From the Bookshelf of Nothing But Reading Challenges…

A Monster Calls

Patrick Ness,

Jim Kay (Illustrator)

Start date: February 22, 2017

Finish date: February 28, 2017

Discussion: Books of the Month

Why we're reading this: February 2017 YA BOM
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What Members Thought

Aug 11, 2017 Lesa Divine rated it really liked it · review of another edition

Shelves: 2017, library, read-it, botm-selection

Connor a boy that feels guilty over something that's not under his control. He's been bullied in school, teachers let him get away with everything due that his mom is sick. With his friend he doesn't talk to anymore due she told his business. A monster comes to visit him. The monster tells Connor 3 stories only for Connor to tell the monster his story.
Great story, emotional rollercoaster. ...more

1 like · Like · see review

Nov 17, 2015 Andreea rated it really liked it

I was expecting a horror story, but what I got was a horror of the real world. This book was emotional and, although predictable, it had a great message throughout the book. It seemed like a children's book, with fairy tales even, only it's not (although I would totally read it to my kids if I had any).

I just finished it so my thoughts are all over the place, but I think I will write a proper review in the future.

It is sad, emotional and a great book with a message for anyone. Also, pretty rea ...more

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Jun 24, 2012 Kim Benouski rated it it was amazing

I never cried so thoroughly when reading a book. Every page I read through blurry eyes, and I spent the last 30 pages having to stop because of intense sobbing and the need for tissues.

This short and simple store about grief and letting go hit home more than all of the grieving books people gave me after losing my husband 2 1/2 years ago combined, and this wasn't even about spousal loss, but parental. Still, so much rang true in this, and the boy's pain broke my heart.

I don't know if I can rec ...more

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Jan 29, 2017 Erica rated it really liked it

I really enjoyed this book, which is really weird to say due to its subject matter. It's about a young boy trying to come to terms with the fate of his sick mother and the monster who has come to seeking the truth. It is a beautiful, though very sad, story. ...more

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Jan 22, 2012 Tfalcone rated it liked it

Heartwrenching tale about a boy's acceptance of his mother's death. ...more

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Oct 28, 2012 Lauren rated it it was amazing

Shelves: 2013-book-list, summer-2015, favorites, personal-library

You need to stop whatever you are doing right now and read this book. No description can do it justice; it's hard and ugly and beautiful and remarkable. Everyone should read this book, and THAT is the truth. ...more

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