Monster

Monster, written by Walter Dean Myers, was published by Harper Collins Publishers in the year 1999. The book revolves around a 16-year-old African-American boy named Steve Harmon, who lives in a seedy neighborhood in Harlem. James King, a 22-year-old, convinces Steve to help him rob a drugstore. They botch the robbery, killing the clerk, and end up on trial. Steve gets charged as an accomplice and arrested. Monster is formatted unlike most books; it is in the style of a screenplay written by Steve. The themes are reminiscent of an episode of Law & Order, the lion's share of the action occurring within the confines of the courtroom. Steve Harmon constantly reflects on his identity, saying that people now define him as a "monster." His redemption comes through his passion for writing and the loving support of his family. Because the book touches on the issue of prison rape and violence, it would be suitable for eighth grade and up. It includes limited law jargon, but would be very fun to teach as an alternative to a play. Setting up scenes would be very fun for students.