Last Pick

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Description

An alien abduction has left behind only those younger than sixteen, older than sixty-five, or too "disabled" to work. In other words, people who weren't a threat-until now. Twins Sam and Wyatt are ready to chuck their labels, break free from their captors, and inspire others to do the same. It's time for "the last picked" to step into the game. Jason Walz pairs vivid world-building and a fast-paced adventure in a beautiful story of sibling devotion. With humor and action, Last Pick shares an empowering message about the dangers of labeling and writing people off.

Reviews

A Kirkus Reviews Best YA Science Fiction of 2018 Selection

"Walz's art is accessible and deceptively simplistic, caught between being realistic and cartoony. It will appeal to kids who've come to love cartoons that have many of the same messages, from Steven Universe to Gravity Falls." --Paste Magazine

"A masterful sci-fi tale with relatable characters, skillful worldbuilding, and cinematically designed illustrations that convey his message."--Kirkus Review, starred review

"Strong character development, atmospheric art, villainous aliens, snappy banter, cheerworthy protagonists, and well-executed suspense should give this lots of broad appeal." --Booklist, starred review

"Messages about valuing all humans (from an author's note: "Whatever the world sees as 'different' is exactly what the world needs") add meaningful layers to this fast-paced adventure featuring a cast of likable heroes and creepy, memorable aliens." --Publishers Weekly

"An action-packed story with compelling art and dialogue and a cliff-hanger ending . . . A strong pick for reluctant readers. Give to fans of Margaret Peterson Haddix's 'Shadow Children' series or Mark Siegel's '5 Worlds' books." --School Library Journal

"The story stands out in asking readers to consider that 'the world often has a narrow view of what success looks like.' This fun and thematically meaningful comic would be a great addition to classroom and library shelves." --VOYA Magazine

"With Last Pick, Jason Walz has created a beautifully crafted science fiction graphic novel that is heartfelt, filled with endearing characters, and all too timely." --New York Times bestselling author Jeff Lemire

Author Bio

Jason Walz is a comic creator and teacher working in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Born in the south, he bounced around between Kentucky and Tennessee before working his way up north. He is best known for his debut graphic novel Homesick, which was nominated for a 2014 Eisner. jasonwwalz.com