The Glass Scientists: Volume Two: A Graphic Novel

The Glass Scientists #2

by S.H. Cotugno

The second book in the YA graphic novel series about star-crossed lovers and misunderstood monsters, which is already a webcomic phenomenon!All Dr. Henry Jekyll wanted to do was make London a safe place for rogue scientists. That’s why he and his best friend Robert created the Society for Arcane Sciences in the first place, and why their upcoming exhibition to show the public all the incredible things they can do for the world is so important. But ever since Frankenstein arrived, nothing has gone according to plan….And now Jekyll’s dirty little secret is about to become a huge problem. Hyde, his devilishly devious alter-ego, is fed up with being jerked around and Jekyll not letting him out to play. And he’s just discovered a new trick that will allow him to take the driver’s seat of their shared body. With Hyde behind the wheel, it’s not just the impeding exhibition and the future of the society in jeopardy. The ruffian threatens to destroy something that’s even more dear to his relationship with Robert. Will Jekyll be able to regain control of his mind, body, and life, or will he lose everything he has been fighting for?

Genres: Graphic Novels, Fantasy, Queer, Young Adult, LGBT, Comics, Historical

240 pages, Hardcover

Published September 24, 2024

Reviews

[Dusty · Rating 5 out of 5]

god i love gay people

[piper monarchsandmyths · Rating 4 out of 5]

thank you to Penguin Teen for providing me with an eARC!

These graphic novels keep pulling me back in and I think that I ended up enjoying this volume even more than the first. It’s a little bit more loudly queer and and the author’s note at the end made me tear up again! Gothic and romantic science and fantastical fiction are such fun modes to explore queerness (in gender, sexuality, personality, etc) and in my mind that’s the best part about this series. I think that, since we also already know the characters going into this volume, there’s a greater exploration of the characters which I really enjoyed, especially everything with Dr. Jekyll. The character development and all the new elements added were probably my favourite. The art was also still cool and while it’s not my absolute favourite style, it so fits the story that’s being told. Something that I wasn’t expecting is the bonus story and extra comics, and I think they added some fun extra elements of the world and the characters. If you enjoyed the first volume or if you’re looking for some classics retellings that are extremely queer and have lots of supernatural characters, then this is definitely worth the read!

[lydia · Rating 4 out of 5]

cagaron 😔

[Astor Starflower · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never write reviews, but I want to rant about this one. This is now one of my favorite graphic novel series/books ever. Despite being someone who is insufferably picky when it comes to graphic novels, I knew I would love this series the instant I saw it.

Each page is bold, visual candy with incredibly satisfying color palettes, the humor is absolute perfection in my book (I found myself wanting to kick my feet and shriek with sheer delight on multiple occasions). The setting/story is captivating right off the bat, and yet somehow keeps developing into something more compelling and meaningful with every chapter. I also adore all of the bonus content and the author’s thoughts on their artistic process!!

And don’t get me started on the outstandingly vibrant and endearing characters that have implanted themselves securely in my brain and blatantly refuse to leave. See my new profile photo: case and point. ;b

[Theo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I. Freaking. ADORE. This. Series.

Yes you can read it online through the official website, but I want to support the author because it is THAT good.

[Alex M · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You ate your name pig?!”

[a.k.a. forest · Rating 5 out of 5]

I stated this in my review of the first volume, but I have been following this comic for just about ten years now! And I can confidently say that it is one of the best I've ever read. Even beyond the impressive slew of classical horror characters--which the author makes both recognizable and amazingly unique and new--there is a plotline here with (I know it sounds cheesy) so much heart to it. There are few pieces of media that I describe as comforting to me, and this is undoubtedly one of them. I'm eagerly awaiting the third volume of the comic, but at the same time I'm scared of it, because it means it's over T-T

[Emily Thouless · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've always loved this as a webcomic and now that I have most of it in print I enjoy it even more! The bonus content makes having it in print even better, especially the making of section and drawings of Sages interpretation of Dracula and Jekyll. I can't wait to reread the whole story when volume 3 is released!

[Jess Freeman · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've enjoyed both Vol. 1 & 2 of this colorful webcomic-to-print tale of unorthodox scientists.
Great for fans of:
- YA comics/webtoons
- Gothic Victorian Era Retellings
- Rogue Scientists
- Loveable Monsters
- LGBTQ+ Rep
- Star-crossed Lovers
Fun mix of action, humor, & romance

[Sharon · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wish I loved this series - it seems exactly my kind of thing - but I just feel okay about it.

[Liz (Quirky Cat) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summary:

All Dr. Henry Jekyll wanted to do was make a refuge for fellow scientists. He wanted to erase the very notion of adding "mad" in front of their titles. Unfortunately, his counterpart is making this goal harder, by the way.

