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Last Pick #2
Born to Run
In Last Born to Run , the second volume of his graphic novel series, Jason Walz pairs vivid world-building and fast-paced adventure in a beautiful story of bravery, sacrifice, and sibling devotion.
Four years ago, aliens kidnapped most of mankind, leaving behind those they deemed unworthy―the “last picked.”
The future for Sam is bleak and unthinkable. A galaxy away from her twin brother, she is a pawn in the aliens’ bloody civil war. But with her new friend Mia, Sam has found a way to resist her captors and hold onto her humanity.
Back on Earth, Sam’s twin, Wyatt, is leading a resistance of his own. With a ragtag army of the old, the young, and the disabled, he has a plan to bring the fight to his alien captors. But to defeat the aliens, Wyatt may need to befriend one.
Four years ago, aliens kidnapped most of mankind, leaving behind those they deemed unworthy―the “last picked.”
The future for Sam is bleak and unthinkable. A galaxy away from her twin brother, she is a pawn in the aliens’ bloody civil war. But with her new friend Mia, Sam has found a way to resist her captors and hold onto her humanity.
Back on Earth, Sam’s twin, Wyatt, is leading a resistance of his own. With a ragtag army of the old, the young, and the disabled, he has a plan to bring the fight to his alien captors. But to defeat the aliens, Wyatt may need to befriend one.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published October 8, 2019
5 people are currently reading
243 people want to read
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September 12, 2019
Wyatt and his sister Sam are separated. Sam has been taken by the aliens, leaving Wyatt to continue as Bird One and face the resistance against the alien overlords. The odds are high, but it's time for the rejects to rise.
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite graphic novel series.
I love the rejects—particularly Harper—and their determination to succeed against overwhelming odds. Wyatt has grown from shy and limited to someone who fights and leads, and Sam continues to fight—although she's learning from her new friend that their enemies might not actually be their real enemy.
I can't wait for book three!
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite graphic novel series.
I love the rejects—particularly Harper—and their determination to succeed against overwhelming odds. Wyatt has grown from shy and limited to someone who fights and leads, and Sam continues to fight—although she's learning from her new friend that their enemies might not actually be their real enemy.
I can't wait for book three!
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review.
May 22, 2019
Just as good, if not better, than the first installment of the series.
August 13, 2022
4.5 stars. How is it that this got even better in book 2?! I'm completely hooked and love the diversity, the different ways that "disability" is viewed, and how these characters have stepped up not because of snowflake syndrome, but because they had to, even when it wasn't the most comfortable - like for the autistic Wyatt, who is an incredible character. And surprise sapphics! Big fan of this series. That ending was killer!
June 20, 2020
Well, I wasn’t all that impressed with the first volume. But I’m sure glad I gave it another chance. The first volume wasn’t bad, it just didn’t feel very inspired to me. When I’m wrong I admit it. This volume was so good, I was in tears by the end. This definitely gets a Rickommendation.
January 18, 2021
not a review, but: somehow i keep giving the kids books to read that feature a queer main character/storyline. this is the future the liberals want.
October 5, 2019
I was going to try to reign in my absolute love for this book. To write about it in a calm and collected way, but to heck with that!
This blew my socks off! I LOVED the first one and was SO upset that the second one wasn't out already. When I saw this was coming out and available on NetGalley, I hit the "request" button so fast, I put my keyboard in jeopardy! And then I had to wait and see if I was approved or not. And I waited.
And waited.
And waited. (It didn't matter if the wait was only one minute or a year, it would have felt just as long to me. I was obsessed.)
But FINALLY I was approved, I downloaded the book, and LIFE HAPPENED. No time to read!!!
And then I said, screw life, this book needs to be read. Priorities in order, I did just that. And I was NOT disappointed. This book skips time a bit, so we are thrown into the middle of where the characters are now. It was easy to catch up, so not a complaint, just an observation.
The big question of "what the heck do the aliens want with humans in the first place" is explained, as is more of the sickness some of the aliens show signs of. The artwork is the same as the first book, excellent, and there is character growth as the situation has changed for both of the MCs. There is violence, though human death is implied to happen off panel and the only death shown is alien death. Though it is still sad and illustrates that killing isn't necessarily the answer. The best friend is a pacifist, which is a very brave stance to take and is shown to be more right than blind violence. Communication is key. I really like that message and am so glad that this is more than just an "evil aliens take over Earth and we need to kill them all in order to win our freedom back" storyline.
