A Monster Calls Book Summary
Inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd
TL;DR
A Monster Calls is a touching story about a boy grappling with his mother's illness and a monstrous visitor who demands the truth from him.
What is A Monster Calls about
A Monster Calls, inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd and written by Patrick Ness, follows thirteen-year-old Conor as he struggles with his mother's terminal illness. Conor is visited by a monster at seven minutes past midnight, but it isn't the one from his recurring nightmares. This monster is ancient, wild, and demands that Conor face the truth about his fears and feelings. The novel blends elements of fantasy and reality to explore themes of grief, loss, and the complexities of human emotion.
A Monster Calls 7 Key Takeaways
Conor's Nightmare
Conor has a recurring nightmare involving a terrifying monster, which symbolizes his fear and helplessness regarding his mother's illness. This nightmare sets the stage for the emotional journey he will undergo.
The Monster's Arrival
At seven minutes past midnight, Conor encounters a different monster outside his window. This ancient, wild creature offers to tell Conor three stories in exchange for Conor's own truth.
The First Story
The monster's first tale is about a prince who commits a heinous act, revealing that not all monsters are evil and that people and events are complex and multifaceted.
The Second Story
The monster's second story involves a greedy apothecary and a parson, illustrating the consequences of hypocrisy and the importance of integrity.
The Third Story
The third story tells of an invisible man who becomes visible due to his desire to be seen, highlighting the human need for acknowledgment and understanding.
Conor's Truth
The climax occurs when Conor finally reveals his truth to the monster—that deep down, he wishes his mother's suffering would end, even if it means losing her. This confession helps Conor confront his guilt and grief.
The Resolution
In the end, Conor finds a sense of peace and acceptance. The monster's visits have helped him process his emotions and prepare for the inevitable loss of his mother.
Top A Monster Calls Quotes
- 'Stories are wild creatures, the monster said. When you let them loose, who knows what havoc they might wreak?'
- 'You do not write your life with words, the monster said. You write it with actions. What you think is not important. It is only important what you do.'
- 'There is not always a good guy. Nor is there always a bad one. Most people are somewhere in between.'
Who should read A Monster Calls?
This book is ideal for young adults and adults who are looking for a deeply emotional and thought-provoking read. It will particularly resonate with those who have experienced loss or are grappling with difficult emotions.
A Monster Calls Best Reviews
- The New York Times describes 'A Monster Calls' as 'a painful, but ultimately uplifting, story about loss and the importance of accepting what cannot be changed.'
- The Guardian praises the book for its 'brilliantly evocative prose and stunning illustrations, making it a powerful read for both young adults and adults alike.'
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A Monster Calls FAQs
What inspired 'A Monster Calls'?
'A Monster Calls' was inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd, who passed away before she could write it. Patrick Ness completed the novel, blending Dowd's concept with his own narrative style.
What is the main theme of 'A Monster Calls'?
The main theme of 'A Monster Calls' is coming to terms with grief and the necessity of facing difficult truths to achieve emotional healing.
Is 'A Monster Calls' suitable for all ages?
'A Monster Calls' is targeted primarily at young adults, but its profound themes and emotional depth make it a compelling read for adults as well.