Play Book Tag discussion

Wow, when I first read the blurb for this one and saw that cover, I promptly put it aside as not for me but then I kept seeing such positive reviews and decided to try it and I'm glad I did. This is a quirky book told in four parts and four POVs starting with the mother Magos and ending with Monstrilio, M, himself.

Magos and Joseph's son Santiago was born with only one lung. They were told he wouldn't make it long but managed grow into a little boy at the center of his parents' lives until he passed at age 11. Stricken with grief, Magos instinctually cuts out a piece of Santiago's lung and retreats back to Mexico when Joseph is horrified. Following Mexican folktales, Magos feeds the lung until it grows and gain sentience as a carnivorous little monster and then an almost boy like M.

This story is about grief, love, bonds of family, identity and acceptance. Monstrilio is a manifestation of the such grief but both need to understand as Monstrilio comes of age and needs to shape his own identity out of the shadow of Santiago and Magos. I love how accepting the family especially Uncle Luke is of Monstrilio even as they would love for him to be slightly different. Joseph and Magos are able to heal and reach out for happiness again in different ways with Monstrilio. I would love to read more from the author.

BWF Tenacious Trailblazers: Letter M bonus; Coming of Age x 6

Excellent review! I lost most of my interest in the tournament of books this year because it seemed like it was overweighted with horror and dark topics. This seemed like a prime example. But I’ve been hearing so many positive things about this book, the little monster on the cover is starting to look lovable rather than horrific.

I think I will read it this month too. Hoopla has it available on audio. Thanks Jen

I listened to the hoopla audio and it was well done. It has some gruesome but I think you will enjoy.