James King, the protagonist of the novel "Monster" by Walter Dean Myers, can be seen as the true monster due to his actions and choices throughout the story. Despite his young age, James displays a callous and manipulative nature, using his charm and wit to deceive those around him. He is willing to sacrifice his friends and family in order to achieve his own selfish goals, showing a lack of empathy and morality. James's ruthless ambition and ability to manipulate others for his own gain paint him as the real monster in the novel, rather than the criminals he associates with.