So, character growth, important themes told in an interesting way, good artwork and you have here a series that can't be beat! A word of warning, you do need to read the first one before this book so you have a full understanding of what is going on. I would say appropriate for middle readers. There is violence and a surprise kiss from one teen female character to another, but nothing gratuitous. This didn't bother me, but it could be something parents/guardians would be keen on their young ones reading.
5, heck yeah and when is the next one coming out, stars! Highly recommended!
This blew my socks off! I LOVED the first one and was SO upset that the second one wasn't out already. When I saw this was coming out and available on NetGalley, I hit the "request" button so fast, I put my keyboard in jeopardy! And then I had to wait and see if I was approved or not. And I waited.
And waited.
And waited. (It didn't matter if the wait was only one minute or a year, it would have felt just as long to me. I was obsessed.)
But FINALLY I was approved, I downloaded the book, and LIFE HAPPENED. No time to read!!!
And then I said, screw life, this book needs to be read. Priorities in order, I did just that. And I was NOT disappointed. This book skips time a bit, so we are thrown into the middle of where the characters are now. It was easy to catch up, so not a complaint, just an observation.
The big question of "what the heck do the aliens want with humans in the first place" is explained, as is more of the sickness some of the aliens show signs of. The artwork is the same as the first book, excellent, and there is character growth as the situation has changed for both of the MCs. There is violence, though human death is implied to happen off panel and the only death shown is alien death. Though it is still sad and illustrates that killing isn't necessarily the answer. The best friend is a pacifist, which is a very brave stance to take and is shown to be more right than blind violence. Communication is key. I really like that message and am so glad that this is more than just an "evil aliens take over Earth and we need to kill them all in order to win our freedom back" storyline.
So, character growth, important themes told in an interesting way, good artwork and you have here a series that can't be beat! A word of warning, you do need to read the first one before this book so you have a full understanding of what is going on. I would say appropriate for middle readers. There is violence and a surprise kiss from one teen female character to another, but nothing gratuitous. This didn't bother me, but it could be something parents/guardians would be keen on their young ones reading.
5, heck yeah and when is the next one coming out, stars! Highly recommended!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2020
I would like to shed some light upon a graphic novel series that takes place in a fictional United States. Aliens have invaded, they’ve taken a lot of people hostage, and are making their lives very difficult. They use them as labor force on other planets, or for entertainment. The aliens are particular about who they take, only fully functioning humans from young to near older age.
There is a small group that the aliens do not abduct and they are the physically challenged, and the mentally challenged. And our main character, Wyatt struggles, but also shines when they underestimate just what humans are capable of despite.
Wyatt is not alone. Though he searches for his parents, he has the aid of his rough-and-tough sister Sam. Together they sneak around post-invaded Kentucky gathering supplies, information, and people. They meet challenges every step of the way, pushing Sam and Wyatt to become better, to draw closer to each other, and ever closer to finding their mom and dad.
The story finds Sam and Wyatt getting separated, but their indomitable will to overcome the challenges from within keep them going, and finding strength in the people around them.
If you think that sounded a little too vague, well you’re right! But I’ll not apologize for keeping other specifics secret. Hopefully what I’ve said piques your interest to look into the series because it’s worth the time. The characters are three-dimensional, have feelings and goals, including the aliens. The sheriff antagonist I really enjoyed hating, and staying interested in his development. The characters also develop and grow, especially Wyatt, and it’s incredibly precious to watch him lead people and garner their respect.
Accompanied by the stylish art, the visuals are essential to the narrative. And they do what I’ve seen for the first time animate sign language.
The 3rd installment is coming out soon, and I am excited to pick it up. Now is the perfect time to get this series.
There is a small group that the aliens do not abduct and they are the physically challenged, and the mentally challenged. And our main character, Wyatt struggles, but also shines when they underestimate just what humans are capable of despite.
Wyatt is not alone. Though he searches for his parents, he has the aid of his rough-and-tough sister Sam. Together they sneak around post-invaded Kentucky gathering supplies, information, and people. They meet challenges every step of the way, pushing Sam and Wyatt to become better, to draw closer to each other, and ever closer to finding their mom and dad.
The story finds Sam and Wyatt getting separated, but their indomitable will to overcome the challenges from within keep them going, and finding strength in the people around them.
