Monster, Walter Dean Myers

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Monster, 1999, Walter Dean Myers

This book is definitely a change from the norm.  Written as a screenplay, Walter Dean Myers introduces us to a young adolescent that is on trial for felony murder, Steve Harmon.  Harmon’s lawyer Kathy O’Brien works to prove his innocence, as narrated in Harmon’s screenplay and in his personal journal entries that are scattered throughout the novel.  Harmon expresses his fear of both the outcome of his trial and his time in jail; as a young adult he experiences many things that other people his age have not.  His screenplay introduces readers to the courtroom and the processes that are followed in a trial, and to the many people that are involved in a case.  Additionally, it not only shows his own personal struggle with the trail, but also the struggle of those around him, especially that of his parents.  Myers presents his story in an interesting way that is easily read and should appeal to students.

There are many teachable aspects of this book.  First, it introduces students to the processes of the courtroom.  This presents students with levels of critical thinking, as the lawyers must do in the trial.  The lawyers must also consider audience when delivering their arguments, which is something that could be discussed with students.  Secondly, there is a great deal of film terms used in Harmon’s writing of the screenplay that present unique vocabulary for the students to learn.  It also gives them a model for a screenplay of their own, which could be an exciting writing activity for the class. 

I think that this story would be most appropriate for older students, probably eighth graders, due to the discussion of sexual harassment in prison and also for some foul language.  If students are mature enough to handle this, then I think that this book would be a great teaching tool in an upper level middle school classroom.