the book.
"Pavilion on the Links" is on the fence for me. The story is quite fascinating and keeps you on your toes on what will happen next. But then at other times, it feels like the story is "calling wolf," making it seem like something big is going to happen but then nothing does; when the climax does finally come, it's a bit of a let down. It was also confusing on who the narrator was telling the story to - there's only one very brief mention that indicates who it might have been but otherwise remains unclear. I think the vague statements on how the main characters know each other and how their relationship with each other is led to the feeling of missing something. This is one of the better short stories but does seem like it could've used a bit more work to fully make it a gem.
Among all of the tales in this book, "Story of Francis Villon" has to be my least favorite. We barely get details on who Francis is and why we should care about him, and how he knows the other people he spends the early evening with. The conflict that sets everything into motion seems out of place and even more so how calmly (or close to it) everyone else reacts to it. In the end, I was just left confused on what the story was about overall and what I was supposed to take away from it.
After having seen so many film adaptations of the characters of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, it was nice to finally read the source material. Although it captured my interest with its gothic and science aspects, similar to Mary Shelley's Frankenstein, having the story told from characters who only interact with Jekyll and Hyde at a distance made the story come off as lacking. I felt I finished the tale with more questions and confusion than a sense of satisfaction. I am not sure if this is because of the media versions I've encountered, which have expanded on the basic story, and so made me expect more of an intimate relation with the mentioned characters than what we were given. Overall, it's still a good story and I would recommend others to read it; it'll probably just take me a few re-reads to come to love it for what it is.
While the concept of "Suicide Club" started off intriguing, I eventually found myself losing interest. It was hard to return to the story after each brief reading break and remember what progressed. Perhaps the tale extended longer than it needed to or maybe none of the characters captured my interest beyond the initial meeting. Either way, I didn't enjoy it as much as the other featured works.
The way "Rajah's Diamond" is written was quite fascinating to see in use. I enjoyed seeing how events unfolded as the Diamond passed hands. However, I felt the endings for each character's tale came to a close too abruptly; in fact, there were times I felt the tale could have gone a bit longer before continuing on with the next character. Plus I would have preferred a smooth transition from character to character, rather than ending almost every chapter with "We end our travels with so-and-so and must continue with our next person." Aside from that, I think this was my favorite short story featured in the book.
"Pavilion on the Links" is on the fence for me. The story is quite fascinating and keeps you on your toes on what will happen next. But then at other times, it feels like the story is "calling wolf," making it seem like something big is going to happen but then nothing does; when the climax does finally come, it's a bit of a let down. It was also confusing on who the narrator was telling the story to - there's only one very brief mention that indicates who it might have been but otherwise remains unclear. I think the vague statements on how the main characters know each other and how their relationship with each other is led to the feeling of missing something. This is one of the better short stories but does seem like it could've used a bit more work to fully make it a gem.
Among all of the tales in this book, "Story of Francis Villon" has to be my least favorite. We barely get details on who Francis is and why we should care about him, and how he knows the other people he spends the early evening with. The conflict that sets everything into motion seems out of place and even more so how calmly (or close to it) everyone else reacts to it. In the end, I was just left confused on what the story was about overall and what I was supposed to take away from it.
November 1, 2021
I'm giving this short story collection a 4-star rating solely because of the Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(⭐)
I'm still debating if this story is a 4-star or a 5-star rating. It's definitely a high 4-star!
I read this twice, having to get used to the writing style and storytelling, however, I enjoyed it equally both times! Where the first time, I was fascinated by the story and the circumstances around it, the second time I was more immersed in the use of language and the direct hints at the obvious ending. I especially loved the "humans contain both good and evil, it's just what they feed the most that defines them" discussion.
In my notes from the first time reading it I wrote: "the parent to the Hulk". I have no idea what I meant by it, lol.
The Suicide Club: ⭐⭐(⭐)
The tricky thing about this story is that I loved the vibes from the first chapter (Story of the Young Man With the Cream Tarts), however, the rest of the story I just didn't care about at all. It felt like when you tell a joke and when no one laughs you begin to explain it. Yeah, that's what the rest of the story felt like. It was boring and unnecessary. I wish that it was only the first chapter.
