In present-day England, Conor O'Malley is visited by a monster, a yew tree that transforms into a humanoid, while he struggles to cope with his mother's illness and bullying at school. The monster tells Conor three tales, and in return, Conor must share his haunting nightmare. As his mother’s condition deteriorates, the monster helps Conor confront his deepest fears and emotions. The novel addresses themes of terminal illness, grief, and loss.

Patrick Ness's A Monster Calls receives acclaim for its poignant exploration of grief and powerful narrative, enhanced by Jim Kay's evocative illustrations. However, some critics note that the story's intensity and mature themes might overwhelm younger readers. Overall, it is praised for its emotional depth and artistic execution, resonating strongly with its audience.

Fans of emotional, thought-provoking stories like The Fault in Our Stars and Bridge to Terabithia will be drawn to A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness. This book appeals to readers who appreciate deeply moving narratives about complex family dynamics, grief, and courage, enriched by dark fantasy elements.

Emotional / Dark / Melancholic / Mysterious / Bittersweet

- A Monster Calls originated from an idea by author Siobhan Dowd, who passed away before she could complete it, and Patrick Ness was asked to bring her concept to life, deftly intertwining his storytelling with her vision.
- The book, illustrated by Jim Kay, won both the Carnegie Medal for outstanding youth literature and the Greenaway Medal for illustration in 2012, making it the first book to win both prestigious British awards in the same year.
- A critically acclaimed film adaptation of A Monster Calls was released in 2016, directed by J.A. Bayona and starring actors such as Lewis MacDougall, Sigourney Weaver, and Liam Neeson as the voice of the Monster.

**Conor O'Malley**  
A 13-year-old English boy who lives with his mother and deals with a recurring nightmare, showing fierce independence while trying to navigate his challenging life circumstances.

**Conor's Mum**  
A young, divorced mother who shares a close and loving relationship with Conor while coping with a significant illness, often trying to protect him from its harsh realities.

**The Monster**  
A mysterious and ancient creature appearing to Conor, often taking the form of a giant yew tree, that guides him through his internal struggles with its stories and presence.

**Grandma**  
Conor's practical and straightforward grandmother who steps in to help during a family crisis, demonstrating love and care in her own unique way despite their initial friction.

Patrick Ness

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