One-line Summary:

A Monster Calls is a heart-wrenching tale about a young boy named Conor who is visited by a monster that helps him confront his deepest fears and emotions.

The Monster’s Visits:

Conor O’Malley, a 13-year-old boy, is struggling with his mother’s terminal illness, school bullies, and a recurring nightmare. One night, at precisely 12:07 a.m., a monster appears outside his window. The monster, an ancient yew tree, tells Conor that he will share three stories with him, and in return, Conor must share his own truth. Through these stories, the monster helps Conor confront his emotions and face the truth about his mother’s condition.

The Power of Stories:

As the monster shares his stories, Conor begins to realize the power of storytelling. Each tale challenges Conor’s preconceived notions of good and evil, forcing him to question his own actions and beliefs. Through these stories, Conor learns that life is not always black and white, and that people are capable of both good and bad deeds. The stories also serve as metaphors for Conor’s own struggles, helping him gain a new perspective on his own situation.

The Complexity of Grief:

A Monster Calls delves deep into the complex emotions associated with grief. Conor’s mother’s illness has left him feeling isolated and overwhelmed. He struggles with guilt, anger, and a desperate desire for things to return to normal. The monster acts as a catalyst for Conor to confront these emotions head-on. As Conor’s journey progresses, he realizes that it is okay to feel angry, to feel scared, and to feel sad. Through this process, Conor learns that grief is not something to be overcome, but rather something to be embraced and integrated into his life.

Key Takeaways:

• Grief is a complex and individual experience that cannot be rushed or ignored.
• Stories have the power to heal and provide a new perspective on life’s challenges.
• It is important to confront and express our emotions, even the difficult ones.
• Accepting the truth, no matter how painful, is an essential part of the healing process.
• Support and understanding from others can make a significant difference in coping with grief.

“You do not write your life with words…You write it with actions. What you think is not important. It is only important what you do.”

In conclusion, A Monster Calls is a poignant and emotionally charged story that explores the depths of grief and the power of storytelling. Through the monster’s visits, Conor learns to confront his fears, express his emotions, and accept the truth about his mother’s illness. This book serves as a reminder that grief is a natural part of life and that it is through facing our emotions that we can find healing and strength.