Monster

Synopsis
Monster, written by Walter Dean Myers, tells the story of sixteen-year-old Steve Harmon...a boy on trial for murder.  By using a combination of Steve's journal entries and a screenplay he has written about his experience, the reader is drawn into jail life and courtroom proceedings.  The remainder of Steve's life is in the hands of his lawyer, and subsequently the jury.  As the trial continues, Steve's level of involvement is discussed and debated.  Was he involved in the robbery?  Is he innocent?  It is up to the jury to decide.

Idea for Lesson Plan
As a teacher, I would use this book to supplement a discussion on the "fairness" of our criminal justice system.  I would focus on the quote from Ms. O'Brien when she says, "Half of those jurors, no matter what they said when we questioned them when we picked the jury, believed you were guilty the moment they laid eyes on you.  You're young, you're Black, and you're on trial.  What else do they need to know (79)?"  As a class we would discuss the implications of this quote and how the lack of faith in an entire group of people creates a society of classism and racism.

Critique
Walter Dean Myers portrayal of Steve Harmon is quite accurate.  Through the use of journal entries and the screenplay, the reader acquires a picture of a young, anxious boy.  On page 58 in a dialogue between Steve and his younger brother Jerry, Steve's innocence is portrayed by his desire to be a superhero.  This passage speaks to Steve's character and builds upon the reader's notion of who Steve is.
From the beginning of the novel, Steve's innocence is on the line.  His life is in the hands of the jury.  The plot thickens as more characters are introduced to the story, and Steve's involvement in the robbery is questioned.  Through narration and dialogue via journal entries and his screenplay, Steve and the people around him are portrayed as Steve sees them.
The setting and theme are closely intertwined.  Taking place mainly in the courtroom and Steve's jail cell, the theme of identity is produced.  Steve is constantly grappling with who he is and if this trial defines his character.  If he is on trial for criminal behavior, does that make him a criminal?  What is his identity inside and outside the jail walls?  Do we have power over who we are or can one action determine our identity?
By using journal entries and a screenplay, Myers challenges the common 3rd person narration.  Just as the story is challenging the development of identity under the most stressful circumstances, Myers uses an uncommon format to engage the reader. 
Monster is a story of overcoming the odds and coming of age in the most unusual of places.  This book could be used for various lessons and would be helpful in discussing many challenging themes.  I would highly recommend this book to young adults and adults alike!

Monster. ISBN 978-0-06-440731-1. Walter Dean Myers. 1999. Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Literature for Young Adults. Age 14-18. African American Fiction. Judicial System.