The Rajah's Diamond: ⭐⭐(⭐)
I feel like this story was better executed in introducing new characters for each chapter relating to the main story. The flow was somewhat easier to follow, even though I just didn't care all that much about the plot. Where in The Suicide Club I was interested in the premise, in The Rajah's Diamond I just wasn't interested. Though I do have come to enjoy the character of the Prince of Bohemia. Also, I don't know if it's wrongly interpreted on my side, but I did enjoy how modern the women were portrayed considering the time period that it was written in (Lady Vandeleur might be portrayed as a villain, but in a competent kind of way, am I right?)
The Pavilion on the Links: ⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed the storytelling aspect of this story-it was like Frank Cassilis was telling his children the story of how he met their mother, but other than that, I don't really see much point of the story, especially Mr. Northmour. Make up your mind, Robert Louis Stevenson, is he a friend or a foe?
A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was surprised that I actually enjoyed this story a lot. Having in mind that this was what started the short story genre, it was well written and I actually got something out of it-and it's the shortest of the bunch! The setting was well written and the message wasn't pushed upon you-you had the ability to decide if you sided with Francis or the soldier. I liked the discussion between a soldier and a thief: one with a public sort of honour and another with honour on the inside where no one sees. The discussion of privilege and social class, how faith is a privilege for the rich while the poor have no time to think about God when all they can think about is when and how to get their next meal, how to provide. It's amazing what a few couples of pages can do and Robert Louis Stevenson proved that with this short story. It also kind of reminded me of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, even though that one isn't as short as this one, lol.
Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: ⭐⭐⭐⭐(⭐)
I'm still debating if this story is a 4-star or a 5-star rating. It's definitely a high 4-star!
I read this twice, having to get used to the writing style and storytelling, however, I enjoyed it equally both times! Where the first time, I was fascinated by the story and the circumstances around it, the second time I was more immersed in the use of language and the direct hints at the obvious ending. I especially loved the "humans contain both good and evil, it's just what they feed the most that defines them" discussion.
In my notes from the first time reading it I wrote: "the parent to the Hulk". I have no idea what I meant by it, lol.
The Suicide Club: ⭐⭐(⭐)
The tricky thing about this story is that I loved the vibes from the first chapter (Story of the Young Man With the Cream Tarts), however, the rest of the story I just didn't care about at all. It felt like when you tell a joke and when no one laughs you begin to explain it. Yeah, that's what the rest of the story felt like. It was boring and unnecessary. I wish that it was only the first chapter.
The Rajah's Diamond: ⭐⭐(⭐)
I feel like this story was better executed in introducing new characters for each chapter relating to the main story. The flow was somewhat easier to follow, even though I just didn't care all that much about the plot. Where in The Suicide Club I was interested in the premise, in The Rajah's Diamond I just wasn't interested. Though I do have come to enjoy the character of the Prince of Bohemia. Also, I don't know if it's wrongly interpreted on my side, but I did enjoy how modern the women were portrayed considering the time period that it was written in (Lady Vandeleur might be portrayed as a villain, but in a competent kind of way, am I right?)
The Pavilion on the Links: ⭐⭐⭐
I enjoyed the storytelling aspect of this story-it was like Frank Cassilis was telling his children the story of how he met their mother, but other than that, I don't really see much point of the story, especially Mr. Northmour. Make up your mind, Robert Louis Stevenson, is he a friend or a foe?
A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I was surprised that I actually enjoyed this story a lot. Having in mind that this was what started the short story genre, it was well written and I actually got something out of it-and it's the shortest of the bunch! The setting was well written and the message wasn't pushed upon you-you had the ability to decide if you sided with Francis or the soldier. I liked the discussion between a soldier and a thief: one with a public sort of honour and another with honour on the inside where no one sees. The discussion of privilege and social class, how faith is a privilege for the rich while the poor have no time to think about God when all they can think about is when and how to get their next meal, how to provide. It's amazing what a few couples of pages can do and Robert Louis Stevenson proved that with this short story. It also kind of reminded me of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol, even though that one isn't as short as this one, lol.
