21% Monster
By Author / Illustrator
P.J. Canning
Genre
Suspense & Thrillers
Age range(s)
9+
Publisher
Usborne Publishing Ltd
ISBN
9781474984416
Format
Paperback / softback
Published
07-07-2022
Synopsis
Fun, fast-paced, high-octane action adventure, 21% Monster is a perfect page-turning new series for fans of Alex Rider, Percy Jackson and the MCU generation. When Darren Devlin is arrested for destroying his school with his bare hands, it's not just the police who are after him. Enter Marek Masters, 14 years old, 19% alien, and the most intelligent, most wanted "almost human" alive. Marek is here to tell Darren the truth - he is 21% monster, and together they must take down the secret organisation that created them. Darren and Marek are wanted, powerful and dangerous. And now it's payback time.
Reviews
Nathan
21% Monster by P.J. Canning is an action-packed, pacey adventure story full of tech, danger and science fiction that will keep children turning the pages. The book centres around Darren who quickly discovers he is a part monster, super human. His powers become even clearer when he accidentally destroys half of his school following a disagreement with bullies. Darren is sent to a high security prison but is quickly assisted by a part alien, super human, Marek. Marek helps Darren to understand who he is but Marek is a dangerous and wanted known criminal with intelligence never seen before. Will Darren and Marek escape and outwit the authorities, or will they be hunted down, caught and killed?
I liked the strong sibling relationship between Darren and Daisy, his sister, and celebration of difference which both carry important moral messages. There is violence and fighting throughout this story; however, I think this is necessary to build the tension and drama and ultimately make this an appealing story for children. I would recommend this book for children aged 9+ and teenagers. This is a must read for those who enjoy sci-fi, technology and lots of action.
I really enjoyed this book and was even happier to discover the title of the next book in the series. I can't wait for the adventure to continue in 2023. Thanks P.J. Canning.
304 pages / Reviewed by Nathan Cox, teacher
Suggested Reading Age 9+