Tony Ross

If you're looking for a way to introduce the concept of monsters and bedtime to a child in an unthreatening, not-too-scary way, I'm Coming to Get You! is an excellent choice. The book's monster is certainly a mean and nasty sort of monster---he scares the banana people and eats their whole planet---and Tommy, the protagonist, is certainly nervous about finding monsters in his house at bedtime. But when the monster and Tommy finally meet, the result is surprising and very, very funny. Tony show more Ross' energetic ink and watercolor illustrations capture the monster's fierceness and Tommy's worry perfectly, and the quick, easy text allows for a fun bedtime read aloud. show less

Sunlight City is a futuristic shrine to decadent splendor, where anything is possible, from drugs and alcohol, to prostitution and gambling, and inhabitants can pursue their pleasures, without fear of retribution. A sensual paradise, and possibly hell on earth. However, as with everything else in Sunlight City, the giant corporations control life. The police force exists to protect the big money bosses. When Mona Macheski runs away from ruthless billionaire businessman Josef Hirigawa, owner show more of Bifrost Technologies, she unleashes a fury second to none. If Victor, Josef’s assassin doesn’t get her, Omega (the backup) will.

Victor, a gifted assassin with no memory of his past, is someone special. He’s been reported dead more than a few times, so how come he has popped up over the last thirty years, seemingly ageless. Killing Mona is the most controversial assignment of his career. The problem is … fragmented memories are starting to return and disturb his thinking. Mona developed a program for Josef’s murder squad, an elite group of super-assassins, with adjustments to their DNA that border on the controversial. When she refuses to cooperate with Josef any longer, she leaves, taking with her the vital information Josef needs to continue his genetics program. Her only hope lies in David, a detective with problems and secrets of his own. He must defend Mona, and perhaps save her from someone who is vitally important to him.

This is a very interesting novel and author Tony Ross raises some controversial questions about the meaning of life, the immortality of the soul, the dangers of tampering with genetic experimentation, and ultimately belief in God. He also includes a thought-provoking Q&A at the end of the book for interested readers. While I found the Christian elements slightly at odds with the level of violence and decadence portrayed, the plot is really gripping. The main characters wrestle with revelations about themselves and the meaning of existence; and come to decisions that reveal their ultimate understanding.

There are hints of “Blade Runner” here, but this is a unique story with fascinating twists and turns in the tale. The pace is slow at first, but then speeds up to create a first-rate, runaway thriller. It’s sci-fi with a difference, and will certainly satisfy readers looking for a stimulating read with a surprise ending. show less

This book had a surprising yet different and intriguing outlook on bullying. A little boy reflects on why another boy bullies him, asking questions beginning with "Is it because...?" The boy eventually realizes that the bully is treating him this way because he has his own problems, or maybe that he wants to be the boy. This book can teach children to consider other peoples' feelings and try to have sympathy for those who probably have difficult lives.

Oscar Got the Blame by Tony Ross is a story about a young boy who gets blamed for everything his imaginary friend does. The story ends showing a picture of Billy, Oscar's imaginary friend, who seems almost evil. Ross does a great job throughout the story of showing the change of emotion in each character with his illustrations. Interested in reading some other picture books by Tony Ross.