October 21, 2019
I really love the Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde so I was really excited to read some more by this author. I was really happy with my reread, I enjoyed the story as much as I have in the past. The other short stories varied, but overall I enjoyed them as well. If you enjoy Jekyll and Hyde, I think you will enjoy the rest of these stories.
June 3, 2023
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde was a little less good than what I remembered, but that's a cool story anyway. The Suicide Club and The Rajah's Diamond were a little boring and characters were really annoying.
However I really liked The Pavilion on the Links even if it could be a way better story...
I really don't know what to think about the last story though (a lodging for the night)..
However I really liked The Pavilion on the Links even if it could be a way better story...
I really don't know what to think about the last story though (a lodging for the night)..
Read
February 2, 2022"Now, we know that life is only a stage to play the fool upon as long as the part amuses us."
life would be so much more unparalleled if i had even an infinitesimal piece of grandeur that is prince florizel of bohemia
life would be so much more unparalleled if i had even an infinitesimal piece of grandeur that is prince florizel of bohemia
June 3, 2024
It took me a while to finish this book but it was worth it. I love Robert Louis Stevenson way of telling you a story. I am in love with his writing <3
April 6, 2024
Super cool concept, could have been an email
August 25, 2024
I read this collection for Short Story Sunday - something that I created myself, every Sunday I read a different short story, alternating between a bunch of collections.
Stevenson uses his characters to examine base questions as in what does it mean to be human and to look at mankind at its worst.
CAWPILE breakdown:
Characters: 5/5 - Overall, Stevenson's characters were detailed and complex. They are vivid in detail and lifelike.
Atmosphere/Setting: 5/5 - These stories always had vivid settings and atmospheres; almost a character on its own, in some stories they were characters.
Writing Style: 3/5 - Overall, I enjoyed Stevenson's writing style. Sometimes it felt that the writing meandered a bit. Sometimes it felt a bit too detailed that didn't further the stories.
Plot: 3/5 - Sometimes the plot was clear and exact. Other times it felt like it wandered, leaving me to wonder what exactly the plot of the story was.
Intrigue: 5/5 - I was always intrigued.
Logic/Relationships: 4/5 - For the most part, the relationships were true to what was expected.
Enjoyment: 4/5 - I mostly enjoyed the stories. A few of them felt a bit too long for my liking.
Total: 29/7 = 4.14 = 4/5 stars
Stevenson uses his characters to examine base questions as in what does it mean to be human and to look at mankind at its worst.
CAWPILE breakdown:
Characters: 5/5 - Overall, Stevenson's characters were detailed and complex. They are vivid in detail and lifelike.
Atmosphere/Setting: 5/5 - These stories always had vivid settings and atmospheres; almost a character on its own, in some stories they were characters.
Writing Style: 3/5 - Overall, I enjoyed Stevenson's writing style. Sometimes it felt that the writing meandered a bit. Sometimes it felt a bit too detailed that didn't further the stories.
Plot: 3/5 - Sometimes the plot was clear and exact. Other times it felt like it wandered, leaving me to wonder what exactly the plot of the story was.
Intrigue: 5/5 - I was always intrigued.
Logic/Relationships: 4/5 - For the most part, the relationships were true to what was expected.
Enjoyment: 4/5 - I mostly enjoyed the stories. A few of them felt a bit too long for my liking.
Total: 29/7 = 4.14 = 4/5 stars
December 13, 2024
I finally finished all of the short stories. I was reading this a long with a subscription box art and reading book club. Message me if you want to learn more. Fun group. I enjoyed reading the original Dr Jekyl and Mr Hide. It is different than the story we all know. The main thrust of the story we all know is the same but there are many different details. I enjoyed it. As for the other short stories I read them but hardly remember them. The suicide club was interesting 🧐 but I could do without the others.
December 8, 2024
I was a little disappointed. The namesake story felt like it was going along as a great mystery. Then it felt like the narrator got tired of telling the story and just skipped to the end. I got through the next few stories related to the suicide club but they didn't really capture me.
