In Emmy Laybourne's Monument 14 series, a group of fourteen children from Monument, Colorado, find themselves unexpectedly trapped inside a superstore while violent, world-altering storms rage outside. This is not just a typical natural disaster; a dangerous chemical has leaked into the atmosphere, causing deadly effects and transforming some people into something distinctly inhuman.
The Premise: Trapped in a Superstore
The core of Monument 14 revolves around a diverse group of fourteen kids who become isolated inside a large superstore. This unlikely shelter becomes their world as the outside environment turns hostile and unrecognizable. Their struggle for survival and their attempts to understand the new, terrifying reality form the central conflict of the story.
Key Events and Challenges
The children face numerous challenges, both from the external threats and internal dynamics within their isolated group:
- Environmental Catastrophe: Beyond the intense storms, a critical element is the chemical leak. This dangerous substance is not only lethal but also has unpredictable mutagenic effects on those exposed.
- Survival: The kids must learn to manage resources, navigate conflicts, and make life-or-death decisions in their confined space, transforming the familiar superstore into a fortress and a prison.
- The "Changed": One of the most terrifying aspects is the emergence of "changed" individuals—people who have been altered by the chemical and are no longer fully human. These encounters pose a direct threat and force the group to confront difficult ethical dilemmas.
Core Elements of the Story
To better understand the stakes, consider these pivotal elements:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | A superstore in Monument, Colorado, serving as both a sanctuary and a trap for the trapped children. |
| Protagonists | Fourteen children, ranging in age and background, who must learn to cooperate and survive together. |
| External Threat | Violent storms coupled with a hazardous chemical leak that alters the environment and its inhabitants. |
| Internal Threat | Some individuals exposed to the chemical are transformed into dangerous, non-human entities, blurring the lines between friend and foe. |
| Genre | Action-adventure thriller, focusing on survival, difficult choices, and the dynamics of a group under extreme pressure. |
A Thrilling Series
The Monument 14 series, penned by Emmy Laybourne, is known for its fast-paced narrative and intense situations. It explores themes of survival, human nature under duress, and the breakdown of society in the face of an unprecedented crisis. The series captivates readers by placing ordinary children in extraordinary circumstances, forcing them to adapt or perish in a world irrevocably changed.
For more information on the series, you can visit the official Macmillan Publishers page for Monument 14 Series.
