Poor Things is not a true story in the sense that it’s based on real events or real people. It’s a work of fiction, though it feels real in the way it explores universal themes like identity, transformation, and the human experience. The story about Bella Baxter, who is resurrected by a scientist, is entirely a product of Alasdair Gray’s imagination. However, there’s a truth to the emotions and struggles the characters go through. The way Bella grapples with who she is, how she learns to navigate the world around her, and how she grows—those are very human experiences. While the events themselves are fantastical and surreal, the underlying questions the book raises about life, love, freedom, and self-discovery feel deeply real and relatable. In a way, the beauty of Poor Things is that even though it’s not true in a literal sense, it speaks to truths we all face in our own lives. It’s that blend of fiction and truth that makes the story so powerful—it might not be true to history, but it certainly captures something about what it means to be alive.
Home » My Bookshelf » Poor Things book
My Book Recommendation
Poor Things
Buy this book here, and contribute to girls’ education worldwide (learn more):
Poor Things Summary
Poor Things Summary
Before Yorgos Lanthimos adapted it into a movie, Poor Things was an acclaimed 1992 novel by Alasdair Gray. This novel was set in Victorian Scotland and follows the story of Bella Baxter, a young woman with a troubled past who is resurrected by an eccentric surgeon named Archibald McCandless using the brain of her deceased husband, Godwin. As Bella navigates her new life, she becomes entangled in a web of manipulation, power struggles, and societal expectations. After reading this novel my initial thought was: what did I just read? Among many things, the novel explores themes of identity, gender dynamics, and the consequences of scientific experimentation, all while offering a satirical commentary on Victorian society.
For more book recommendations, subscribe to my newsletter.
Poor Things Genre: Fiction
Poor Things in numbers
Poor Things is now on my list of favourite books. Here are more details about the book:
Book Length
Year of release
ISBN
Poor Things music
22 Songs from the movie:
Poor Things book review
Coming Soon
Frequently
Asked Questions
What is the premise of Poor Things?
Poor Things is a novel written by Scottish author Alasdair Gray, first published in 1992. The story is set in late 19th-century Scotland and centers on the character of Bella Baxter, a young woman who is initially found dead in the Firth of Clyde. However, due to the eccentric Dr. Archibald McCandless she is brought back to life through a combination of surgery and the use of electricity to stimulate muscle movement.
However, Bella, now resurrected and renamed Bella Caledonia, is unaware of her early life and begins a new existence under the care of Dr. McCandless. As the story unfolds, she becomes entangled in a web of political intrigue, social commentary, and personal drama. The novel explores themes such as identity, power dynamics, and the nature of humanity. The premise of the novel revolves around a narrative that blends elements of science fiction, social satire, and metafiction.
One of the central themes of Poor Things is the role of science and technology in shaping human lives and society, as well as the ethical implications of scientific experimentation. Additionally, the novel incorporates elements of satire, humor, and literary pastiche, making it a rich and complex work that defies easy categorization.
How to watch Poor Things (instead of reading it)?
While Poor Things started with a book, the story was also shot on film and so it’s adapted into a so-called absurdist comedy movie. Poor Things is directed by Yorgos Lanthimos and produced by Emma Stone. I truly loved watching it at a cinema in Amsterdam. It’s also available to watch online, starting Feb. 27 to buy or rent digitally at Apple TV, Prime Video, and other video-on-demand platforms. It will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on March 12.
What is the plot of Poor Things?
The plot of Poor Things revolves around the central character, Bella Baxter, who is found dead in the Firth of Clyde in late 19th-century Scotland. She is brought back to life by the eccentric surgeon Dr. Archibald McCandless using surgery and galvanism. He renames her Bella Caledonia and presents her to society as his ward.
As Bella Caledonia navigates her new life, she becomes entangled in a complex web of relationships and events. She marries Godwin Baxter, a wealthy industrialist who is unaware of her past, and the couple travels to Egypt for their honeymoon. In Egypt, Bella encounters a former lover, Mosey, who reveals her true identity and the circumstances surrounding her ‘death’.