If you think that sounded a little too vague, well you’re right! But I’ll not apologize for keeping other specifics secret. Hopefully what I’ve said piques your interest to look into the series because it’s worth the time. The characters are three-dimensional, have feelings and goals, including the aliens. The sheriff antagonist I really enjoyed hating, and staying interested in his development. The characters also develop and grow, especially Wyatt, and it’s incredibly precious to watch him lead people and garner their respect.
Accompanied by the stylish art, the visuals are essential to the narrative. And they do what I’ve seen for the first time animate sign language.
The 3rd installment is coming out soon, and I am excited to pick it up. Now is the perfect time to get this series.
November 2, 2019
This second installment of the Last Pick graphic novel science fiction series is just as engaging as the first one, and I'd give it a 3.5. After aliens took all the humans they deemed worthy four years ago, including the parents of Wyatt and Sam, they left behind those they considered to be too weak, old, or defective to be of much use. A year later, they returned to Earth and scooped up the rest they considered worthy. Those left behind--the last picks who weren't selected--band together behind Wyatt (Bird One) and his band of imperfect heroes. While he and the others concoct a plan to fight against the aliens who are overrunning the planet, Sam and her new friend Mia are aided by Linda, a long-time prisoner, on another planet as they escape. Mia is lovely in her innocence and trust as she is certain that she and the others are being used as pawns in a battle that isn't theirs and that they should not be fighting. The artwork is stunning, and the ethical dilemmas are tense and meaningful as these so-called "misfit" turn the tables on those who have underestimated them. Wyatt still has plenty of challenges and quirks, but he rises to the occasion and inspires others to follow him on what could be certain death. And yet, what else can they do but try to rally against their oppressors? There are powerful lessons about assumptions, acceptance, and compassion within these pages.
April 14, 2021
With Wyatt left behind on earth and Sam taken away by the aliens, the siblings have each found ways to continue with their resistance and their efforts to find their parents and each other.
I really enjoy the story. I especially like how Wyatt’s differences are shown visually, like when he’s hyperfocusing whilst tuning out other sounds. I also like how some of the aliens aren’t terrible, and I’m investing in figuring out what’s going on with illnesses!
Oh, and that ending? Can’t wait to read V3!
Prompts: centres resistance, different format book (graphic novel), book with queer characters where queerness is not part of the plot, neurodiverse MC, earth based sci fi.
I really enjoy the story. I especially like how Wyatt’s differences are shown visually, like when he’s hyperfocusing whilst tuning out other sounds. I also like how some of the aliens aren’t terrible, and I’m investing in figuring out what’s going on with illnesses!
Oh, and that ending? Can’t wait to read V3!
Prompts: centres resistance, different format book (graphic novel), book with queer characters where queerness is not part of the plot, neurodiverse MC, earth based sci fi.
November 4, 2019
I really loved these and read them quickly. It's an original story that I don't think I've encountered before in all my SF journeys: aliens have scooped up all the non-disabled adults and taken them away to use as slave laborers. The kids, old folks, and disabled people are left on Earth. Sam and Wyatt are determined to resist and to find their parents. The volume has parallel narratives: Sam is on a distant planet, and Wyatt is on Earth. The story is empowering and fun.
July 12, 2020
I'm not a super big fan of graphic novels (I prefer reading my stories as opposed to looking at them in pictures), but this is great. It is incredibly inclusive: sign language, head coverings, and learning difficulties just to name a few. It's important for kids to see themselves in literature and Walz does a great job providing that opportunity. And, he's an incredible speaker for middle school audiences.
September 21, 2021
I really like these books. The aliens and monsters are excellent. This book has the two siblings split and fighting for Earth from their different vantage points. You gotta love both Wyatt and Sam and their different predicaments and strategies.
It is a fun fast read. The Sheriff is truly disturbing. In general, I just like the creativity of the story, and I'm excited to see how it all wraps together in book three.
It is a fun fast read. The Sheriff is truly disturbing. In general, I just like the creativity of the story, and I'm excited to see how it all wraps together in book three.
October 27, 2019
In some ways a bit too simple. And a bit too disjointed. It's like pieces that make the whole make sense are missing. But the setup for the characters work. And maybe the story will pull through anyway. The art is too bright and a bit too cartoony for me. But in the end this was still compelling enough that I'd like to go right to the sequel which I don't think is available yet. 3.5 of 5.
