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Monster

(1999, Fiction - Mystery, Written by Walter Myers, Illustrated by Christopher Myers)
  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 13, age appropriate for kids over 15; suggested age 13.
  • Is it any good?

    5.0
  • Common Sense says

    Book about teen who may be a killer isn't for all.

Why We Rated This iffy for Ages 13–15

What to watch out for

  • Messages:

    Unclear whether the main character really participates in the crime and lies in court. Minor characters routinely break the law, hurt and intimidate other people.
  • Violence:

    Although the book describes nothing directly, violence pervades the story. People are beaten up, and a man is shot. The main character is terrified that he'll be sent to prison.
  • Sex:

    A fourteen-year old boy testifies that he's gotten a girl pregnant. Rape of prison inmates is implied.
  • Language:

    For all the book's realism, the profanity is infrequent and mild to moderate..
  • Consumerism:

    Not an issue.
  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Monster

Parents need to know that this book employs highly realistic writing, with both poor and proper grammar used appropriately for each character. Grainy photographs contribute to the realistic atmosphere. The movie script and courtroom realism teach both creativity and contemporary culture. Many characters commit crimes, but on the whole it's a compelling story full of suspense and skillful storytelling.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about whether 16-year-old Steve is guilty or not. Did Steve really shoot the convenience store owner, or was he merely at the wrong place at the wrong time? Will he go to jail just because he's black? If you were a member of the jury, what would your verdict be?

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Our Members Say

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  • What did you think about Monster?
  •  I think this book is

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See all 12 member reviews

Most Recent Reviews

  1. Teen Reviewer Age 13
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 5.0

    I love this book. I'm in 8th grade and read it as a class. Although it talks about robbing, smokin, and getting a girl pregnant does'nt mean very much. It shows the consequences of each of those things done. Monster has a few themes; Be true to yourself and Think about your tomorrows. This book is a lesson learn and that you shouldn't give in to peer pressure.

  2. I rate this title off for age 13 and give it 1.0
    My concerns are:
    • Excessive violence
    • Inappropriate sexual content
    • Negative role models

    Inappropriate for under 17!

    As a parent, I am so disappointed that my child's teacher assigned this book and now she will be ostricized because I will most definately NOT allow her to read this book. The author could have told the story minus the graphic sexual attacks and other violence. Why expose my child to those things at her age (13)? The book is shallow and without merit.

  3. Adult Reviewer
    Lives in Wisconsin
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 4.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Educational
    • Positive messages

    This story does deal with racism and a little bit of violence and sex, but it is very educational and interesting. Definitely a worth while read.

  4. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    I rate this title on for age 13 and give it 3.0
    • My highlights are:
    • Educational
    • Positive messages

    I love it:) It makes me realize da true world.

  5. Teen Reviewer Age 14
    Lives in New York
    I rate this title off for age 13 and give it 5.0

    this is an amazing bok i am thirteen and i lovedit

    ok im not a reader as a matter of fact i realy hate reading but i am an actor iv been in over than 100 plays and i love it because it is like a script so im use to it and i love that i read almost 200 pages in a matter of 40 minutes i loved it it was a little sexual so i think 13 is the starting age to read this book all in all i loved it

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