That’s what Paul Favorito’s childhood was like.

During the day, Paul’s mother was loving, protective, and sober. But at night, when she would self-medicate her depression with drugs and alcohol, she became The Monster.

Paul’s mother had warned him that the police would arrest her and take him away if people found out what she was doing, so Paul kept everything a secret. But some secrets are hard to keep forever. And when a tragic incident made The Monster even worse, Paul feared for both of their survival.

Set in New York City, Mother Monster is a timeless and remarkable coming-of-age memoir of surviving childhood abuse, trauma, and poverty. It follows Paul’s journey through his mother’s mental illness and addiction, as well as his own battles with depression and drugs. Paul’s story is one of heartbreak, but it is ultimately one of love, loyalty, and overcoming adversity against all odds. Told with suspense, humor, and style, it is an unflinching and unforgettable true story of resilience and reinvention.