5 Stages of Grief
The Three Tales
Basic Facts
The Nightmare
Characterization
100

Which stage of grief involves refusing to believe the loss is real?

Denial

100

How many stories does the monster tell Conor?

Three

100

Who is the main character of A Monster Calls?

Conor O'Malley

100

What happens to Conor’s mother in his recurring nightmare?

His mother falls away from him

100

How is Conor treated by classmates at school?

He is ignored and bullied

200

Which stage is shown when Conor feels frustrated and lashes out at others?

Anger

200

What does the first tale teach about good and evil?

Most people are somewhere in-between

200

What illness does Conor’s mother have?

Cancer

200

How often does Conor have the nightmare?

Almost every night

200

How does Conor’s grandmother differ from his mother?

She is strict, controlled, and emotionally distant

300

Which stage of grief involves making deals or “what if” thoughts?

Bargaining

300

What is ironic about the parson in the second tale?

He doesn't even have faith in what he preaches.

300

When does the monster usually appear?

12:07

300

What emotion does the nightmare mainly represent?

Fear of loss

300

What does the monster symbolize about Conor?

His inner thoughts and emotions

400

Which stage is shown when Conor feels hopeless and isolated?

Depression

400

Why does the monster punish Harry in the third tale?

It was actually Conor fighting so that he could be "seen"

400

Where does Conor often see the monster come from?

A yew tree near his house

400

Why can’t Conor hold onto his mother in the dream?

He feels guilty about wanting the pain to end

400

How does Conor change by the end of the story?

He becomes more honest and accepting

500

Which stage represents the final stage of the truth of his mother’s illness?

Acceptance

500

What do all three tales have in common?

They show truth is complicated and uncomfortable

500

What does the monster demand from Conor?

His own truth

500

What truth does the nightmare force Conor to face?

He fears losing his mother but also wants relief from suffering

500

What character trait best describes Conor at the end of the novel?

Courageous honesty

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