Ness, P. (2011). A Monster Calls. United Kingdom. Turtleback Books
[social realism]
I get to read a great deal of fabulous writing in my job. I am a
very, very lucky lady!
This is NOT a book which I would have normally chosen, and quite
frankly it is not a comfortable read at times. BUT, it is a stunning
story with an amazing 'feel' (for want of a better word.)
Not only is the story a stunning one, but the story behind the story is
also worth mentioning. The idea for the book came from renowned
young adult author, Siobhan Dowd, who died from cancer before she could write
her story. She passed the baton on to Patrick Ness (although they never
met) and he took her story and ran with it. He didn't want to use her
voice to write the story, but he DID want to honour her idea. I have no
idea whether he believes that he has succeeded in this, but he has certainly
created something unforgettable.
The story itself is based around 13 year old Conor, whose mother is
extremely unwell with an undisclosed illness. In his dreams he meets a
monster, and this monster is after one thing, and one thing only... the truth.
Conor is clearly struggling with his mother's illness, as well as how
others around him are now reacting to him... his estranged father, his bossy
grandmother and his school mates.
This book is definitely one for older readers - those who are increasingly independent and increasingly searching for answers themselves. These readers need to read about real issues, which are dealt with honestly and in an unpatronising manner - and this book certainly does that.
As I said before, this is not always an easy read, but it is a
thought-provoking one. I would not recommend it to all young adults, but
it certainly is a catalyst for discussion and thought.
Mention should also be made of the stunning, yet disturbing,
illustrations by Jim Kay. They capture the essence of the book with their
dark, brooding atmosphere. Stunning.
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