REVIEW || A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

How the hell am I meant to review this book?

*

In this short, but powerfully moving novel from Patrick Ness, we follow Conor, who has all the usual teenage struggles alongside two other things. His mums illness, and a nightmare that visits him night after night. Until one night, there's a looming shadow in this nightmare. And it doesn't go away.

*

This book had me in tears. I honestly don't know how anyone can read this and NOT cry. I genuinely believed Conor's views and thoughts, so much so I was rooting for him from start to finish. But it just wasn't meant to be.

I loved the representation that the character of the monster brought to the novel. It had this big looming scary feeling to Conor, but as time passed, he got used to it and allowed to become a friend almost. And in true friend fashion, it allowed him to do absolutely anything, from trashing his grandmas pristine and precious living room, to finally beating the crap out of his bully (which was totally justified).

I don't want to say too much in fear of spoil on the experience. I went in not knowing much - literally just what I had read on the back of the book, and in this instance, that is exactly how it should be.

A phenomenal piece of writing from Ness, so thought provoking, thoughtful and eye-opening. This has definitely willed me into reading more by him, and is incredibly deserving of the full five star rating I'm giving it.