Upon returning to Scotland, Bella finds herself torn between her past and present, her feelings for McCandless and Godwin, and the political and social currents of the time. The narrative delves into themes of identity, power dynamics, and the consequences of scientific experimentation.
Throughout the novel, Alasdair Gray employs various narrative techniques, including metafictional elements and satirical commentary, to explore these themes and create a richly layered story. Ultimately, Poor Things is a tale of love, betrayal, and self-discovery set against the backdrop of Victorian Scotland.
Why is it called Poor Things?
Why is it called Poor Things? The title Poor Things is a beautiful, thought-provoking choice for the film. At first, it might seem like it’s about the characters’ suffering, but I think it carries a deeper message about empathy and connection. Bella Baxter, the main character, is brought back to life and has to find her way in a world that doesn’t quite know what to do with her. In her journey, we see how both humans and animals are treated as “things,” dehumanized or discarded.
The title feels like a gentle reminder that we are all, in some way, vulnerable. It speaks to the shared experience of suffering, whether it’s Bella or the animals who are subjected to cruel treatment. It evokes a sense of compassion, not just for people, but for all living beings. For me, it connects deeply with the values of kindness and respect that are at the heart of veganism — the idea that we should care for and protect those who cannot protect themselves, no matter their species.
In the end, Poor Things isn’t just about the characters on screen; it’s about us all, learning to treat each other with more understanding, empathy, and love. It’s a gentle call to reflect on how we see others and how we can make the world a little kinder.
What year does Poor Things take place?
Poor Things is a novel written by Scottish author Alasdair Gray, first published in 1992. The story is set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily in Glasgow, Scotland. The narrative unfolds during the Victorian era, particularly around the 1880s and 1890s.
Why do people like 'Poor Things'?
I think people are drawn to Poor Things because it taps into something real and raw about what it means to be human. The characters, like Bella, are “poor” in one way or another—not just in a financial sense, but in the way they’ve been broken, misunderstood, or even created anew. Yet there’s a beauty in their imperfections, something that feels very true to life. We all have our own struggles, our own parts that feel broken or lost, and Poor Things doesn’t shy away from showing those sides.
What’s so moving about it is that it shows how, even from the deepest vulnerability or brokenness, growth can happen. Bella is brought back to life in a way that’s far from perfect, but it’s through this messiness that she finds her strength and sense of self. I think that resonates because, in real life, we don’t always have neat, clean, or perfect stories. Life’s a bit chaotic, and often it’s the messy, unpolished parts that shape us the most.
At its heart, the book is about transformation. It’s about owning all parts of yourself—the good, the bad, and the broken—and finding freedom in that. It reminds us that we don’t have to be perfect to be valuable or to be loved. Sometimes, the things that feel “poor” or flawed are the ones that hold the most meaning and depth, and there’s something incredibly comforting and relatable about that.
But, of course, you should decide for yourself. If you pick up Poor Things, you’ll find your own way into its world, and you’ll feel whatever it stirs in you. Maybe it will speak to that place inside you that’s messy, imperfect, and trying to figure it all out, or maybe you’ll find something entirely different. And that’s the beauty of it—it’s a story that invites you to take it in and decide what it means for you.
What style of goth is Poor Things?
While Poor Things by Alasdair Gray is not a “gothic novel” in the traditional sense, it certainly draws on gothic tropes and aesthetics—particularly those of body horror, reanimation, and a deep interrogation of identity and the human condition. The novel’s dark humor, grotesque elements, and satirical examination of societal norms place it in a broader tradition of gothic, surreal, and absurdist literature. Its eccentric characters, explorations of the uncanny, and eerie atmosphere should appeal to those who enjoy gothic works that blend horror, humor, and philosophical questioning.
How many Oscars did "Poor Things" win?
As of January 2025, the film adaptation of Poor Things has won four Oscars at the 2024 Academy Awards. The film earned recognition for Best Costume Design, Best Make-up/Hairstyling, Best Actress, and Best Production Design. It’s been praised for its unique visual style, which reflects the distinctive, whimsical world of the story.
What time period is "poor things" set in?