November 16, 2019
This may be my favourite YA graphic novel series of all time and I know this genre like the back of my hand. I may have cried a little at the end of this one. I don't understand how something can be so gritty and so pure at the same time
October 19, 2019
Solid sequel to the original. Love the theme of rejects saving the world.
February 25, 2020
I liked this book as much as the last one. The art in this book is amazing. I am glad that when a monster is speaking that the text is in a different font so you can tell there is a dialect. I think the people at the end of the book were Wyatt and Sam's parents. I wonder why the monster could understand the girls. I think there should be more explanation to the sickness the monsters have. I dont get why they have the space suits if they can breath the air. I dont understand why the rebellion would rely on only the people that are deaf.I dont see how Wyatt suddenly became a leader. I want to know what happened in the year time gap.
January 5, 2022
Love this series - your diverse ability IS your superpower - Love it!
July 7, 2025
JULY IS DISABILITY PRIDE MONTH and this is the perfect graphic novel to represent this. i adore the representation and power behind these characters!!!
October 20, 2025
Wow! This series keeps getting better and more exciting! There are so many layers of critique. So well done!
October 26, 2019
The first volume was good, but this second volume of this YA science fiction graphic novel series was tremendously powerful. As siblings now on two separate planets are forced into an interstellar war, we see humans stepping up to fight, yet be true to themselves against a ruthless enemy. Diverse and inclusive. Appropriate for middle grade as well.
September 5, 2021
I like this. The world keeps on getting more complex and it's fascinating.
July 8, 2020
Born to Run (Last Pick #2) by Jason Walz, 236 pages. GRAPHIC NOVEL. First Second (Macmillan), 2019. $18. 9781626728929
Language: G (1 swear); Mature Content PG; Violence: PG
BUYING ADVISORY: MS – OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Twins Sam and Wyatt are separated by aliens. Sam is kidnapped and taken to a distant galaxy, while her brother Wyatt is left with those whom the aliens thought worthless: the old, too young, and disabled. Wyatt is working on a rebellion on earth, while Sam is caught up in an alien civil war where she is threatened from both sides.
Last Pick’s strength is its diversity. There is a deaf character who signs, crippled people, old people, different ethnicities and Sam and her friend Mia share a kiss. The artwork is colorful and fun and the story dives right in. However the storyline jumps back and forth from earth and Wyatt, to space and Sam pretty quickly so sometimes it’s a little confusing. The storyline didn’t advance the story as much as I’d hoped, but that is the peril of middle books in a trilogy. If you’ve always been pulling for geeks to triumph, this could be your book.
Michelle in the Middle
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2020...
Language: G (1 swear); Mature Content PG; Violence: PG
BUYING ADVISORY: MS – OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
Twins Sam and Wyatt are separated by aliens. Sam is kidnapped and taken to a distant galaxy, while her brother Wyatt is left with those whom the aliens thought worthless: the old, too young, and disabled. Wyatt is working on a rebellion on earth, while Sam is caught up in an alien civil war where she is threatened from both sides.
Last Pick’s strength is its diversity. There is a deaf character who signs, crippled people, old people, different ethnicities and Sam and her friend Mia share a kiss. The artwork is colorful and fun and the story dives right in. However the storyline jumps back and forth from earth and Wyatt, to space and Sam pretty quickly so sometimes it’s a little confusing. The storyline didn’t advance the story as much as I’d hoped, but that is the peril of middle books in a trilogy. If you’ve always been pulling for geeks to triumph, this could be your book.
Michelle in the Middle
https://kissthebook.blogspot.com/2020...
March 11, 2020
New relationships develop in this volume, but I missed the sibling connection between Wyatt and Sam. This is also more action focused. The ending is solid, though, and makes me want to pick up the last one.
August 6, 2020
Last Pick: Born to Run by Jason Walz is the second graphic novel in the series. I enjoyed the first book, and somehow missed this volume when it was first released. I highly recommend reading them in order.
Four years ago, aliens kidnapped most of mankind, leaving behind those they deemed unworthy—the “last picked.” The future for Sam is bleak and unthinkable. A galaxy away from her twin brother, she is a pawn in the aliens’ bloody civil war. But with her new friend Mia, Sam has found a way to resist her captors and hold onto her humanity. Back on Earth, Sam’s twin, Wyatt, is leading a resistance of his own. With a ragtag army of the old, the young, and the disabled, he has a plan to bring the fight to his alien captors. But to defeat the aliens, Wyatt may need to befriend one.
