"Monster" by Walter Dean Myers is a powerful and thought-provoking novel that tells the story of Steve Harmon, a 16-year-old African American boy who is on trial for his alleged role in a robbery and murder. Throughout the novel, Steve grapples with the label of "monster" that has been imposed upon him by society and the criminal justice system, as he tries to make sense of his own actions and come to terms with his own guilt or innocence.
One of the most striking aspects of "Monster" is the way in which it exposes the ways in which society is quick to label young people, especially young people of color, as "monsters." Steve is just a teenager, but he is already being treated as if he is a lost cause by many of the people around him, including his own lawyer. The media has also played a role in demonizing Steve, painting him as a "monster" and a "thug" before he has even had a chance to defend himself in court. This narrative is all too familiar to many young people who have been unfairly judged and stigmatized because of their race or socio-economic status.
Another key theme in "Monster" is the way in which the criminal justice system is often biased against young people and people of color. Steve is clearly not getting the same level of support and representation as his co-defendant, James King, who is being represented by a high-powered lawyer. Steve's own lawyer seems more interested in getting him to plead guilty and take a plea deal, rather than actually fighting for his innocence. This is a damning indictment of a justice system that is supposed to be fair and impartial, but which all too often fails to deliver justice to marginalized and disadvantaged groups.
Despite the many challenges and obstacles that Steve faces, he remains a complex and nuanced character who is struggling to make sense of his own actions and find a way to move forward. Throughout the novel, Steve grapples with his own guilt or innocence, trying to understand whether he was truly a participant in the robbery and murder or whether he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time. His internal monologue is raw and honest, giving readers a glimpse into the thoughts and feelings of a young person who is trying to make sense of a world that often seems unjust and unfair.
In conclusion, "Monster" by Walter Dean Myers is a poignant and thought-provoking novel that speaks to the experiences of young people who are unfairly judged and stigmatized by society. It is a powerful reminder of the ways in which the criminal justice system can be biased and the impact that this can have on the lives of young people. It is also a testament to the resilience and strength of the human spirit, as Steve Harmon struggles to find his own path and make sense of his own actions.
