My Favorite Thing Is Monsters by Emil Ferris has been praised for its stunning, meticulous artwork and original narrative style, blending diary entries with intricate illustrations. Reviewers commend its complex characters and rich storytelling. However, some note the dense format might be overwhelming. Overall, it's hailed as a unique achievement in graphic novels.

A reader who would enjoy My Favorite Thing Is Monsters by Emil Ferris is likely a fan of graphic novels with deep, intricate storytelling and visually arresting art. Comparable to fans of Maus by Art Spiegelman and Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi, these readers revel in complex narratives that blend personal history with cultural and social critique.

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters by Emil Ferris takes place in 1960s Chicago and follows 10-year-old Karen Reyes, who is captivated by art, monsters, and her family. After her neighbor Anka Silverberg is found dead, Karen suspects foul play and starts her own investigation while dealing with personal challenges, societal issues, and dark revelations. The novel addresses child abuse, trafficking, murder, and other violence.

Mysterious / Dark / Emotional / Gritty / Unnerving

- My Favorite Thing Is Monsters is the debut graphic novel of Emil Ferris, who began drawing it after recovering from West Nile Virus, which left her partially paralyzed at age 40.
- Despite early struggles to find a publisher, the novel was met with critical acclaim upon its release in 2017 and won numerous awards, including the prestigious Ignatz Award for Outstanding Graphic Novel.
- Emil Ferris drew inspiration from her childhood in 1960s Chicago, her love for horror films, and classic monster movies, which is evident in both the style and thematic elements of the graphic novel.

**Karen Reyes**  
Karen Reyes is a 10-year-old girl who is passionate about horror, art, and her family, experiencing a coming-of-age journey as she uncovers dark truths.

**Diego “Deeze” Reyes**  
Diego “Deeze” Reyes is Karen’s older brother, who has a dual nature of being both nurturing and volatile, greatly influencing Karen's love for art.

**Anka Silverberg**  
Anka Silverberg is a neighbor in Karen's apartment complex and becomes the center of a complex mystery that fuels Karen’s investigative journey.

**Karen’s Mother**  
Karen's mother is a strong and protective figure in Karen’s life who provides support and guidance amidst their struggles.

**Sam Silverberg**  
Sam Silverberg is a jazz drummer and Anka’s husband, whose grief and sorrow over her death are palpable.

Emil Ferris

Adult

Graphic Novel/Book

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore My Favorite Thing Is Monsters reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read My Favorite Thing Is Monsters | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore My Favorite Thing Is Monsters and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Summary and Study Guide

chapter

chapterType

section

Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Pages 1-99

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Pages 1-99 Summary & Analysis

Pages 100-222

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Pages 100-222 Summary & Analysis

Pages 223-356

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Pages 223-356 Summary & Analysis

Pages 357-410

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Pages 357-410 Summary & Analysis

character

Character Analysis

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Character Analysis

theme

Themes

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Themes

Symbols & Motifs

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Symbols & Motifs

quote

citation

Important Quotes

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Important Quotes

primaryCharacter

Essay Topics

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters Essay Topics

My Favorite Thing Is Monsters

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read My Favorite Thing Is Monsters?

Reading Age

Book Details