56 pages • 1 hour read
Eliza and Her Monsters
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Book Brief
420
Novel • Fiction
United States • 2010s
2017
Greenwillow Books
YA
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
Eliza and Her Monsters follows 18-year-old Eliza Mirk, a shy teenager who secretly creates the popular webcomic "Monstrous Sea," as she navigates her life both online and offline. When she forms a relationship with Wallace, an avid fan who hides his own painful past, Eliza faces challenges that force her to reconsider her anonymity and confront issues related to her mental health. Includes depictions of anxiety, depression, and discussions of suicide.
Contemplative
Emotional
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Inspirational
Reviews & Readership
65,963 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia has garnered praise for its authentic portrayal of social anxiety and the pressures of internet fame. Critics commend its deep character development and relatable themes. However, some note the pacing can feel uneven, and a few plot points may stretch believability. Overall, it’s a compelling read for YA enthusiasts.
Who Should Read Eliza and Her Monsters?
Readers who thrive in the intersection of realistic young adult fiction and fandom culture will relish Eliza and Her Monsters by Francesca Zappia. Fans of Rainbow Rowell’s Fangirl or Nicola Yoon’s Everything, Everything will connect with its profound yet relatable exploration of creativity, mental health, and online friendships.
65,963 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Wallace Warland
Wallace Warland
A compassionate and honest love interest who shares Eliza's creative passion and struggles with anxiety, serving as both a mentor and a supportive figure in her journey.
Peter and Anna Mirk
Peter and Anna Mirk
Eliza's active and outgoing parents, who struggle to understand her passion for art and preference for online interactions, inadvertently causing conflict and growth.
Sully Mirk
Sully Mirk
Eliza’s straightforward and empathetic younger brother, who supports her artistic endeavors and helps their parents understand her success and passion.
Max and Emmy
Max and Emmy
Eliza's loyal online friends who play a vital role in the success of Monstrous Sea, providing advice, humor, and unwavering support throughout her personal challenges.
420
Novel • Fiction
United States • 2010s
2017
Greenwillow Books
YA
14-18 years
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