Summary and Analysis of Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Most people in our community are decent, hardworking citizens who pursue their own interests legally and without infringing on the rights of others. But there are also monsters in our communities – people who are willing to steal and to kill, people who disregard the rights of others.” (21)

1. Why do you think the book is called Monster? (5)

The characters are judging Steve Harmon as a “Monster.” The prosecutor calls Steve a “Monster.”

2. Who is Steve Harmon? Why do you think he’d wear a suit and tie to his trial instead of his orange jumper? (7)

Steve Harmon is a 16 year old boy who is on trial for felony murder. He wears his suit and tie to look proper for trial and also to appear “clean” looking. Also, if he were to wear his orange jumper he would already appear guilty.

3. Who is Kathy O’Brien? (Describe her) (12)

Steve’s defense attorney and she has red hair and freckles. She is all business when talking to Steve.

4. What crime is Steve being tried for committing? (12)

Steve is being tried for felony murder

5. Who else is on trial with Steve? (12)

James King, 23 years old, who is the other man on trial

6. When asked if they’ll win, O’Brien says, “it probably depends on what you mean by ‘win’” (13). What do you think she means by this?

Depends on what the jury convicts Steve of—his life is on the line because he is being tried for the death penalty

7. Describe James King. (13)

23 years old /looks older than 23
Wears a sloppy looking suit
He looks at Steve with a “hard look” and Steve looks away
Him and Steve have some connection since they’re both being tried for murder (possibly his “partner in crime”?? )

8. The guard explains, “It’s a motion case. They go through the motions; they lock them up” (14). What do you think he means by this?

The guard is saying that they are being judged on their race—the jury already thinks the young men are guilty

9. According to O’Brien, what’s the purpose of her job? (16) Specifically, what’s her legal title?

She is the defense attorney and she is to prove to the jury the Steve is innocent

10. Describe the judge (17)