Born to Run is a solid sequel. We get both the continuation of Sam's story in captivity on an alien planet, and Wyatt's fight to save his friends and Earth from the same captors. Each story mirrors the other, with self discoveries and small hints at what might come in the future. I think the balance between action and character growth was well done, and I liked getting to see how Sam, Wyatt, and the groups in each location dealt with the obstacles that they had to face. There was a good deal of social commentary, but those that have read the first book should be prepared for that, about being better than our oppressors and using brain over brawn and violence to keep moving forward. Of course there is also that no one is a throw away, everyone has intrinsic value and will surprise those that underestimate them. The artwork is wonderful, and it captures the action and heart of the story. The characters have personality, and frankly look so tired of having to keep fighting for survival and a better future for everyone. My biggest frustration is a common one in action based graphic novels, the cliff hanger. While many things are dealt with and the story has moved forward significantly, this volume ends with a whole new series of questions and problems to be dealt with.
Born to Run is a good continuation of the story. Readers that enjoyed the first volume of Last Pick will definitely want to pick this one up, and everything that comes after.
Four years ago, aliens kidnapped most of mankind, leaving behind those they deemed unworthy—the “last picked.” The future for Sam is bleak and unthinkable. A galaxy away from her twin brother, she is a pawn in the aliens’ bloody civil war. But with her new friend Mia, Sam has found a way to resist her captors and hold onto her humanity. Back on Earth, Sam’s twin, Wyatt, is leading a resistance of his own. With a ragtag army of the old, the young, and the disabled, he has a plan to bring the fight to his alien captors. But to defeat the aliens, Wyatt may need to befriend one.
Born to Run is a solid sequel. We get both the continuation of Sam's story in captivity on an alien planet, and Wyatt's fight to save his friends and Earth from the same captors. Each story mirrors the other, with self discoveries and small hints at what might come in the future. I think the balance between action and character growth was well done, and I liked getting to see how Sam, Wyatt, and the groups in each location dealt with the obstacles that they had to face. There was a good deal of social commentary, but those that have read the first book should be prepared for that, about being better than our oppressors and using brain over brawn and violence to keep moving forward. Of course there is also that no one is a throw away, everyone has intrinsic value and will surprise those that underestimate them. The artwork is wonderful, and it captures the action and heart of the story. The characters have personality, and frankly look so tired of having to keep fighting for survival and a better future for everyone. My biggest frustration is a common one in action based graphic novels, the cliff hanger. While many things are dealt with and the story has moved forward significantly, this volume ends with a whole new series of questions and problems to be dealt with.
Born to Run is a good continuation of the story. Readers that enjoyed the first volume of Last Pick will definitely want to pick this one up, and everything that comes after.
September 30, 2019
Picking up where book 1 left off, Wyatt and the rest of the rejects, the disabled, the young, and the old who are left on Earth are working to overthrow the aliens after the invasion that took away all the older teens and middle age adults, the able-bodied, healthy, and “normal” people. They have a plan, but can they make it work? Meanwhile, Wyatt’s sister Sam was taken by the aliens after she turned sixteen. She is rebelling as best she can on the foreign planet she finds herself on where she is being told to fight one race of aliens by her kidnappers. They don’t look on rebellion kindly, and she and her bunkmates are being punished with harsher and harsher things for their resistance.
This book, just because it is the 2nd book of what looks to be a trilogy, suffers a little from middle book syndrome. It has been a year since I read the first book so it took me a little while to remember the characters and what had happened last time (and that isn’t really rehashed at all…which can be nice if you read book 1 recently, not complaining, just stating). It took me a little bit to get in the groove, remember the characters, then I got to hang out with them for a little bit, and then there’s not a whole lot of resolution at the end because that’s all being held for the last book. Again, that isn’t bad. Once all the books are out, it’ll be great. For now, though, this isn’t much of a read on its own. There are some interesting plot developments. It was fascinating to see where the Earth residents were being taken by the aliens, and there’s some distinction between alien races developing. Wyatt gets to shine here, and I like the amount of time his deaf friend Harper gets on page (as well as sign language). Those who like alien invasion stories and unlikely hero stories should enjoy this series.
