A Monster Calls

    A Monster Calls

    by Patrick Ness

    Ages 10-162011
    Middle Grade

    A powerful and emotionally complex story about thirteen-year-old Conor who is visited by a monster from an ancient yew tree while dealing with his mother's terminal cancer. The monster tells Conor three stories and demands a fourth truth from him, forcing the boy to confront his deepest fears about loss, anger, and letting go. Through this supernatural encounter, Conor learns to process his grief and guilt in a story that explores themes of family illness, emotional healing, and the complexity of human feelings during times of crisis.

    2011Published
    Genres: Fantasy, Young Adult

    Quick Theme Summary

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    Theme Presence Analysis

    Family, Friendship & Community
    Frequent
    Fantasy or Symbolic Storytelling
    Frequent
    Social or Historical Topics
    Moderate
    Diversity & Cultural Representation
    Minimal
    Gender Identity Topics
    None
    Romantic or Mature Themes
    None
    Sexual Orientation Topics
    None

    Theme indicators show observable presence levels only. They do not represent endorsement, recommendations, or value judgments. Hover over themes with notes for additional context.

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    About This Analysis

    This information is provided for transparency purposes only. Final reading decisions rest with parents and caregivers.