Bibliography: Ness, Patrick. (2010). Monsters of Men. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN: 978-0763647513

Plot Summary: Todd and Viola are still separated by warring factions, each determined to claim victory before new settlers arrived.  But neither group counted on the Spackle, native sentient species, exacting revenge ofor the murder and genocide inflicted upon them by the settlers.  Again during war horrible choices must be made, some will surprise you and others will cut you to the bone.

Critical Analysis:  I had a hard time reading this final volume of Ness’ trilogy.  Not because it was not a well written book, but because it is so well done.  The three distinct voices speaking their pain and passion and deepest emotions lay bare the horrors of war and the humaness that makes us do awful and great and terrible things.  This book is so true it hurt.  And I was trying my best to make it last, to not get to the end too soon, as I knew it was the final book.  And when I finally reached the final pages, Ness made it at once tragic and hopeful, as I think all humans are when wars come to an end.  I myself am sad to say good bye to such wonderful compelling complex characters as Tood, Viola, their friends and enemies.  I will comfort myself knowing that Ness must have many more books left to write.

Review Excerpts: “As in his preceding books, Ness offers incisive appraisals of violence, power, and human nature, and with the series complete, it’s clear that he has crafted one of the most important works of young adult science fiction in recent years.”–Publisher’s Weekly

“This is a complex and engrossing work that series fans will devour…”–School Library Journal

“For all the huge themes mauling at each other, though, it’s the characters that ultimately stand out in this final act—the connections that bind them and change them and ruin them and redeem them. This is science fiction at its best, and is a singular fusion of brutality and idealism that is, at last, perfectly human.”–Booklist

“The trilogy stands as a significant achievement in science fiction, not only because of its storytelling but also because of its timely examination of human nature, human society, and the terrible costs of violence.” –The Horn Book

Reviewed from publisher provided advanced copy.  Amazon Affiliate: If you click from here to Amazon and buy something, I receive a percentage of the purchase price.