Monster by Walter Dean Myers is a powerful and thought-provoking story that challenges readers to consider what it means to be a monster. Through its vividly drawn characters and tense, gripping plot, this novel encourages us to explore the complex issues surrounding crime, justice, and the way we view those who have committed terrible acts. In this article, we’ll explore some of the journal prompts that Myers has provided to help readers engage more deeply with the themes of the book.
At its core, Monster is a story about identity and self-image. The main character, Steve Harmon, is a young black man who is on trial for his alleged involvement in a robbery and murder. As he sits in jail awaiting his trial, he struggles to reconcile his own self-image with the image others have of him as a criminal and a monster. Through Myers’ expert writing and his carefully crafted journal prompts, readers are invited to examine their own ideas about identity and what it means to be labeled as a monster.
Through its exploration of the criminal justice system, Monster also raises important questions about the way we treat those who are accused of crimes. As readers follow Steve’s trial, they must confront the uncomfortable reality that the American justice system is far from perfect. Myers’ journal prompts encourage us to consider the implications of this reality, and to reflect on our own ideas about justice and punishment. By engaging with these prompts, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the complex issues at play in our criminal justice system, and perhaps even begin to envision a better way forward.
Walter Dean Myers Biography
Walter Dean Myers was an American author of children’s books, young adult fiction, and non-fiction. He was born on August 12, 1937, in Martinsburg, West Virginia and passed away on July 1, 2014, in New York City. Myers grew up in Harlem, New York City, and dropped out of school at the age of 17. He joined the US Army and served in Korea. Myers discovered a love for literature while serving in the army and began to write after leaving the army.
- Myers was the son of a janitor and a factory worker
- His family moved to New York City when he was three years old
- Myers’ mother died when he was only two years old, and he was raised by his father and stepmother
- Myers dropped out of high school and joined the army at the age of 17
- He wrote his first book, “Where Does the Day Go?” in 1969, which was a picture book for children
- Myers wrote over 100 books, including young adult fiction, children’s books, and non-fiction
- He received many awards for his writing, including two Newbery Honors
- Myers was the National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature from 2012 to 2013
- He served as a member of the Advisory Board of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators from 1997 to 2002
- Myers was awarded the Margaret A. Edwards Award from the American Library Association for his contributions to young adult literature in 1994
- He was awarded the Michael L. Printz Award for Excellence in Young Adult Literature in 2000 for his book “Monster”
- Myers was an advocate for literacy and education, and worked to promote reading and writing among young people
- He was a mentor to many young writers, and often spoke to groups of students about writing
- Myers often addressed social issues in his writing, including poverty, racism, and social injustice
- He was a strong advocate for diversity in children’s literature
- Myers passed away on July 1, 2014, at the age of 76
Walter Dean Myers was a prolific author and an advocate for literacy and education. He used his writing to address social issues and promote diversity in children’s literature. Myers’ legacy lives on through his books and the impact he had on young people, both as an author and a mentor.
If you are interested in learning more about Walter Dean Myers, you can read his memoir, “Bad Boy: A Memoir,” which tells the story of his early years growing up in Harlem. You can also check out his many books, which are still widely read and celebrated today.
Themes in “Monster”
While “Monster” by Walter Dean Myers is a fictional book, it explores several themes that are relevant to real-life scenarios. Here are 15 journal prompts that can help you explore the themes of the book:
- What does it mean to be a monster?
- How does fear influence behaviors?
- What role does race play in the justice system?
- What happens to a person’s identity when they are labeled as a criminal?
- Why are some people more likely to be marginalized by society?
- What are the effects of mob mentality?
- What is the difference between justice and vengeance?
- How do cultural norms impact individual decisions?
- What are the consequences of associating with the wrong crowd?
- What happens when individuals become desensitized to violence?
- How do people cope with the trauma of being incarcerated?
- What is the role of forgiveness in the justice system?
- What is the impact of the media on criminal trials?
- What does it mean to have a second chance?
- How does perception influence reality?
By exploring these journal prompts, you can gain a better understanding of the themes present in “Monster” and how they relate to our society today. The book explores the complex issues surrounding the criminal justice system and encourages readers to ask important questions about the fairness and impartiality of our institutions.
It also highlights the importance of empathy and understanding, even for those who have committed heinous crimes. Ultimately, “Monster” reminds us that we are all human and deserving of compassion and justice, regardless of the mistakes we may have made.
Character Analysis in “Monster”
In Walter Dean Myers’ “Monster,” the main character Steve Harmon is a complex and dynamic character whose actions and thoughts throughout the novel allow readers to understand his true personality. Here are 15 examples of character analysis in “Monster”:
- Steve Harmon is a 16-year-old black teenager who is easily influenced by his surroundings.
- He is a budding filmmaker who documents his life in a journal and through a video camera.
- Steve is accused of being an accomplice in a robbery that resulted in a murder and faces life imprisonment if convicted.
- He feels isolated and betrayed by his family as they distance themselves from him during his trial.
- Steve’s love for film is evident as he often relates events in his life to movie scenes.
