Monster: A Graphic Novel
Monster Series
What’s inside...
A stunning black-and-white graphic novel adaptation of Walter Dean Myers's Michael L. Printz Award winner and New York Times bestseller Monster, adapted by Guy Sims and illustrated by Dawud Anyabwile. Monster is a multi-award-winning, provocative coming-of-age story about Steve Harmon, a teenager awaiting trial for a murder and robbery. As Steve acclimates to juvenile detention and goes to trial, he envisions the ordeal as a movie. Monster was the first-ever Michael L. Printz Award recipient, an ALA Best Book, a Coretta Scott King Honor selection, and a National Book Award finalist. Now Monster has been adapted into a graphic novel by Guy Sims, with stunning black-and-white art from Dawud Anyabwile, Guy's brother. Fans of Monster and of the work of Walter Dean Myers—and even kids who think they don't like to read—will devour this graphic adaptation.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
13-17
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Steve Harmon
Kathy O'brien
Sandra Petrocelli
Osvaldo Cruz
Richard 'bobo' Evans
Asa Briggs
James King
Discussion points
How do you think Steve felt when he was facing his trial, and why?
What do you think makes someone a 'monster' and can people be misjudged by their appearances?
How do the illustrations help to tell the story and convey emotions?
What have you learned about justice and fairness from Steve’s experiences?
How can we support someone who is going through a tough time, like Steve?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by sharing your own impressions of the book, encouraging an open and honest exchange of thoughts.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider the feelings and perspectives of different characters, especially Steve.
Discuss the visual elements of the graphic novel and ask how these enhance the storytelling or alter their perception of the narrative.
Highlight the importance of understanding and fairness, and relate these themes to real-life situations your child might encounter.
Reinforce that it's okay to have mixed feelings about a story's events or characters, and that grappling with these complex emotions is part of the reading experience.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and confronting stereotypes
Explanation: In 'Monster: A Graphic Novel,' the protagonist navigates the challenges of being wrongfully accused, providing insight into the impact of stereotypes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of not judging others based on superficial traits or assumptions, promoting empathy and fairness in their interactions.
Example Lesson: The importance of personal responsibility
Explanation: The main character's journey highlights the consequences of one's choices and the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to be accountable for their choices and understand how their actions affect others, fostering a sense of responsibility.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of adversity
Explanation: As the protagonist deals with legal battles and personal struggles, the theme of resilience emerges, showing how perseverance can lead to overcoming challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this understanding by developing persistence and resilience when facing their own challenges, whether in school or in personal situations.
Example Lesson: The value of truth
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes the significance of honesty and the search for truth in complex situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the importance of honesty in building trust and integrity in relationships and decisions.
Example Lesson: Empathy towards others
Explanation: By exploring the psychological and emotional dimensions of the characters, the book teaches readers to consider the feelings and perspectives of others.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in a child’s everyday interactions, encouraging them to be more understanding and supportive of peers and family members.