Notes on content [based on ARC]: No language issues. One girl/girl kiss. No other sexual content. There’s some scifi violence, and deaths of humans and aliens are mentioned. The ones that happen on page either tactfully fade out or don’t show any gore.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book, just because it is the 2nd book of what looks to be a trilogy, suffers a little from middle book syndrome. It has been a year since I read the first book so it took me a little while to remember the characters and what had happened last time (and that isn’t really rehashed at all…which can be nice if you read book 1 recently, not complaining, just stating). It took me a little bit to get in the groove, remember the characters, then I got to hang out with them for a little bit, and then there’s not a whole lot of resolution at the end because that’s all being held for the last book. Again, that isn’t bad. Once all the books are out, it’ll be great. For now, though, this isn’t much of a read on its own. There are some interesting plot developments. It was fascinating to see where the Earth residents were being taken by the aliens, and there’s some distinction between alien races developing. Wyatt gets to shine here, and I like the amount of time his deaf friend Harper gets on page (as well as sign language). Those who like alien invasion stories and unlikely hero stories should enjoy this series.
Notes on content [based on ARC]: No language issues. One girl/girl kiss. No other sexual content. There’s some scifi violence, and deaths of humans and aliens are mentioned. The ones that happen on page either tactfully fade out or don’t show any gore.
I received an ARC of this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2020
This and the first book in this series, hmm, okay, I'll say it, they're some of my favorite graphic novels that I've read. Granted, I have not read a huge amount of graphic novels but I have read quite a variety of them. These are absolutely action packed but also have a great story and some good character development.
The fact that these are now some of my favorites is perhaps doubly surprising for me because I am not a huge fan of the art and that is normally one of my primary factors when evaluating graphic novels.
What's especially great about this book is that Wyatt plays much more a part. He is on the Autism spectrum (can't say how accurately it is conveyed but it is still neat). Wyatt, a girl who is deaf, a man who is an amputee, the very old, and other "rejects" (as determined by the invading aliens) band together to start a resistance and it's wonderful and empowering; partly because some of them are able to use their disabilities as strengths. They are able to better assist because of how they see the world differently, how they communicate, etc. I don't know, it's just kind of beautiful.
Also, Sam, Wyatt's sister is a pretty awesome character as well and her pacifist friend is interesting, too.
There's also an alien who's a nerd; he's been rejected by his kind and he helps Wyatt. Their interactions are quite amusing (they're both super fans of various fandoms).
Overall, just a really fun read.
The fact that these are now some of my favorites is perhaps doubly surprising for me because I am not a huge fan of the art and that is normally one of my primary factors when evaluating graphic novels.
What's especially great about this book is that Wyatt plays much more a part. He is on the Autism spectrum (can't say how accurately it is conveyed but it is still neat). Wyatt, a girl who is deaf, a man who is an amputee, the very old, and other "rejects" (as determined by the invading aliens) band together to start a resistance and it's wonderful and empowering; partly because some of them are able to use their disabilities as strengths. They are able to better assist because of how they see the world differently, how they communicate, etc. I don't know, it's just kind of beautiful.
Also, Sam, Wyatt's sister is a pretty awesome character as well and her pacifist friend is interesting, too.
There's also an alien who's a nerd; he's been rejected by his kind and he helps Wyatt. Their interactions are quite amusing (they're both super fans of various fandoms).
Overall, just a really fun read.
July 27, 2021
Interplanetary apocalypse? Talking aliens with goopy, new tech? Sister-brother kids who struggle to get along but still keep a tight bond? Action-packed heists throughout? And no less than the fate of humanity at stake? Yes, thank you!
This somehow kid-friendly story manages to pack all this in, while maintaining perspective in every scene. Not only are the main characters forced to fight for their own survival against all odds. They also get continually sideswiped by overwhelming emotions. And for good reason; even though this portrayal of horrible apocalypse looks a little cartoony, it's still a horrible apocalypse. And the younger of the protagonists is on the autism spectrum, which brings its own difficulties. Especially when he simultaneously needs and pushes away the survivors around him. And when they need him to help lead them in a revolt.
There's just so much packed in here. I loved it, right from the start. Even more than the first book, too.
Only things keeping me from rating this with a full five stars are the awkwardly drawn frames and some forced romance between two girls. There was clearly a lot of intentional representation in this episode. But things as basic as the characters' ages were often confusing, since they look 5+ years younger than I think they're meant to be.