- He is extremely observant and pays attention to body language and interactions between people.
- Steve struggles with his identity as a black teenager and often feels like an outsider in his own community.
- His guilt or innocence is constantly questioned throughout the novel and creates a sense of doubt in the readers’ minds.
- Steve is conflicted about whether to testify in his own trial or not, as it could make or break his case.
- He is constantly battling with his conscience and trying to decipher what is right and wrong.
- Steve’s relationship with his lawyer, Kathy O’Brien, is a pivotal point in the novel and helps shape his character.
- He is introspective and reflective, often thinking about his past mistakes and how they have impacted his current situation.
- Steve’s desire for acceptance and belonging is evident through his interactions with the other inmates at the detention center.
- He is afraid of being judged by others and wants to prove his innocence to everyone.
- Steve’s transformation from a naive teenager to a hardened inmate is a result of his experiences in prison and the harsh reality of the justice system.
Steve Harmon is a multi-dimensional character who evolves throughout the novel. His struggles with identity, guilt, and acceptance make him relatable to many readers. “Monster” is a powerful character analysis of a young man who is forced to confront his own flaws and the flawed justice system that he is a part of.
As a teacher, it is important to guide students to analyze and understand the characters in literature. Using examples from “Monster” can help students develop critical thinking skills and empathize with complex characters.
Social justice issues in “Monster”
Walter Dean Myers’ book “Monster” presents several social justice issues that are still relevant today. These issues are present throughout the book and affect the characters in different ways. Here are fifteen examples of social justice issues in “Monster”.
- Racial discrimination
- Police brutality
- Institutional racism
- The impact of poverty and lack of education
- Privilege and power dynamics
- The broken justice system
- Gang violence
- The criminalization of youth
- Innocence until proven guilty
- The impact of language and dialect on the perception of guilt
- The role of media in shaping public opinion
- The impact of parental involvement on a child’s life
- The impact of peer pressure on a child’s life
- The impact of race on sentencing and the death penalty
- The impact of incarceration on individuals and communities
These social justice issues are woven into the story of “Monster” and are still present in society today. As an expert blogger, it is important to continue to raise awareness about these issues in order to effect change. By discussing books like “Monster”, we can create important dialogues about our justice system and work towards a more just and equitable society.
It is evident that Walter Dean Myers wrote “Monster” to not only entertain but to also provoke thought and conversation about social justice issues. Through literature, we can begin to understand the world around us and reflect on how we can work towards a more equitable and just society.
Symbolism in “Monster”
“Monster” by Walter Dean Myers is a novel filled with symbols that help to deepen its themes and meaning. Here are 15 examples of symbolism in the story:
- The term “monster”: The word “monster” takes on multiple meanings in the novel, referring both to the protagonist Steve Harmon’s crime and to the systemic racism and prejudice that he faces in the criminal justice system.
- The film camera: The film camera represents Steve’s desire to tell his own story and to assert his own truth in a world that is trying to control and manipulate him.
- The prison uniform: The orange prison uniform that Steve is forced to wear symbolizes the loss of his personal identity and freedom as he becomes trapped in the criminal justice system.
- The courtroom: The courtroom represents the larger social and political systems that shape Steve’s life and restrict his opportunities.
- The bed: Steve’s bed in the prison cell symbolizes his physical and emotional isolation from the world outside.
- The skullcap: The skullcap worn by the prosecution’s star witness, James King, symbolizes his affiliation with a gang and his willingness to testify against Steve in exchange for a reduced sentence.
- The cigarettes: The cigarettes that Steve smokes throughout the novel symbolize his feelings of rebellion and his desire to assert his independence.
- The legal pads: The legal pads that Steve uses to take notes and record his thoughts symbolize his desire to create an objective and truthful record of his experiences.
- The prosecutor: The prosecutor in Steve’s trial symbolizes the larger social and political forces that are arrayed against him, as well as the hypocrisy and corruption of the criminal justice system.
- The defense attorney: The defense attorney in Steve’s trial symbolizes the possibility of redemption and justice within an unjust system.
- The prison library: The prison library symbolizes the power of education and self-discovery, as well as the limitations imposed on individuals who are incarcerated.
- The stolen money: The stolen money that Steve is accused of taking symbolizes the larger economic and social disparities that exist in American society, particularly for people of color.
- The razor blade: The razor blade that King gives to Steve as a gift symbolizes the violence and danger inherent in gang culture, as well as Steve’s own complicity in that culture.
- The photograph: The photograph of Steve with James King and other members of King’s gang that is presented as evidence against Steve symbolizes the power of visual images to shape perception and manipulate the truth.
- The mirror: The mirror in Steve’s prison cell symbolizes his struggle to define his own identity and to see himself clearly in a world that is constantly distorting his image.
- The verdict: The verdict in Steve’s trial symbolizes the larger social and political forces that shape individuals’ lives and restrict their opportunities, as well as the possibility of redemption and justice within an unjust system.
