pyrajane’s review #39: A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness, Illustrated by Jim Kay, Inspired by Siobhan Dowd
How do you grieve for something that isn’t over? If you acknowledge your fears, does that mean you’re giving permission for the end to happen?
Thirteen year old Conor has been having nightmares. 12:07 on the dot. Wide awake, trying not to scream, wishing he had someone to talk to. He’s been alone since everyone found out his mom has cancer. The kids at school figured out that the best way to deal with their own unease is to ignore him. The bullies know he won’t fight back or tattle, so he spends his school time invisible and bloodied. His only friend betrayed him and he can’t look at her without feeling angry, and he doesn’t want to feel anger because that reminds him of the dreams. Reminds him of the monster.
But then a different monster appears. Huge, reaching branches. Roots that could crush his house in a moment. A gaping maw that can swallow him whole.
But he doesn’t care. He’s not even afraid.
This isn’t the real monster. It’s not his monster.
But why is it here and why does it insist that Conor has a story to tell?
Read the rest over on my blog. This book is beautiful, the artwork is amazing, and you’re going to need tissues to mop up tears. I loved it.
