MONSTER

Myers, W. D., & Myers, C. (1999). Monster. New York: HarperCollins.

This multi-award novel unfolds in the most unconventional way. Myers novel starts with an undated journal entry but he quickly changes the presentation of the story to that of a script. The script is jotted down by Steve Harmon, the 16-year-old protagonist, in a notebook that accompanies him to his cell and to his court hearings.

Harmon faithfully documents his trial and it is through the witness’ testimonies that we learn about the crime that he is accused of participating in. Sporadically the script moves out of the courtroom and jailhouse to flashbacks of Steve’s past. This allows the reader to see a more complete picture of our character and the circumstances that lead him to be on trial for the murder of a respected shop keeper.

One major theme found in the story is that of betrayal. One by one each of the men on trial accuses the others of being the reason for Mr. Nesbitt’s death. There is also the betrayal Steve’s father feels. Mr. Harmon is a hardworking man who tried to set a good example for his son, and instead of respecting this and aiming to be like his father Steve ends up just being another inner city statistic.

In the end Steve is found not guilty, in part because of his film club teacher Mr. Sawicki who the defense uses as a character witness. When asked his opinion of Steve, Sawicki answers, “I think he’s an outstanding young man He is talented, bright and compassionate.”

This would be a great read to share with reluctant readers because it is fast paced and does not drown them into many details. An added bonus would be for the teacher to play the audiobook, because it is fully casted and makes for a compelling reading experience.