1. What Is the Original Monster Manual ? Published by TSR (Tactical Studies Rules) in December 1977, the Monster Manual (often abbreviated MM ) is the first hardcover book for Advanced Dungeons & Dragons . Written primarily by Gary Gygax, it collects and expands creatures from the original 1974 Dungeons & Dragons boxed set, Greyhawk , Blackmoor , Eldritch Wizardry , and various strategic review articles. For the first time, monsters, animals, and non-player characters were compiled in one systematic reference.