Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody by Patrick Ness

Zeke and Daniel have just been made hall monitors by Principal Wombat. This has nothing to do with the fact that they are monitor lizards. And never mind the fact Alicia, the only other monitor lizard in the school, is also a hall monitor.

Somehow, the three hall monitors must impose order on arrogant lions, excitable seals and super-relaxed pandas. And worst of all, there is Pelicarnassus! A pompous giant pelican and the son of a major supervillain, who inexplicably has it out for the lizards. Can the hall monitor lizards and their new friend, a blind, fearsome red-tailed hawk, protect their school from all manner of outlandish threats?

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Patrick Ness, well known and respected for his thought-provoking and twist-filled young adult novels, takes his first plunge into the middle grade market with a book that is both engaging and full of heart. Known for his ability to tackle complex themes and create intricate worlds, Ness brings a lighter yet equally captivating touch to this new audience. With its blend of adventure, humour, and relatable characters, this book is a delightful read for younger readers while still carrying the depth that fans of Ness have come to expect.

The story unfolds in a world where animals and birds possess human-like intelligence, living, working, and studying side by side. Patrick Ness masterfully balances their animal instincts with their anthropomorphic behaviours, creating a setting that is both imaginative and relatable. For instance, the lizards’ homes are thoughtfully designed with numerous windows to allow them to bask in the sun—an example of how Ness ensures these creatures retain their natural characteristics. At the same time, their human-like actions and motivations make them easy for young readers to connect with, blending the familiar with the fantastical.

Zeke, the protagonist, is a monitor lizard navigating the challenges of school life, where he faces bullying, and the difficulties at home with a chronically depressed mother. Ness approaches these heavy topics with sensitivity, ensuring that the story remains accessible to younger readers. The tone is kept light, but the emotional depth is palpable. Zeke’s mother’s depression is symbolized by a black dog—a metaphor often used in media—which alternates between being a friendly companion to Zeke and a barrier that keeps him from reaching his mother. This clever depiction allows young readers to grasp the complexities of mental health in a way that is both approachable and impactful. Luckily, readers won't feel lectured to; the real-world aspects are seamlessly disguised behind the engaging animal behaviors and outlandish supervillain threats, making the underlying messages feel natural and unobtrusive. Children will absorb them without even realising it.

In a refreshing subversion of typical adventure narratives, Zeke confronts his challenges not through combat or escape but by understanding and empathising with those around him. Despite being a large and physically imposing monitor lizard, Zeke’s true strength lies in his compassion. Rather than using his size to intimidate or fight, he chooses to engage with his problems—be it the bullies at school or the black dog representing his mother’s depression—by seeking to understand them. This approach not only highlights Zeke’s emotional maturity but also delivers an important message to young readers about the power of empathy and kindness in overcoming life’s difficulties.

In a nod to the style popularised by Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody is richly illustrated with simple, black-and-white drawings. These illustrations are not merely decorative; they play an essential role in the storytelling. The images break up the text, making the book more accessible to younger readers, while also highlighting key moments and details that add depth to the narrative. The illustrations complement the tone of the story, adding a visual layer that enhances the reader's connection to Zeke’s journey.

Overall, Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody marks a successful and delightful entry into middle grade fiction for Patrick Ness. With its blend of humor, heart, and important life lessons, the book offers young readers a story that is both entertaining and meaningful. Ness’s ability to tackle difficult topics with sensitivity, combined with the engaging illustrations, makes this a standout read. I'm hoping that there will be a series of these - I would certainly enjoy reading more of Zeke's adventures. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Ness or new to his work, this hilarious tale of a compassionate monitor lizard is sure to resonate with both children and adults alike.

Chronicles of a Lizard Nobody publishes on the 5th of September, 2024. I received a free copy and am giving an honest review.