Monster+(EM)

Reviewed By: Eric May Mr. Mertz  7/8 B E.L.A.
 * Monster By: Walter Dean Myers **

The story //Monster// is about a sixteen-year-old boy named Steve Harmon (aka Monster). He gets his nickname “Monster” from the prosecutor who called him that during his trial. It takes place in a New York state courtroom and jail. Steve Harmon is currently in jail for felony murder. He is accused of shooting and killing Mr. Nesbitt, the owner of a drugstore. The story is written as if Steve Harmon was filming the whole event. It is written like a screenplay and through Steve’s journal entries. The ambiguity of the story contributes to the rising action because during the story you are not sure whether or not he was really associated with the murder and robbery or if he happened to be in the wrong place during the wrong time. One of the most suspenseful moments in the story was when they finally got the verdict whether he would go to prison or not. If convicted he could face a 25 years to life sentence. The story’s themes are truth and justice. As the reader follows Steve’s story, you do not know whether to feel sorry for a wrongly accused Steve or think that he deserves to go to jail.

I would recommend this book. The story is very suspenseful, has a lot of action, and is unpredictable. Many of the chapters have diary entries, which gives you his point of view on the whole ordeal which makes it easier to understand how he feels and what he is going through. I also learned about what can go on in jail and learned about the trial process. I believe you should read this book.

review by Student's Name (Your first name and last initial are fine.)
 * //Sample Book Title//**, Author

Write a paragraph or two about the exposition and conflict of your book, which should include some pieces of rising action. Do **not** give away the climax or resolution.

Next is a paragraph saying if you recommend the book or not and explaining why. You will obviously write more than this.

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