Monster

"Monster" by William Morrison is a science fiction novel written during the early 1950s. Set on Mars, the story captures the struggles of a family, the Kidds, as they contend with various predatory creatures on the planet while trying to maintain their lives amidst the threats these large, hungry animals pose. The novel addresses the challenges of colonization and the humorous yet dire consequences of bureaucracy in a futuristic setting. In "Monster," the Kidd family, consisting of Anthony, Alice, and their son Small, grapples with the dangers of their isolated Martian home, plagued by formidable creatures like badgerines and snaffles. As they attempt to secure their safety, they humorously navigate the frustrations of dealing with a bumbling bureaucrat named T.I. Tapling, who impedes their efforts to acquire adequate weapons. The arrival of Rover, a colossal dog bred for protection, brings both relief and new challenges as the Kidds learn to adapt to life with this unconventional guardian. As the story unfolds, it cleverly intertwines themes of survival, family, and the absurdities of managing life on a hostile planet.