"A likely read-aloud that has its share of guts, blood, and grim reality within this fantasy land, Monstrous will keep young readers thinking about trust, good and evil, friendship and loyalty, and devotion to community."

"Magic, fantastic creatures, mythology, & a bit of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein combine here for an exciting…tale."

"From its first line, Monstrous had me in its grip. MarcyKate Connolly has created a fresh and wildly inventive dark fairy tale about Kym, a protagonist as sweet as she is strong. Kym's bravery shines, as she fights against the menacing forces in Bryre and also struggles to figure out where she, a self-described monster of a girl, belongs. This remarkable, absorbing debut will enchant readers."

"Pays tribute to classic fairy tales while turning the tradition on its head. A smart, ambitious adventure, led by a heroine whose differences only enhance her humanity."

"Frankenstein meets Coraline in this creepy tale. Kymera, reborn of animal parts and a human brain, knows nothing except that she loves her father, who has built her for a mysterious, disturbing purpose. Though Kymera's guileless narration ensures that readers always suspect more than she does, Connolly's technique effectively builds a sense of dread, as does her skillful interweaving of fairy-tale elements."

"Once I started reading, I could hardly do anything else--the elegant writing, vividly imagined world, and Kymera's marvelous strength kept me hooked. Brave, refreshing, and entirely enchanting, Monstrous is a book that will stand the tests of time."