October 9, 2024
not as boring as I thought it would be :p
And now I get to write a paper 🥲
And now I get to write a paper 🥲
November 1, 2024
Dark and mysterious, it's interesting reading about the fall into madness. It's one of those classics you have to at least read once.
September 23, 2025
Jekyll and Hide is great. Anything after that just goes downhill, until you just want to abandon the whole thing.
November 14, 2025
4 ⭐️ for Jekyll and Hyde
Will read the other stories at a later date.
Will read the other stories at a later date.
September 29, 2023
Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde - 3.5 - Glad I have finally read/listened to this story as it is one of the classic horror stories that is a staple and has gone on to be reimagined and studied since its inception. It was another one that included people telling stories from the 'main' point of view in order to figure out what was happening. Great commentary about undesirable characteristics of society and how repressing them or letting them take over can lead to, split personalities and the nature of human nature.
The Suicide Club - 2.5 - This was my least favourite in this collection, it felt very disjointed and I wasn't as interested so I became confused keeping who people were between the three stories that make up the collection that is the suicide club. Also, the club did not make much sense to me. Meh.
The Rajah's Diamond - 3 - There were several parts to this story and each was very interesting as they all linked so in order to fully understand it is required to read all of them but that was actually quite fun. The moral of the story was also quite well put through (at least the one I found) about how wealth/greed corrupts all it comes in contact with. The only issue I had was keeping up with all the characters, also the character of Francois Scrymgeour made such leaps in logic it was baffling.
The Pavilion on the Links - 3.5 - My second favourite story in this collection, quite mysterious and intriguing from the get-go. Although very angsty and I'm off to the wilderness but I'm wealthy and I have no friends only acquaintances, honestly very clique which made me laugh. The conduct of Northmour was horrid and I disliked him from the offset and hated him by the end, but the rest was enjoyable.
A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon - 2.5 - Probably my least favourite story, I'm not sure what the point is except exploring human nature and the duality of people like in Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde but not in as much detail or as extreme.
The Suicide Club - 2.5 - This was my least favourite in this collection, it felt very disjointed and I wasn't as interested so I became confused keeping who people were between the three stories that make up the collection that is the suicide club. Also, the club did not make much sense to me. Meh.
The Rajah's Diamond - 3 - There were several parts to this story and each was very interesting as they all linked so in order to fully understand it is required to read all of them but that was actually quite fun. The moral of the story was also quite well put through (at least the one I found) about how wealth/greed corrupts all it comes in contact with. The only issue I had was keeping up with all the characters, also the character of Francois Scrymgeour made such leaps in logic it was baffling.
The Pavilion on the Links - 3.5 - My second favourite story in this collection, quite mysterious and intriguing from the get-go. Although very angsty and I'm off to the wilderness but I'm wealthy and I have no friends only acquaintances, honestly very clique which made me laugh. The conduct of Northmour was horrid and I disliked him from the offset and hated him by the end, but the rest was enjoyable.
A Lodging for the Night: A Story of Francis Villon - 2.5 - Probably my least favourite story, I'm not sure what the point is except exploring human nature and the duality of people like in Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde but not in as much detail or as extreme.
November 1, 2016
3 Stars!
I quite enjoyed Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde. Nothing scary or horror like about it but it was well written, entertainingly written. It wasn't a draggy read, pretty short book actually. And though everyone knows who and what Jekyll and Hyde is, it didn't destroy the story for me. I think I liked how it was told from someone else's perspective in third person (does that make sense?) it was focused on someone else's view but written in third person. I think I found the characters reactions of Hyde kind of funny and how afraid everyone was. Overall, I liked the story.
There are 4 other stories in this book. They weren't great reads but enjoyable. They were like investigative stories but not focused on crime, more getting to the truth of the matter.
The second story, The Suicide Club, I found too late long, some parts unnecessary though it was a good idea.
The third story, The Rajah's Diamond, I really liked the beginning. The rest of the story was okay.
The fourth story, The Pavillion On The Links, was an okay story though It was a short one. I did enjoy the fighting over the lady between the two men funny.
