Review of Monday’s Not Coming by Tiffany D. Jackson
When I first picked up Monday’s Not Coming, I was intrigued not just by its compelling premise but also by the shimmering reputation of Tiffany D. Jackson, author of the critically acclaimed Allegedly. There’s something wonderfully magnetic about a book that starts with a question as haunting as "Where is Monday Charles?"—it draws you in, forces you to sit a little closer and pay attention. As I turned the pages, I found myself spiraling into a world where the urgency of friendship and the weight of societal neglect collided in devastating ways.
At its core, Monday’s Not Coming revolves around Claudia and her best friend, Monday, who vanishes without a trace at the start of the school year. It’s a mystery that unravels not only the circumstances of Monday’s disappearance but also the layered complexities of adolescence, friendship, and the often harsh realities faced by marginalized youth. Claudia, smart and resilient, becomes a beacon of searchlight—desperately seeking answers in a world that seems indifferent to her plight. This theme of disenfranchisement resonates powerfully throughout the narrative and asks difficult questions about how society remembers or forgets its most vulnerable members.
Jackson’s writing style is vivid and visceral, immersing us in Claudia’s chaotic emotions and the dizzying uncertainty of her world. The pacing is astutely crafted; just when you think you have a grasp on the narrative, Jackson pulls the rug out from under you. Her narrative techniques—such as the alternating timelines and the use of flashbacks—serve to create a rich tapestry of past experiences, depicting how trauma and secrets can intertwine and shape the present. Each turn of phrase and each meticulously chosen word added depth to the characters’ struggles, making me both empathize and ache for their realities.
One of the most poignant aspects of the book is its ability to linger in the mind long after the final page is turned. I found myself reflecting on the line, “No one seems to remember the last time they saw Monday.” It’s a gut-wrenching reminder of how easily someone can slip through the cracks in a world where everyone is rushing to get somewhere else. The underlying excitement of mystery combined with the themes of lost voices and unspoken truths elevates this read beyond a mere thriller; it becomes an urgent call to action.
If you are drawn to stories with intricate character development and want to explore topics of friendship, trauma, and social justice through a gripping narrative lens, Monday’s Not Coming is truly a must-read. I would highly recommend it to YA enthusiasts, mystery lovers, and anyone who appreciates a story that challenges the status quo while urging its readers to remain vigilant for those who are so often overlooked.
In a world where too many Mondays go unnoticed, this book made me realize the power we hold in our awareness—and the weighty responsibility that comes with it. Tiffany D. Jackson has crafted a story that is not only engaging but also essential, leaving readers both deeply moved and determined to advocate for the forgotten. If you’re ready for a read that will keep you riveted and spark meaningful conversations, then grab a copy of Monday’s Not Coming—you won’t regret it.
You can find Monday’s Not Coming: A Psychological Thriller by the Author of Allegedly here >>