Fragile Monstersby Catherine MenonPenguin Reading Fragile Monsters was, for this Malaysia-born reviewer, akin to reliving a story that wasn't mine. Set in the state of Pahang, the family saga might seem "exotic and overdone" to those with Western sensibilities. But - borrowing from the protagonist, who is home after a decade in Canada - to the Malaysian eye it's real life. An important part of that reality is the atmosphere evoked, of a place.