The final story, A Lodging For The Night: A Story Of Francis Villon, was extremely short! I enjoyed the way it was written, the start was good but I didn't see a point in the end. It seemed like an idea that went nowhere.
I think I found the other stories started off well but didn't end so good. I would only recommend them to those who enjoy stories about finding out the truth. Like something is happening with someone and someone else must find out what's going on with that person. I wouldn't have a clue what to call that in one word.
I quite enjoyed Strange Case Of Dr. Jekyll And Mr. Hyde. Nothing scary or horror like about it but it was well written, entertainingly written. It wasn't a draggy read, pretty short book actually. And though everyone knows who and what Jekyll and Hyde is, it didn't destroy the story for me. I think I liked how it was told from someone else's perspective in third person (does that make sense?) it was focused on someone else's view but written in third person. I think I found the characters reactions of Hyde kind of funny and how afraid everyone was. Overall, I liked the story.
There are 4 other stories in this book. They weren't great reads but enjoyable. They were like investigative stories but not focused on crime, more getting to the truth of the matter.
The second story, The Suicide Club, I found too late long, some parts unnecessary though it was a good idea.
The third story, The Rajah's Diamond, I really liked the beginning. The rest of the story was okay.
The fourth story, The Pavillion On The Links, was an okay story though It was a short one. I did enjoy the fighting over the lady between the two men funny.
The final story, A Lodging For The Night: A Story Of Francis Villon, was extremely short! I enjoyed the way it was written, the start was good but I didn't see a point in the end. It seemed like an idea that went nowhere.
I think I found the other stories started off well but didn't end so good. I would only recommend them to those who enjoy stories about finding out the truth. Like something is happening with someone and someone else must find out what's going on with that person. I wouldn't have a clue what to call that in one word.
August 24, 2018
An amazing collection of lyrical tales of crime, psychology and the horrors of humanity. I love that Stevenson takes the modern setting of London at that time, the common, everyday livelihoods and creates a dark and twisted tale. There are so many layers within these stories that create a world in which I am constantly questioning my daily life. Even over a hundred years after these stories were published.
One of the things that I always enjoy about classics is that fact that they have multiple layers and realities which you can sink your teeth into. These tales can be read again, and again, and again and there will always be a new layer you can find. I suppose that’s why they’re classics. But this collection has certainly moved to the top of my list of favourite classics… it’s just that little bit darker, and that little bit more twisted.
For individual reviews, head to: https://earthandskye.org/categories/s...
One of the things that I always enjoy about classics is that fact that they have multiple layers and realities which you can sink your teeth into. These tales can be read again, and again, and again and there will always be a new layer you can find. I suppose that’s why they’re classics. But this collection has certainly moved to the top of my list of favourite classics… it’s just that little bit darker, and that little bit more twisted.
For individual reviews, head to: https://earthandskye.org/categories/s...
December 19, 2020
Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: ★★★★★
Suicide Club and Rajah’s Diamond: ★★★
A series of short stories with Prince Florizel of Bohemia as a recurring character. Despite being a monarch, he has “a taste for life more adventurous and eccentric than that he was destined,” He assists people who stumble on dangerous situations, and comes off as an inexperienced detective.
I really enjoyed the concept of a society that helps one another to frame the end of their lives, and I wish it were the main focus of the three-part story.
Unfortunately, both Suicide Club and Rajah’s Diamond focused on the characters, who were divided between good and bad. The main characters had the tendency to make naïve decisions, but always come out unscathed from their illegal acts.
Pavilion on the Links: ★★★
On the coast of Graden-Easter, Cassilis finds the pavilion of his old friend occupied and a woman who tells him to flee from the vicinity.
After reading three stories that take place in populated cities, it was refreshing to read about a house near the open ocean.
Suicide Club and Rajah’s Diamond: ★★★
A series of short stories with Prince Florizel of Bohemia as a recurring character. Despite being a monarch, he has “a taste for life more adventurous and eccentric than that he was destined,” He assists people who stumble on dangerous situations, and comes off as an inexperienced detective.
I really enjoyed the concept of a society that helps one another to frame the end of their lives, and I wish it were the main focus of the three-part story.