Through these symbols, “Monster” explores themes of identity, justice, truth, power, and prejudice, offering readers a powerful meditation on the complexity of human experience in America.
As readers, it is important for us to engage with these symbols and to consider their deeper meanings, asking ourselves how they enrich our understanding of the story and its characters and what they reveal about the world we live in.
Writing Techniques in “Monster”
Walter Dean Myers’ novel “Monster” is a powerful story that uses a variety of writing techniques to tell the story of a young black man named Steve Harmon, who is on trial for his alleged involvement in a robbery gone wrong. Here are 15 examples of the writing techniques used by Myers throughout the novel:
- Flashbacks: The novel uses flashbacks to give readers insight into Steve’s life before his arrest. For example, flashbacks show Steve’s passion for filmmaking and his close relationship with his family.
- Imagery: Myers uses rich sensory details to create vivid mental images in the reader’s mind. For example, he describes the dimly lit prison cell where Steve is held, the sounds of the courtroom, and the taste of the terrible food served in jail.
- Simile: Myers uses simile to create comparisons that help readers visualize complex ideas. For example, he writes, “I thought about the situation like a person trying to get a picture of something out of focus.”
- Suspense: The novel is full of suspenseful moments that keep readers on the edge of their seats. For example, the trial scenes are tense as Steve’s fate hangs in the balance.
- Metaphor: Myers uses metaphor to help readers understand complex ideas. For example, in one scene, Steve compares the courtroom to a stage, and the lawyers to actors playing their parts.
- Point of view: The novel is told from Steve’s point of view, which allows readers to see the story through his eyes and understand his thoughts and emotions.
- Irony: Myers uses irony to create tension and surprise in the story. For example, Steve’s dream of becoming a filmmaker becomes ironic when he is forced to make a film as part of his defense in court.
- Symbolism: Throughout the novel, Myers uses symbolism to represent important themes. For example, he uses the idea of masks to represent how people can deceive each other and hide their true selves.
- Mood: The novel has a dark, ominous mood throughout, reflecting the serious subject matter and the grim reality of Steve’s situation.
- Foreshadowing: Myers uses foreshadowing to hint at events that will happen later in the story. For example, the novel begins with Steve’s description of “the moment of doubt” when he realizes that he might be in trouble.
- Characterization: Myers creates complex, multi-dimensional characters that feel realistic and relatable. For example, Steve’s lawyer, Kathy O’Brien, is a flawed but sympathetic character who believes in Steve’s innocence.
- Dialogue: Myers uses dialogue to develop characters and move the plot forward. For example, the conversations between Steve and his family show their love and support for each other.
- Themes: The novel explores important themes such as racism, injustice, and the power of the legal system. Myers uses various writing techniques to explore these themes and make readers think about important issues.
- Structure: The novel is structured as a screenplay, which allows Myers to use filmmaking techniques such as camera angles and close-ups to create a cinematic feel.
- Conflict: The novel is full of conflicts, both internal and external, that create tension and drive the story forward.
Overall, “Monster” is an expertly crafted novel that uses a wide range of writing techniques to tell a powerful and important story. Through his use of flashbacks, imagery, dialogue, and other techniques, Myers brings the world of the novel to life and explores important themes in a compelling, thought-provoking way.
Whether you’re studying the novel in a classroom or reading it for your own enjoyment, taking the time to appreciate these writing techniques can help you understand and appreciate the novel even more deeply.
FAQs about Monster by Walter Dean Myers Journal Prompts
1. What is Monster by Walter Dean Myers?
Monster is a novel written by Walter Dean Myers about a 16-year-old boy named Steve Harmon who is on trial for his alleged involvement in a robbery and murder.
2. What are journal prompts?
Journal prompts are questions or prompts designed to inspire writing and reflection. They can be used to help explore and interpret the themes of a book, such as Monster by Walter Dean Myers.
3. Why use journal prompts with Monster?
Journal prompts can help you engage with the book on a deeper level, by encouraging you to reflect on the characters, themes, and events. They can also help you develop your writing skills, and explore your own thoughts and feelings about the book.
4. What are some good Monster journal prompts?
Some examples of Monster journal prompts might include: How does Steve feel about his role in the crime? What does the book suggest about the justice system? What are some of the ethical dilemmas presented in the book?
5. How often should I use journal prompts?
How often you use journal prompts depends on your goals and schedule. Some people might use them daily, while others might use them weekly or as needed.
6. How can I make the most of journal prompts?
To make the most of journal prompts, try to be honest and reflective in your writing. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling – the goal is to explore your thoughts and feelings. You might also try sharing your writing with others to get feedback and perspectives.
7. Where can I find more Monster journal prompts?
You can find more Monster journal prompts by doing a search online, asking a teacher or librarian, or creating your own prompts based on your own interests and questions.
Closing Thoughts on Monster by Walter Dean Myers Journal Prompts
Thanks for taking the time to read about Monster by Walter Dean Myers journal prompts! We hope this article has inspired you to try some journaling of your own and delve deeper into the world of the book. Be sure to visit again later for more books and writing tips!