The truth is, it's hard to bring about lasting change when you're terrified of your own shadow. Or secrets. Perhaps that is why everything seems to be falling apart. And Hyde doesn't understand why Jekyll finds it all so upsetting. Who will win this battle for mind and body?

Review:

Yes! I fell in love with The Glass Scientists thanks to volume one, so I am thrilled to have gotten my greedy little hands on The Glass Scientists Vol. 2. It is everything I could have hoped for – and quite possibly more.

Where the first volume introduced us to a vibrant world full of brilliant characters and surprising twists, The Glass Scientists Vol. 2 dives deeper into the darker side. That's not to say that the last volume didn't have risk; it just feels elevated here.

After all, everything comes to a head in the end, doesn't it? (Here's hoping this is far from the head, despite my statement). The battle between Jekyll and Hyde feels so intense, it's by far the most personal and human interpretation I've seen to date.

Likewise, they are far from the only plot in this volume. Many of our characters are either in turmoil or dealing with some secret or another. In other words, the world is expanding, and our characters are along for the ride.

I personally really enjoyed some of the revelations made in this book, and I'm already counting down the days to volume three. I may have to cave in and dive into the web series because I'm not sure I can handle the wait.

Highlights:
Clever and Creative
Historical Fiction – with a Twist
Steampunk Vibes
Vibrant Characters
Fantastic Artwork

Thanks to G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.

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[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's been nearly a year since I first discovered The Glass Scientists, and I've pretty much been obsessed ever since. There's just so much to love about this series; the art is gorgeous, the characters and their relationships with each other are so compelling, and all of the parallels and symbolism present are a joy to discover and dissect. I never imagined I would find myself eagerly anticipating Monday mornings, but getting to read a new page of this webcomic each Monday has become one of the biggest highlights of my week. Whenever I'm stressed or burnt out or pulling yet another all-nighter, knowing it won't be long before I get to read a new TGS page can be pretty encouraging. It really gives me something to look forward to. I am deeply invested in these characters, and I really look forward to seeing where their stories go.

Now to talk about Vol. 2 specifically. Even though I had already read the chapters contained in this book via the webcomic, there is still so much to be excited about when it comes to Vol. 2. (Personally, I find it fascinating to study the small differences between the art and dialogue of the webcomic and the graphic novel, but I might be alone on that.) The real highlight of Vol. 2 for those who keep up with the webcomic is, of course, the bonus content. I love getting to learn more about this series's history and development. Luckily, this book has even more development lore than Vol. 1. And then there's the bonus story. I adore the bonus story of this volume so much. It was without a doubt the most exciting part of Vol. 2 for me. If there were full TGS novels in the vein of this story, I would be buying every one of them because I cannot get enough of these characters.

If you're thinking about giving this series a shot, absolutely go for it. It's severely underrated, and I cannot recommend it enough. If you're already a fan of the webcomic and you're unsure whether the physical copy is worth buying, also go for it. The bonus content is absolutely worth it.

[Angel Gonzales · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been following The Glass Scientists since about 2017 and recently picked it up again to catch up. The fact that there is something so thought-provoking amidst the flourish of whimsy art and dreamy design is nothing short of genius.

I have always admired Cotugno's storytelling. Every character makes an impact. Every setting immerses you deeply. Even certain objects feel personified the stronger they are tied to a character or a scenario. The way Cotugno has handled the story of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde in this retelling has been nothing short of phenomenal! This is the adaptation that has dared to do something different, to handle both Jekyll and Hyde as whole characters, yet making them so distinctly alike in the most undeniable of ways.

And I'll never be able to get over the fact that Cotugno's Jekyll is more morally ambiguous, even a bit scary at times, compared to their Hyde. Most people are afraid to lean into this more realistic human aspect of Jekyll, but Cotugno dared to go to that uncharted territory and dodged the bullet of making Jekyll "evil". It makes both Jekyll and Hyde (and, truly, every character in the main cast) a mirror held up to a reader's soul. You can't read The Glass Scientists and not find yourself reflected in someone's situation, reaction, or even the way they traverse passions and relationships.

I've followed this story for almost eight or so years, and I've grown up with it. Having media like this helped me feel seen, knowing someone else loved and desired more of the classical stories we were handed down. Jekyll and Hyde's road to understanding themselves and each other is a journey that resonates deeply with me. There is so much depth, so much to love, and so much to laugh and cry over with The Glass Scientists.

I can't wait to see how it will end, but I also dread the day it will.

