Monster

Monster

Specifics

APA Citation: Myers, W. D., & Myers, C. (1999). Monster. New York, NY: HarperCollins.

Meets EDU 333 Blog Requirement For: Diverse Protagonist, Engage Middle School Readers

Lexile Level: 670L

Audience: Mature Middle School Readers

Summary

Steve Harmon is on trial for murder when a drug store robbery goes wrong. As Steve goes through this difficult time, writes about his experience in a screenplay format. Readers watch Steve go through a trial that will change his life forever, also wondering if he is innocent or guilty. 

Evaluation

This book would be a great read for middle school readers because not only does it bring up an important topic of racial discrimination, it also is written in a way that is different from most other books. I believe this could introduce a new type of reading to some students, which might be exactly what they need to discover reading is great. 

The author lets the reader decide for themselves if they think Steve is innocent or guilty, giving us just enough information for us to question it. He is a likable and relatable character, so most will want to assume he is innocent. 

The author does not shy away from detail, and wants the reader to truly see what Steve is experiencing during this time. The book deals with a lot of social justice themes like crime, race, and truth. Athough there are stereotypes in this book, the author does this on purpose to make a point against these stereotypes.

Mini Lesson

We might have a class discussion about a time where the kids were accused of something that they didn't do and how it made them feel.