Summary

In the first chapter of the novel, titled “A Monster Calls,” Conor wakes at night during what he calls ”a” nightmare, as opposed to ”the” nightmare. It is precisely 12:07 a.m. He ponders the secrecy of the nightmare, and how nobody must know about it. He realizes in his wakeful state that he hears his name. Fearful it is a monster, Conor tells himself that he is too old to be afraid; however, he does hear an unfamiliar voice. Conor rises from his bed and stares out the window to the yard outside. A great yew tree grows outside there. It stretches itself into a tall shape and comes to Conor’s window. The boy tells the tree monster that he is not afraid of it.

In the second chapter, titled “Breakfast,” Conor arrives in the kitchen with a bag full of yew...