Extinction Warrior

by Susan B. Wile

Luki Sloan is a gifted animal communicator growing up on the Bering Strait in desolate Wales, Alaska in the year 2155.

When her scientist detective parents mysteriously vanish pursuing ruthless animal traffickers from the Red Dragon gang, Luki activates Tuk, an android. He persuades her to set out on a dangerous quest to find them by masquerading as traffickers to ensnare White Wolf, infamous leader of the gang by collecting “endangereds” to offer him as bait.

As the stakes get higher, they confront a series of shocking discoveries and must outsmart White Wolf and his android henchman to bring them to justice, save the cargo of endangereds on White Wolf’s superyacht and rescue her parents.

250 pages, Paperback

Published August 30, 2023

About the author

I grew up moving between continents—born in Liberia, then living in Holland where I first learned to read and write in Dutch before I learned to read or write in English. The first book I devoured on my own was The Cat in the Hat, and I’ve loved stories (and animals) ever since.

My debut novel, Extinction Warrior, grew out of a lifelong passion for animals, wild places, and the urgent need to protect our planet. It blends fantasy, science, and adventure for middle grade readers who love strong heroines and global quests.

I'm married and live in New York’s Hudson Valley with the sweetest rescue dog, three cats, and thousands of honeybees (yes, I’m a beekeeper!). When I’m not writing, you’ll find me hiking, biking, or tending my garden.

I’d love to connect with fellow readers and animal lovers here on Goodreads!

Reviews

[Victoria · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book just wasn't my cup of tea, but could work well in an 8th grade class setting to spark climate change and endangered species discussions.

Pros: I love the cover art. It's gorgeous. I like that there are some graphics in the book. The premise for the book is interesting and has potential. I loved the inclusion of other cultures and their native language with translations incorporated into the dialogue. Tuk was fun. I liked the androids of the future aspect. The VR was fun. Korave was a good friend. I liked that there were discussion questions included at the end of the book.

Cons:


• The Protagonist, White Wolf, could be lightly trauma triggering for some children.
• Contains some content I would consider more appropriate for teens 13 and up.


I read an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. My opinions are my own.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and exciting read with lots of fascinating animal info. Great characters. Hope there's a sequel!

[Raymond Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extinction Warrior is an imaginative, high-stakes adventure that blends science, heart, and global urgency in a way that’s both thrilling and deeply meaningful. Luki Sloan is a standout protagonist, brave, vulnerable, and refreshingly complex. Her bond with Mig, the arctic fox, and Tuk, the android, adds layers of warmth and wonder to a story that’s already bursting with action.

The journey spans continents and climates, introducing readers to endangered species and environmental crises without ever feeling preachy. It’s educational, yes, but also wildly entertaining. From cyclones in Tahiti to porcupine attacks in the Alps, every scene pulses with energy and purpose.

What I appreciated most was how the story weaves Indigenous culture, emotional depth, and real-world science into a futuristic setting that still feels grounded. It’s the kind of book that can spark curiosity in young readers and reflection in older ones.

A powerful read for ages 9 to 15, and honestly, for anyone who believes stories can inspire change.

[Amy Little · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vivid images, compassionate characters, and compelling narrative draw us into a mission that we feel immediately committed to. As our call to action takes shape, there’s no turning back and we are on a ride that’s both an outer adventure and an inner learning. We learn concepts, such as the “Generative Principle,” species hierarchies, habitats, resilience, spirit-cords, and human cultural practices. The characters invoke compassion, each very different, all have something the reader can identify with. The main character, Luki, continually inspires by finding her inner strengths such as self-reflection, love, humor, curiosity, and dedication to her goals. And we can identify with her when she shares her self-consciousness about lying or fear of her parents dying. What a beautiful book, it would make a great movie. I highly recommend Extinction Warrior!

[Youtube (SERPERIORREADS) · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy and its author
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Twelve-year-old Luki Sloan is a gifted animal communicator growing up on the Bering Strait in desolate Wales, Alaska in 2055. When her scientist-detective parents mysteriously vanish pursuing ruthless animal traffickers from the Red Dragon gang, distraught Luki activates Tuk, an android. He persuades her to set out on a dangerous quest to find them, masquerading as traffickers to ensnare White Wolf, infamous leader of the gang, by collecting endangereds to offer him as bait.

As the stakes get higher, they confront a series of shocking discoveries and must outsmart White Wolf and his android henchman to bring them to justice, save the cargo of endangereds on White Wolf’s superyacht and rescue Luki's parents.

Well, boring story that i had to listen it on my device by NetGalley app
2.0

[Sanchary Ghosh · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an excellent book for people upto age 18-19. If I have to be critical about it, the white (seemingly so) protagonist appropriating Inuit culture was not very seamless. However, a child is unlikely to notice that. The author has respected the indigenous cultures as much as she could. The MC goes on a believable adventure, with an advanced robot to assist her. There is a lot of representation. The best part is the environmental activism which is gently woven in, through the eyes of a child. I think this is a must-read for kids.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This imaginative book packs in a lot but somehow doesn't overwhelm: exotic creatures; smart, likeable characters; advanced technology; actual drawings of maps; the power of family love; teenage rebellion; and a strong moral and social conscience. The story starts slowly but quickly morphs into a suspenseful page turner. Luki, the main character, is immensely likeable and believable--she has no trouble expressing her strong likes, dislikes, and passion for saving animals and her parents. A good, solid read you'll want to share with your friends of all ages!

[Mitchie Baudelaire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eco call for action that rises hope in today's war fueld world that is on brink on giving up on all the talk of dealing with climate changes. The eco themes took a back seat unfortunately duo to unstable and dire circumstance that have enveloped our lives and media. And that is why books like this one are possibly more important than ever for younger folks to still believe they can bring the change.

[Petra Antonini · Rating 5 out of 5]

Extinction Warrior is an exciting and heartfelt young adult sci-fi story. Luki Sloan, a brave twelve-year-old who can communicate with animals, sets off on a mission to save her missing parents with the help of her fox Mig and the android Tuk. The plot is fast, fun, and full of action, and the cast of endangered animals adds charm and meaning. Susan Wile delivers a lively adventure with humor, heart. A great read for young and not so young sci-fi fans!

[Priscila Vera Schmidt · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a very interesting book. Sometimes I got lost with the terminology, but nothing that could permanently stop me from moving on with my reading. It wasn't really my kind of reading, but my little niece enjoyed it quite a bit when I told her this story for bed time. She made me promise to buy her the book, and I will do so.

[Erin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Graciously received a free copy from good reads.

This was an easy read, however there were many errors for a published book. Also, instead of maps, pictures of the animals would have been better. This book would be good for a young person.