Man Made Boy
#1 in Man Made Boy Series
on Goodreads (847)
What’s inside...
Love can be a real monster. Seventeen-year-old Boy’s never left home. When you’re the son of Frankenstein’s monster and the Bride, it’s tough to go out in public, unless you want to draw the attention of a torch-wielding mob. And since Boy and his family live in a secret enclave of monsters hidden under Times Square, it’s important they maintain a low profile. Boy’s only interactions with the world are through the Internet, where he’s a hacker extraordinaire who can hide his hulking body and stitched-together face behind a layer of code. When conflict erupts at home, Boy runs away and embarks on a cross-country road trip with the granddaughters of Jekyll and Hyde, who introduce him to malls and diners, love and heartbreak. But no matter how far Boy runs, he can’t escape his demons—both literal and figurative—until he faces his family once more. This hilarious, romantic, and wildly imaginative tale redefines what it means to be a monster—and a man.
Character compass
Boy
Claire
The Bride
Frankenstein
Discussion points
How do you think Boy felt when he was trying to find his own identity away from his parent's expectations?
What are some ways Boy tries to connect with others who are different from him throughout the story?
If you were Boy, how would you handle the challenges posed by the modern human world?
What do you think about the friendships Boy forms? How important are they in his journey?
Tip: Role play these questions
As you read 'Man Made Boy' with your child, focus on the emotions and decisions of Boy, encouraging your child to express what they might feel in similar situations.
Discuss the concept of identity and acceptance. Highlight how Boy’s experiences can relate to their own interactions at school or with friends.
Prompt your child to think about the importance of empathy and understanding, especially when Boy interacts with characters who are significantly different from him.
Encourage your child to think critically about the choices Boy makes and ask what they might have done differently, fostering a deeper understanding of personal responsibility and consequence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing differences
Explanation: The protagonist, Boy, is not your typical teen—he's a Frankenstein-esque creation dealing with unique struggles. His journey showcases the importance of accepting and celebrating differences.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate the uniqueness in themselves and others, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Importance of self-discovery
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Boy ventures on a journey both physically and emotionally, learning about his origins and defining his identity.
Real-World Application: This narrative can encourage children to explore their own identities, understand their heritage, and assert their individuality confidently.
Example Lesson: Dealing with consequences
Explanation: Boy’s actions, particularly when dealing with complex technology and relationships, lead to various consequences. The story highlights the importance of thinking decisions through.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of considering the potential outcomes of their choices and the responsibility that comes with decision-making.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Boy forms profound friendships that play crucial roles in his development and success in overcoming challenges.
Real-World Application: This emphasizes the importance of building trusting relationships and how significant friendships can be in personal growth and support.
Example Lesson: Perseverance through adversity
Explanation: Boy faces numerous obstacles, from his physical makeup to societal acceptance. His resilience is a key theme throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to persist despite difficulties, understanding that challenges can be overcome with determination and courage.