Where There Be Monsters (The Outersphere #1) by Alby C. Williams: A Journey Beyond the Hedge
When I first stumbled upon Where There Be Monsters by Alby C. Williams, the title alone stirred an adventurous sense within me. As a lover of intricate world-building and characters who define their own narratives, I was immediately drawn into the whimsical yet treacherous world awaiting exploration. This debut is a delightful blend of magic, adventure, and deep emotional connections, centering around a unique protagonist, Glory Brown.
A Magical Adventure with a Touch of Reality
At the heart of this enchanting tale is Glory, a neurodivergent young girl who lives in her parent’s inn for travelers in the Outersphere. Her character is immensely relatable; the way she navigates the complexities of friendship, particularly with Marcus, a cursed boy she meets amidst a monster surge, is poignant and authentic. Glory’s perspective is refreshing, highlighting her distinct thought processes and reactions. I appreciated how Williams skillfully portrayed her "mazy-headed" nature, inviting us to view interactions through her lens—sometimes turbulent, always genuine.
One of my favorite elements of the story was the interplay between growth and understanding among characters. The friendship between Glory and Marcus is rich with conflict and resolution, showcasing how different viewpoints can lead to misunderstandings. It’s a beautiful reminder of the importance of empathy, and I found myself rooting for them every step of the way.
Engagement Beyond the Children’s Realm
What sets this tale apart from your average young adult fantasy is the significant role that adults play. Instead of sidelining the characters with age, Williams allows them to be active participants in the unfolding drama. Glory’s mother’s encouragement to seek adult advice when planning her adventures struck a chord with me—it’s a rarity to see adults portrayed as invested allies rather than just obstacles. This dynamic added depth and nuance to the story, creating a sense of community and support that enveloped the narrative.
As for the world Williams has crafted, it’s a vibrant tapestry of monsters, curse-breaking quests, and mysterious magical beings. I found myself captivated by the imagination that went into crafting monsters and various facets of the Outersphere—magic berries, glowing birds, and a school for world walkers swirling around in a curious mix of chaos and wonder.
Pacing and Plot Threads
However, the plot’s pacing did stumble towards the end. While the narrative starts with a strong foundation, it eventually introduces multiple threads that felt slightly rushed. In trying to juggle the many engaging storylines, some plot points seemed to lose their flavor. I would have loved to see certain elements developed further, which would have deepened my connection to the overarching themes of government corruption and personal growth.
A World for Young Adventurers
In conclusion, Where There Be Monsters is a whimsical ride perfect for readers who appreciate earnest friendships and fantastical escapades. It would resonate wonderfully with those who enjoy stories that celebrate neurodiversity, collaboration, and imaginative exploration. This book is not just an adventure; it’s a heartfelt journey where the bonds of family and friendship are nurtured against a backdrop of monsters, magic, and the great unknown.
I found myself smiling long after the final page, and I can’t wait to see how Glory and her companions continue to carve their path in this captivating universe. Thank you to NetGalley and Roaring Book Press for the eARC—this gem releases on May 6, 2025, and it’s sure to charm many readers just as it did me.
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