A Monster Calls

by Patrick Ness · 2011

A Monster Calls follows 13‑year‑old Connor O’Malley as he struggles with the impending loss of his mother to a terminal illness. Tormented by school bullies and a distant family, Connor finds an unlikely confidant in a massive, ancient yew tree that becomes a monster. Over three nights the creature tells him dark, fable‑like stories that force Connor to confront his deepest fears, anger, and grief, leading to a painful but cathartic acceptance of his reality. The novel, inspired by an idea from Siobhan Dowd, blends realistic teenage turmoil with fantastical elements to explore loss, family, and the power of storytelling.