MPA ratings: PG for violence & adult themes
This somehow kid-friendly story manages to pack all this in, while maintaining perspective in every scene. Not only are the main characters forced to fight for their own survival against all odds. They also get continually sideswiped by overwhelming emotions. And for good reason; even though this portrayal of horrible apocalypse looks a little cartoony, it's still a horrible apocalypse. And the younger of the protagonists is on the autism spectrum, which brings its own difficulties. Especially when he simultaneously needs and pushes away the survivors around him. And when they need him to help lead them in a revolt.
There's just so much packed in here. I loved it, right from the start. Even more than the first book, too.
Only things keeping me from rating this with a full five stars are the awkwardly drawn frames and some forced romance between two girls. There was clearly a lot of intentional representation in this episode. But things as basic as the characters' ages were often confusing, since they look 5+ years younger than I think they're meant to be.
MPA ratings: PG for violence & adult themes
October 10, 2019
The first book in this series introduced a pair of twins who were fighting against space aliens who had taken over Earth in a brutal fashion, kidnapping any human they deemed useful for their own nefarious purpose. Left behind were the old, the young, and the disabled. In this sequel, we start to find out why the aliens kidnapped the humans while the twins, now separated by the aliens on different planets, work to find and reunite their families while fomenting a rebellion. Wyatt, the twin with autism, has emerged as a leader on Earth. The very humans deemed as the "last pick" by the aliens plan to become their downfall.
Since I brought the first book into my classroom last year, my reluctant and avid readers have both been devouring it! The book combines action, humor, a realistic portrayal of the struggles that a person with autism or other disabilities might face, the power of a growth mindset, and a celebration of the triumph of humans to overcome barriers to fight for each other and stay true to their convictions. I can't wait to track down one of my students from last year who loved this book and hand her the sequal. I know the list of middle schoolers who want to read book #2 will be longer than I can remember without writing it down!
Since I brought the first book into my classroom last year, my reluctant and avid readers have both been devouring it! The book combines action, humor, a realistic portrayal of the struggles that a person with autism or other disabilities might face, the power of a growth mindset, and a celebration of the triumph of humans to overcome barriers to fight for each other and stay true to their convictions. I can't wait to track down one of my students from last year who loved this book and hand her the sequal. I know the list of middle schoolers who want to read book #2 will be longer than I can remember without writing it down!
March 13, 2020
I grabbed this book because I had seen it on a list for graphic novels with queer representation, not realizing it was the second book in a series. I'm really glad I did, it's fantastic! I'm going to go back and read book one because I enjoyed it so much, but you can pick up book two and follow along quite easily. Aliens have invaded Earth, they have taken everyone ages 16-65 who is not disabled. So the world is now populated by the young, the disabled, and elders. In book two we follow a brother who's a teenager on Earth, and a sister taken to another planet, both fighting their alien oppressors in their own way. On Earth the brother is rallying those left behind in his town to steal from the alien colonizers to build a tool they need. On another planet the sister is being sent out to kill members of another alien race, but she and her best friend refuse to kill for their alien oppressors. The stakes were consistent, clear, and nail bitingly high for both story lines. One of the major themes to the story is that while those with disabilities, and those over a certain age, aren't seen as capable, they can save planet. At moments it made me cry, and even recalling it as I write I'm getting chills. Highly, highly recommend!
April 10, 2022
With the twins separated, the story loses quite a lot of what made the first book good - the dynamics between the main two characters and how they both needed each other to survive. Part two of Last Pick explores how each twin learns to adapt to a world without each other. Through new friends and a community of disimilar but just as 'useless' traits, they not only managed to survive but found ways to beat back the invaders that seemed to have weaknesses of their own.
The main gist of this second installment is to uncover the secrets of these alien invaders and their motivations. While the team of old folks that rescued the twins plays a part in the mission to fight the invaders, the focus was given more to a group of newly introduced younger characters with disability that wasn't in the first book, and it was a little jarring and feels like its a commercial decision than part of the original story.
Nevertheless, its a good bridge to Part 3 which I hope would include a reunion of the twins, and maybe even their parents.
The main gist of this second installment is to uncover the secrets of these alien invaders and their motivations. While the team of old folks that rescued the twins plays a part in the mission to fight the invaders, the focus was given more to a group of newly introduced younger characters with disability that wasn't in the first book, and it was a little jarring and feels like its a commercial decision than part of the original story.
Nevertheless, its a good bridge to Part 3 which I hope would include a reunion of the twins, and maybe even their parents.
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