By: Mariah Thomas
Monsters of Men by Patrick Ness is a thrilling conclusion to the Chaos Walking series, which ended in 2010. However, Ness is continuing the series with a new trilogy, set in the same dystopian world and takes place twenty years after the events of “Monsters of Men.” Though the new books follow a different story, the main characters are the children of the protagonists in Monsters of Men. Patrick Ness has set up a brilliant new way in order to keep this series alive.
The title, Monsters of Men, was crafted with inspiration from a quote referenced in the first two books. The quote being, “War makes monsters out of men.” The full quote adds so much more context to the story that unfolds and holds impact for this being the third and final book. The war brought forward in the first two books has reached new heights as three armies march towards Prentisstown. Each army has the intention of destroying the other and our main characters, Todd and Viola, are caught in the middle. They both feel trapped without an escape route in sight. As the battle begins, their hope for stopping the fighting dwindles. The idea of war brings out everyone’s inner monster. Thus, this explosive saga comes to an end.
I admire author Patrick Ness’s ability to create a world that stood the test of time. I initially read this book sixteen years after its publication and the themes discussed are still prevalent today. I also love how he has reentered the Chaos Walking world in a new way. Though it does follow the children of the lead characters, the time jump allows for a new story to be explored. Additionally, for fans of the series, the sixteen year wait between the trilogies must add to the excitement of being able to resist this fictional world and get updates on beloved characters.
Reading Monsters of Men and Piper at the Gates of Dusk back to back was my introduction to author Patrick Ness. After finishing the first, I only wished I had been aware of these books and read them alongside The Hunger Games and Divergent series. Though touching on similar themes, the series is also vastly different as Ness is able to bring readers directly into the universe crafted in these books. His use of imagery leaves a lasting impression. I look forward to following along as he continues in the Chaos Walking world.
While Monsters of Men isn’t a book I would typically read being in the science fiction genre, I found myself thoroughly sucked in and impressed. If you are a fan of dystopian wars, this of course is a worthy read. Additionally, if you are someone who is interested in expanding your reading palette, this is also a great read. Dipping into a new genre can be intense, but Ness’s writing is enticing enough to pull you right into the story and bypass the fear.