Genre: Contemporary
Honors: Coretta Scott King Award/Honors, Michael Printz Award/Honor Book, YALSA Top Ten, ALA Notable/Best Books
Review: Monster is a powerful first-hand look into the mind of a young boy on trial for felony murder. The reader gets an intimate look into 17 year-old Steve Harmon's life as he records the events of his trial and those events leading up to his trial written as a film script. Steve is portrayed as a sensitive, creative young man from a good family and it is unclear if he is in fact guilty of the crime, though in his writings he does not take responsibility. The story provides a glimpse into the criminal justice system, especially from the eyes of a teenage boy.
Opinion: This is a well, written, creative, and important book. Myers creates a character that is well developed and real. Though we only get hints to know if Steve actually committed the crime, there are huge implications of his possible actions and it is important for teens to understand that sometimes there are life-altering consequences for bad choices.
Ideas: In the library display Monster along with other Walter Dean Myers books, including his autobiography. In class use several of the teacher guides posted online to promote meaningful discussion.
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