Poor Things is set in the late 19th century, around the 1880s and 1890s, a time when science, social change, and Victorian norms were beginning to stir in fascinating, sometimes unsettling ways. The novel’s world is richly layered, with elements of gothic mystery and quirky humor, but it also draws deeply on the ideas and atmosphere of that era—ideas about life, science, and morality that were evolving quickly. There’s a feeling of a world on the cusp of change, and through its characters, the story captures that beautifully, all while being delightfully strange and engaging.
Is 'Poor Things' in black and white?
Lanthimos, known for his distinct filmmaking style, brings a fresh twist to the story, making it visually stunning and quirky, much like the book itself. The movie is set to capture the novel’s strange, gothic essence, but with the unique cinematic lens that Lanthimos is known for—think odd, dark humor and a surreal, almost dreamlike atmosphere. Emma Stone stars as Bella Baxter, and her performance is already getting a lot of praise. She brings a lot of depth to the character, capturing Bella’s innocence, curiosity, and eventual strength as she navigates her complex and unusual life. As for the film’s look, it seems like it will still have that offbeat, eccentric vibe that’s so central to the novel. You can expect a visual palette that’s rich in contrast, with bold and striking imagery—perhaps echoing the stark black-and-white illustrations from the book, but now brought to life in full color. It looks like the movie will play with the themes of identity, resurrection, and freedom, just like the book does, but in a way that will feel fresh and surprising for those familiar with the novel.
It’s one of those adaptations that, I think, will make you reflect on the original story while also giving you something new to enjoy. If you’ve read the book, the movie will likely feel like a fascinating companion to it, with Lanthimos adding his own creative spin to the wild, emotional journey that Bella embarks on.
What is the so-called 'Poor Things controversy' about?
Why is Poor Things controversial? Poor Things is controversial for a few reasons, but I think at its core, it’s because the book doesn’t shy away from pushing boundaries and challenging expectations. It dives deep into topics like identity, power, and the body in ways that can be uncomfortable. The character of Bella, for example, is brought back to life in a strange, almost Frankenstein-like way, and that already raises questions about humanity and what makes us truly “alive.” The relationships in the book—especially Bella’s, which are unconventional—also stretch beyond typical norms, stirring up ideas about freedom, autonomy, and what it means to be in control of your own life.
There’s a lot of dark humor and elements of satire that challenge society’s ideas about morality and propriety. Gray uses these themes to explore the complexities of human nature, often with a sense of playfulness that can be unsettling for some readers. The book isn’t afraid to be a little strange or provocative, and because of that, it can stir up strong reactions. For some, it’s a brilliant, thought-provoking piece of literature; for others, it’s too unconventional or unsettling.
But, in a way, that’s also part of what makes the book so compelling. It forces us to reflect on things we might normally shy away from or take for granted. It asks big questions about what it means to be human, to live freely, to experience love and loss—all through a lens that’s anything but ordinary. The controversy comes from how it disrupts our expectations of what a story should be, and for some, that’s a tough pill to swallow.
At the end of the day, though, Poor Things is one of those books that you’ll have to experience for yourself to understand why it sparks so much debate. It’s not just about being controversial—it’s about challenging what we think we know, and sometimes, that’s exactly what great art should do.
Keywords: poor things controversy, poor things sexuality, poor things movie controversy, and poor things backlash.
Who wrote 'Poor Things'?
Poor Things was written by Alasdair Gray, a Scottish writer and artist who had a remarkable way of blending the fantastical with the deeply human. His work often challenges the reader to think outside the box, and Poor Things is no exception. It’s a bit of a wild ride, mixing dark humor, gothic elements, and sharp social commentary. Gray had a unique style, both in his writing and his illustrations, which gives his books a distinct feel—almost like you’re stepping into a world that’s familiar but a little offbeat at the same time.
He was someone who didn’t shy away from exploring complex themes like identity, power, and the nature of life itself, which is exactly what makes Poor Things so special. Gray’s ability to tell a story that’s thought-provoking, humorous, and deeply quirky all at once is one of the reasons his work resonates with so many. If you decide to pick up Poor Things, you’re stepping into the mind of a writer who’s unapologetically original and unafraid to ask big, messy questions about what it means to be human.
What genre is 'Poor Things'?