[ash (smokedshelves) · Rating 3 out of 5]

thank you to putnam son’s and penguin teen for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

i’ll be honest, i was a bit hesitant to continue on with this series. the first book felt like much hadn’t happened while following too much characters. but this was a graphic novel, so thankfully they’re very quick to go through and i was more willing to continue on with it than i would in a normal series.

and i’m definitely glad i did. while still not my favorite graphic novel series, a lot of my main concerns and complaints from the first volume transferred over. i can definitely say this one was better. we had a bit more background information for how jekyll/hyde came to be in this story. and there was a teensy bit more plot to follow in this one. also, this one was a lot more explicitly queer than the first which i truly appreciated.

i know the author had mentioned at the end of the volume that it’s difficult to adapt a webcomic into a traditional graphic novel because stories that you would have there can get dropped to favor of the main storyline. and i can definitely tell that this is what may be happening here. it does still feel a bit disjointed albeit leagues better than in vol 1. so, at this point i am definitely much more likely to keep going at this point and i hope i can see the growth with each volume in the pacing/storyline decisions.

[W · Rating 5 out of 5]

A thrilling second part to a brilliant series! The characters in this world are incredibly rich and complex, some based on classic favorites, and the story is a wild ride as it explores the characters, their relationships, and concepts bigger than just one person. There's something for everyone in this, whether you're a fan of the original Jekyll and Hyde gothic horror novella, or someone looking for a riveting tale with great representation. The Glass Scientists takes something known and crafts it into something entirely new and different, while still preserving much of the themes and the characterisation of the original.

Something that I personally love is that the story has layers. You can read it from cover to cover over and over and you still might not notice every little detail, and that's something that makes it so fun. Parallels and broader themes and metaphors, as well as little design details that are just neat, it's all there.

A stunning graphic novel that I would recommend (and have recommended) to everyone!

[somethingrotten12 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I discovered this webcomic over the summer and have been obsessed ever since. I eagerly await every Monday update. Every page is a work of art. I've probably read it over a hundred times (maybe more like 10 but still)
"The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" is one of my all time favorite books, maybe even my number one favorite. "The Glass Scientists" is by far the best adaptation I've read. It takes all my favorite parts of the original novella and makes them even better. This version of Hyde is my favorite Hyde ever, because I can really relate to his struggles and goal (even though I don't hop on rooftops and burn down buildings). The setting and atmosphere is beautifully done and extremely immersive. The art itself is extremely high quality. You can feel the love and hard work put into every panel.
Reading this comic is one of the highlights of my week and I eagerly await each new page. Thank you, Sage Cotugno, for blessing us with this wonderful story.

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Thank you to Penguin Teen and NetGalley for the eARC. This in no way changed my rating**

I enjoyed volume two just as much as I liked the first one. The art style is engaging and interesting and once again, Cotugno managed to drop in so many fun allusions to classic Sci-Fi and Horror novels. I also really appreciated the abundance of queer and BIPOC rep, especially that they don’t have to “explain” their existence. They’re allowed to just be. In particular, this volume has two trans characters, a polyamorous relationship, two main characters who are insinuated bi or pan, and lesbian rep, many of whom are also BIPOC. It’s nice to see rep where the story doesn’t always have to center our trauma. That trauma is mentioned, but mainly we just get to be kickass scientists, which is nice.

The cliffhanger has me waiting for volume three anxiously. I can’t wait to see how it all ends!

[Dragon Invasion · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gosh the comic is gorgeous!!! i swear reading it digital is amazing, but it's not compared to having the physical copy with it's top quality printing!

I love The Glass Scientists, i swear it's the best retelling of The Strange case i've ever read, Sage expands the novel's characters in the best ways possible, and it's so compelling to see how their true selves unravel and we get to see the darkest corners of their souls and what makes them tick <2

And the art is amazing! it always is ofc, but the nightmare hallucinations are some of my favorite visuals in the comic, and they're at their best during volume two (jekyll really needs a nap)

Honestly, i'm so excited with every monday update, can't wait to see how Sage wraps up their amazing story, sending the bestest of good vibes for the rest of the project!

[Noulis Denker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This comic has a very special place in my heart, so I may be a bit biased. However, volume II is not only of amazing visual quality but also of amazing story telling quality. (Just like Volume I) The characters are dynamic, flawed and relatable. I genuinely care about what happens to them and the plot hooks you on immediately. The volume also includes a bonus story featuring Dracula and insight into the author's process of creating the volume! So all in all, I can't think of any flaws that would hold you back on buying this book. If you enjoy gothic steam punky vibes paired with drama, comedy and sprinkles of romance, or if you're a fan of the strange case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, I definitely recommend it!

[Kayla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve only recently found this series, but I’ve become hooked! I saw some panels floating around the internet that drew me in first, but the art style, humour, and emotional moments kept me reading from start to (current) finish. The initial chapters do a very good job at setting up the world it takes place in, introducing characters and themes that stay relevant throughout the whole read. The artists are very skilled- I will be studying how they staged and coloured panels for a while yet! I was also pleasantly surprised by the bonus story and concept artwork at the end- I love behind-the-scenes materials and was very happy to see how the characters and style used to be and developed and how they changed over time. I fully recommend giving this series a read!