Unfortunately, both Suicide Club and Rajah’s Diamond focused on the characters, who were divided between good and bad. The main characters had the tendency to make naïve decisions, but always come out unscathed from their illegal acts.
Pavilion on the Links: ★★★
On the coast of Graden-Easter, Cassilis finds the pavilion of his old friend occupied and a woman who tells him to flee from the vicinity.
After reading three stories that take place in populated cities, it was refreshing to read about a house near the open ocean.
April 17, 2020
Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde: 3 stars
Hard to follow for somebody which English is not the main language
The Suicide Club : 2 stars
I was so lost. I think the majority of the action is telled, not showed (and even move over). The second chapter is really long for only a small exposition and most of the information is not even explained. That was weird.
The Rajah's diamond : Do Robert Louis Stevenson was paid by the word? Some chapters are way too long for a small exposition. We know all the secondary character back story.
The pavilion on the links: 3 stars
No flafla with another minor character. The chapter titles give all the spoilers away but otherwise it was interesting.
A lodging for the night : 2 stars.
Nice twist at the end, beginning was interesting. Then the story went flat. I understand the author wanted to make a statement about being poor but it felt flat.
Hard to follow for somebody which English is not the main language
The Suicide Club : 2 stars
I was so lost. I think the majority of the action is telled, not showed (and even move over). The second chapter is really long for only a small exposition and most of the information is not even explained. That was weird.
The Rajah's diamond : Do Robert Louis Stevenson was paid by the word? Some chapters are way too long for a small exposition. We know all the secondary character back story.
The pavilion on the links: 3 stars
No flafla with another minor character. The chapter titles give all the spoilers away but otherwise it was interesting.
A lodging for the night : 2 stars.
Nice twist at the end, beginning was interesting. Then the story went flat. I understand the author wanted to make a statement about being poor but it felt flat.
May 6, 2024
This story is a classic for a reason, the building suspense and anticipation throughout the whole story kept me on edge. The writing itself was not what I expected. The different perspectives in the plot as well as the in depth descriptions were a pleasant surprise. With that being said, the old English writing style was hard to get through at times. Specifically in the middle of the story, it became hard to stay focused and engaged in the plot. If I could, I would rate this a 3.5 rather than 3 or 4 stars. Regardless, the descriptive writing made up for the old style as it made me feel fully immersed in the story. I'm glad to have finally read such a popular classic and I fully recommend others to read it as well.
January 1, 2021
This story was not what I had expected it to be. The book wasn't as spooky as I had expected. I had already watched the film Mary Reilly so I already knew some of the plot points. The other stories in the book were interesting and I liked how they were interconnected with each other.
Rated: 2.0/5.0 - Overall, I was disappointed as the story didn't live up to my expectations. It was fun to read the original source of the Dr. Jekell and Mr Hyde story, I think I'd like to explore other books or movies based on this.
Rated: 2.0/5.0 - Overall, I was disappointed as the story didn't live up to my expectations. It was fun to read the original source of the Dr. Jekell and Mr Hyde story, I think I'd like to explore other books or movies based on this.
October 24, 2023
I've finished reading Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, phew! For a short story, I took ages to read it, for no particular reason either. I read it to support one of my students - they're studying the book, but she doesn't like reading and finds it too wordy and "boring". I'd agree it is wordy, but also of its time.
I found it interesting that Hyde is portrayed as being short of stature and underdeveloped, growing as Jekyll sickens. Any prior knowledge I had of Hyde, portrays him as being enormous. Which does make the point that monsters aren't always huge.
I found it interesting that Hyde is portrayed as being short of stature and underdeveloped, growing as Jekyll sickens. Any prior knowledge I had of Hyde, portrays him as being enormous. Which does make the point that monsters aren't always huge.
April 7, 2022
This review is for Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde only; I didn’t read the other stories. The story was a drag to get through at times, with details seemingly only mattering to Stevenson when he’s detailing something painfully uninteresting. If you actually want to hear more about something neat mentioned in the story, good luck. The frequent change in narrative perspective was an enjoyable choice. There was a lot of suspense, although I did feel very underwhelmed by the end.
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