Let the Monster Out

EMPATHETIC NARRATIVE: Along with action and scares, this story deftly discusses fear, regret, and how we learn to live with both. The narrative shows all sorts of reactions to these things¿from shutting down completely to running headfirst into danger¿and treats each character and response with empathy.DIVERSE CAST: The cast of characters reflect the diversity in the real world: there are characters of different races, socioeconomic classes, family make-ups, and both neurotypical and neurodivergent characters. STAR-STUDDED BACKLIST: Lucas¿s debut novel, Thanks a Lot Universe, was a Junior Library Guild selection, received blurbs from Wesley King and Janae Marks, and got two starred reviews, including one from Kirkus, who called it ¿tenderhearted and bold.¿