This book made my cry my eyes out, but it wasnt because the book was at all moving or well written. I lost my mother to cancer and it just made me think about that. Nothing in this book was relatable to my own experience with hospitals, cancer or the death of my mother.

This book wasnt anything amazing, imho. It was extremely predictable and the characters were rather robotic and just moved the story along, never really having any depth. I never cared about any of them. They were like empty puppets going thru a very predictable play. The book is very pretty to look at, but as for reading... not so much. I dont know why this book has gotten so much attention! I would not recommend this book to anyone.

I really enjoyed the way this book was written. These days, it seems you don't get a lot in the way of fantastical storytelling, but this is a rare exception. It kept my interest, and even though I knew it probably would not be the best ending, I knew it would be a true ending. Conor is a likeable character, because he is real; he is a flawed human, not just some tough kid we've all read about a hundred times. He is going through something no one should ever have to go through, and at a terribly young age, as well. I was not too keen about the grandmother at first, but then I had to put it in the perspective that not only was Conor coming to terms about letting his mother go, his grandmother had to accept the impending loss of her daughter. So, this was a great story, and I found it to be very creative. The "stories within a story" were really good, as well. Definitely recommended.

Although Mr. Ness does not make A MONSTER CALLS a fast paced novel, and the book actually starts out somewhat slowly, he developes a very good plot and theme that hold your attention whatever your age. The book addresses many issues dealt with during middle school years. These include but are not limited to, serious illness &/or death of a parent, bullying, and interpersonal relationship skills. It offers insights into the mind of the young adolescent, as well as insights into the whys of adult decision making & behavior. Definitely a book all ages can enjoy.

I have been reading aloud to my twins every night, and I thought this might be a book they would enjoy, because of the illustrations. I ended up finishing it with them within 24 hours.

You know how you come across a book, and after reading it, you feel like EVERYONE needs to read it as well? That is how I felt with this book. As a mother, this book ripped my heart to shreds, and put me in an emotional state as I was reading it to my sons. But it was worth every tear I shed. Guys, if you haven't read this book, Do it! The story, the writing, the illustrations, this book was pure perfection and a total 5 out of 5 stars for me.

If you have read this, what were your thoughts?

Bought this book based on the outstanding ratings but I should have looked at the targeted age range. I think for these ages it's a good read and a powerful message but I'm a senior citizen and it didn't move me very much. It was more like a quaint bedtime story for older children.