The Monster Variations
by Daniel Kraus

    THE MONSTER VARIATIONS by Daniel Kraus
    Category:  Contemporary
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 6+
    Release Date:  8/11/09
    Publisher:  Delacorte
    Reviewed by:  Breia "The Brain" Brickey
    Rating:  5 Stars


    The story begins in the present with James, who on his way out of town runs into Reggie. The story then switches to
    the year when they were twelve.

    Most of what you read will be from this year, when one of their friends is hit by someone in a silver truck, causing
    him to lose his arm. About two months later, another boy is hit and killed by what everyone suspects is the same
    truck. This leads the parents and the town to enact a curfew.

    Seen through the eyes of 12-year-old boys, this story was very riveting. I enjoyed watching the story unfold. The
    story is not a hard read but it may not be something you want younger kids to read. I would say that they should be
    12 and up.

    THE MONSTER VARIATIONS was a fast and enjoyable read that reminds me a little of the movie Stand By Me.