by Max Brallier
Part of The Last Kids on Earth, book 7
First published 2021
Jack Sullivan's zombie-controlling abilities continue developing as he and his friends travel toward the Tower to prevent Rezzoch the Ancient from entering their world. Their mission takes an unexpected turn when the Mallusk sweeps them up. This massive centipede carries an entire shopping mall on its back, complete with a bustling monster community called Mallusk City. Jack discovers that old enemies now control the city through authoritarian rule. Since defeating them through combat won't work, Jack decides to challenge them politically by running for mayor. His campaign starts with typical political activities like greeting constituents and making crowd-pleasing promises about strawberry Nesquik in the water fountains. When attackers threaten the Mallusk, Jack faces his biggest test yet. He must prove he can lead effectively under pressure, not just win votes through charm and promises.
Genres: adventure, action, apocalyptic
Vibes: emotional, fast-paced, suspenseful, whimsical
Tropes: enemies-to-lovers, found-family, underdog
Setting: Mallusk City, Tower
Period: Doomsday
320 pages · Hardcover · Viking Books for Young Readers