A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness is a tale about a 13-year-old boy named Conor O'Malley who is grappling with his mother's terminal illness. One night, he is visited by a monstrous tree-like creature that tells him three stories and demands that Conor tell a fourth, which must be his own truth. As Conor struggles with his fear, anger, and guilt, the monster helps him confront his deepest fears and emotions. Through these encounters, Conor learns to face his reality and accept the inevitable loss, ultimately finding a path to healing and understanding. The novel blends elements of fantasy and harsh reality, delivering a powerful message about grief, and acceptance.
The most compelling aspect was the exploration of grief through the eyes of a young boy. The monster's tales talk about human emotions and reveal truths that are both uncomfortable and necessary. The interplay between Conor's real-world struggles and the monster's stories creates a narrative that's very thought-provoking. I wasn’t disappointed throughout the book and was very happy with how the book unraveled. There were many points where the book could have derailed and gone wrong, but the author portrayed it perfectly. I would recommend A Monster Calls to anyone who enjoys stories that are emotionally powerful. It’s perfect for readers who appreciate a mix of fantasy and reality, and who want to explore the dark aspects of life.