Title: Meddling Kids

Author: Tracy Canfield

Date of First Publication: 2015

Place of Publication: Daughters of Frankenstein: Lesbian Mad Scientists!

Type: Short story

Characters: No Character

Themes: MAD SCIENTIST/MONSTER; WOMEN WRITING MONSTERS

Critical Summary: A group of high school friends attempt to solve the mystery of a mad scientist at a theater. The team, which is called the Mystery Five, begin by conducting a paranormal investigation. Although they have yet to find a case where the evidence proves to lead to something greater, this special night at the theater will test their skills. This investigation might also establish them as something more than just a group of high school kids. In an attempt to regroup after splitting up into two groups, one of the groups finds a trail of clues that leads them to a tabby. This is no ordinary tabby; this tabby is the size of their Mystery SUV. After meeting the scientist behind the tabby—Professor Isotope—the fate of the Mystery Five lies in the hands of this mad scientist. The mad scientist (and her assistant) are ridiculous, as is the expected “reveal” at the end that the drive-in manager is the one behind the threats to himself.

Canfield’s approach to her story is heavily influenced from the pop culture ideas of Frankenstein rather than directly from Mary Shelley’s story: it is as if in Canfield’s story Frankenstein and the monster were being investigated by a very familiar team of teenage investigators developed in the 70’s, the one with the animal sidekick. This short story is meant to be taken light-heartedly, as the creation at the end leads to the discovery of the SUV-sized cat.

Administrative Notes:  Sabino Reyes, CSUF; Andrew Ruvalcaba (editing)