Poor Things is one of those books that’s a little hard to label because it blends so many different styles and genres, but that’s what makes it so special. At its heart, you could say it’s gothic fiction. There’s this eerie, almost spooky vibe to it, with the whole resurrection storyline and the strange, dark events that unfold. It has that haunting atmosphere, like old gothic novels where the lines between life and death get all blurred.
But it’s also got a lot of satire. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, and there’s a lot of sharp, witty humor that pokes fun at society—how people act, how we create rules and expectations, and what it means to be “proper” or “normal.” It’s like the book is both making you laugh and making you think, often at the same time.
You can also think of it as literary fiction—the writing is thoughtful, rich, and layered. The themes are deep and philosophical, especially around identity and what it means to be human. Bella’s journey of self-discovery, freedom, and transformation is something you can really get lost in.
And yes, there’s a little fantasy in there too, with Bella’s resurrection and the way the story sometimes feels more dreamlike than real life. It’s the kind of book where reality and imagination mix in a way that keeps you on your toes, making you wonder what’s possible and what’s just a story.
So, it’s a blend of gothic, satire, literary fiction, and a touch of fantasy. That mix makes Poor Things feel like a rich, one-of-a-kind read—something that keeps you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.
Is 'Poor Things' a true story?
What is the timeline of 'Poor Things'?
The timeline in Poor Things is a bit of a winding journey, and I think that’s part of the charm of the book—it doesn’t follow a straightforward path. Instead, it moves between different times and perspectives, creating a world that feels layered and complex, just like life itself.
It starts in late 19th century Edinburgh, where Bella Baxter, the main character, is brought back to life by a scientist named Dr. McCandless. Her resurrection is a bit of a mystery at first, and Bella doesn’t remember much about her past. It’s almost like she’s been given a fresh start, but with all these gaps that need to be filled in. This is the moment when her journey really begins.
From there, the story shifts between different moments in Bella’s life as she tries to figure out who she is. She spends time with Dr. McCandless, but it’s when she crosses paths with Duncan Wedderburn, a lawyer who becomes quite important to her, that the narrative really takes off. Their relationship—and the complicated love triangle that develops—pushes Bella into grappling with who she wants to be and what she’s capable of.
As Bella grows and learns more about herself, the timeline isn’t always in a neat order. Sometimes it jumps to different moments of her life, with pieces of her past resurfacing. This keeps things interesting and, in a way, mirrors how our own stories are often pieced together over time. We don’t always get the full picture at once; it’s more like we slowly discover who we are through experience and reflection.
By the end, Bella has made some big decisions about her life, and the timeline comes to a close in a way that feels true to her messy, imperfect journey. It’s not the kind of book that wraps everything up in a neat little bow, and I think that’s why it feels so real. The timeline shifts and stretches, just like life does—full of surprises, questions, and growth.
In a way, Poor Things is like looking at life from different angles, showing us that even though we don’t always know where we’re going, it’s the twists and turns that help us become who we’re meant to be.
Who crafted the 'Poor Things book illustrations'?
William Strang was a Scottish artist, best known for his work as an etcher and printmaker during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He had a distinctive style, often focusing on portraiture, figures, and sometimes landscapes, capturing the essence of his subjects with fine detail and a certain darkness or intensity. Strang’s works were often characterized by their depth and rich textures, and he had a knack for creating images that felt both real and emotionally evocative.
Interestingly, Strang was highly regarded for his etchings, which were often produced with a remarkable level of skill and subtlety. His work is said to have captured a kind of quiet, introspective quality, making his subjects feel very human and layered. Strang’s influence was notable in the British art world, and he even served as president of the Royal Society of Painter-Etchers and Engravers for a time.
While he’s not as widely known today as some of his contemporaries, William Strang’s contributions to art, particularly in printmaking, had a lasting impact on the way visual art captured human emotion and experience. If you look at his works, you’ll notice a certain depth and complexity in his subjects—something that would resonate with anyone who appreciates art that goes beyond the surface.
Reviews from Insiders:
No reviews from this community yet. Leave your review today!
Leave your review:
Join my Newsletter
For more hand-picked book recommendations, subscribe, and get my book specials.