[Jack D · Rating 5 out of 5]

This comic is one of my favorite adaptations of multiple classic books I have ever seen! Going from Jekyll and Hyde to Frankenstein, invisible man and others is simply so delightful! The different takes on the story and exploration of these characters is very interesting to read, from volume one each chapter keeps adding more to the story, extending the protagonist's complexity and the tension building up to keeping you reading, is amazing!
Talking about the art there's no words to describe how much I visually love this, the designs are unique, the colors are vibrant and the backgrounds are breathtaking, It makes you feel like you're in the story or watching an animated show! I can't wait to see how this story ends and have the collection of the three volumes, great work here!

[Tina Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been anxiously waiting for volume two of this amazing graphic novel series to drop ever since reading the huge cliff hanger at the end of the first book, and it did not disappoint. The author's new, fresh take on the characters of fantasy and sci-fi who are so well known to so many is truly astounding. I absolutely love the twists in the Jekyll and Hyde character as well as Frankenstein, as well as the mix of sci-fi and fantasy in these beautifully drawn books. The mental health battles of the main character are a wonderful inclusion, while the story just moves so swiftly. The inclusivity of the characters is just the cherry on the top.
Highly Recommend !

[Daryn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time the Jekyll and Hyde narrative is used as a metaphor for the repression of LGBT+ identities an angel gets its wings. Holy shit this volume was just as good, if not better than the last. The humor, heart, and all around action of this novel had me seated from beginning to end. As soon as I finished this volume and raced over to the webtoon to get the full spoilers because the cliffhanger on the end of this novel is INSANE.

Also just love the art style in general, the different color palette choices for Jekyll/Hyde's words and thoughts always is such a nice touch.

S.H. Cotugno the icon that you are...will be seated for the weekly updates from now on.

[Lex · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed volume one so much I sat and read volume two all in one go lmao. Just as delightful as the first and even queerer. Jekyll and Hyde are such fun characters, love a man who internalized homophobia's himself so hard he concocts a dangerous potion to get rid of all his perceived short-comings and instead creates a little man who acts like the world's most annoying bisexual millennial high schooler. Chuunibyou Mr. Hyde. Oh I also liked the bonus content at the end of both volumes, with the extra stories and character discussions. Thank goodness volume three releases soon!!

[Anonymous Ghost · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got this book for Christmas and read it all in one sitting before bed, and..... I have way too many thoughts running through my head!

1) I think it's safe to say this is a great continuation of volume one [which I read a couple of years ago as a senior in highschool]

2) This version of Hyde is the definition of "I love you because you're a sassy little chaos gremlin, but you also annoy me to death" and I think that's a perfect way to describe him

3) Gotta love tragic yaoi

4) That ending... DEAR GOD THAT ENDING-

I need to read volume three NOW!!!!

[Kinsley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Though I haven't read the physical copy, I've been following the webcomic for quite a while. This is easily my favorite webcomic and I'd recommend it to anyone, especially if you enjoy gothic horror and/or Victorian sci-fi. I can't wait to get my hands on the physical version so I can read the bonus story!

I genuinely think at this point Sage could write and illustrate a phonebook and I'd read it happily. I'd give it 10 stars if I could.

[Abby W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is extremely entertaining and an amazing continuation to the first one! The panels are all brightly colored and eye catching, the conflict involving Frankenstein, as well as Jekyll’s personal issues all meld together well and makes the comic not feel bloated. The side story was also extremely entertaining. I definitely recommend this book, as well as joining the community surrounding it.

[Jay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely amazing. I am very interested in the Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, and finding this graphic novel was just chefs kiss. The story is very interesting, it also includes different stories, like Frankenstein. The characters make it easy to become your favorites too!
I love the representation in the book too, they showcase different bodyshapes, races and sexualities. If you love Dr J. & Mr H. then i would definitely recommend this.

[Chris Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series is what had gotten me into reading books that some of the characters are based off of, (ex. The strange case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, the invisible man, & the island of Dr. Moreau) and adaptations of classic novels. This series understands that, like the original, Jekyll isn’t 100% good and Hyde isn’t 100% evil. Honestly, if someone came up to me and asked me to recomend an adaptation of a classical book, this series would be the first one I talk to them about.

[Rowen Deefynde · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so, I only found out this comic existed after volume one came out, but ever since I’ve read it (and getting up to date via the webcomic) I’ve been OBSESSED. Not ONLY is the art absolutely incredible, but the story, characters, and universe built are all so unique, amazing and genuinely compelling. I wish I could give it more than five stars. Good reads please let me give it more than five stars because it’s AMAZING.