Man Made Monsters
What’s inside...
In her YA debut, Cherokee writer Andrea L. Rogers presents a collection of horror stories that spans centuries, following an extended Cherokee family from their homelands in Georgia in the 1830s to the future. The collection includes classic horror elements like werewolves, vampires, and zombies, as well as uniquely American horrors such as empire, intimate partner violence, and dispossession. Rogers also incorporates Cherokee folklore with creatures like Deer Woman and fantastical sea creatures. Accompanied by illustrations from Cherokee artist Jeff Edwards, the book delivers a haunting and masterful experience. Praised by writer Stephen Graham Jones, 'Man Made Monsters' is both heartfelt and thrilling, perfect for horror fans and those who appreciate crossover appeal.
Age
12-18
Length
336 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think motivates the monsters in the story to act the way they do?
How did the actions of the monsters make you feel, and why?
If you could change one thing about the story, what would it be and why?
Can you think of a time when you faced a scary or challenging situation? How did you handle it?
What do you think is the most important message of this book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Share your own thoughts and feelings about the story to model open expression, making it a two-way conversation.
Ask your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. This can help them express their understanding and feelings about the story.
Relate the themes of the book to real-life situations that your child may encounter, which can help in making the book’s messages more tangible and relatable.
Encourage your child to ask their own questions about the story, fostering curiosity and deeper understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Acceptance of Diversity
Explanation: In 'Man Made Monsters,' diverse characters from various backgrounds come together, showcasing a blend of traditions and customs. This melding pot of cultures teaches acceptance and appreciation of differences.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing classmates and neighbors from diverse backgrounds, learning about their traditions and seeing the value in every person’s unique story.
Example Lesson: Consequences of Actions
Explanation: The plot unfolds showing how the protagonist's choices affect the world around them. This narrative highlights the concept that every action has a positive or negative consequence.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to think about the outcomes of their actions on their friends and family, fostering a sense of responsibility and forethought.
Example Lesson: Bravery in Adversity
Explanation: Characters in the book face challenges that require courage to overcome. This demonstrates bravery and resilience in tough situations.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their fears and challenges at school or in social settings with courage, using the characters' experiences as a guide.
Example Lesson: Value of Teamwork
Explanation: The characters often unite to solve problems, emphasizing that teamwork can achieve what individuals alone cannot.
Real-World Application: This encourages collaborative behavior in group projects at school or in sports, teaching kids that teamwork can lead to success.
Example Lesson: Importance of Creativity
Explanation: As characters use their unique abilities to navigate scenarios, the story celebrates creative solutions.
Real-World Application: This lesson inspires children to use their imagination to solve problems and encourages creative expression in art, writing, or play.