The Last Wild [Paperback]

A hugely inventive adventure.
—Eoin Colfer,New York Timesbestselling author of the Artemis Fowl series
 
In a world where animals are slowly fading into extinction, twelve-year-old Kester Jaynes feels as if he hardly exists either. He’s been locked away in a home for troubled children and is unable to speak a word. Then one night, a flock of talking pigeons and a bossy cockroach come to help him escape, and he discovers that hecanspeak—to them. And the animals need him. Only Kester, with the aid of a stubborn, curious girl named Polly, can help them survive.
 
The animals saved Kester. But can he save them?
 
When ninety-nine pigeons smash through the windows of Kester's prison and carry him North to the last of the animals…. it's a moment as thrilling as when James flies off in the Giant Peach. Highly recommended
—The Times (UK)
 
“Combines a great fondness for animals with an appreciation of the freakish…. The reserved narrative tone and tender yet peculiar view of animals give this piece its own offbeat flavor.”
—Kirkus Reviews
 
“Alternately somber, thrilling, and silly.”
—Publishers WeeklyAn Indie Next List Selection
 
A hugely inventive adventure.
—Eoin Colfer

Splended stuff.
—Eva Ibbotson 
 
“A whimsical yet thoughtful tale that brings to mind the smarts and silliness of Roald Dahl and Norton Juster.”
—The New York Post
 
* “Alternately somber, thrilling, and silly, filled with eccentric human and animal characters with distinctive voices.
—Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Should have broad appeal. Recommend this book to readers who like the Books of Ember series by Jeanne DuPrau.”
—VOYAl³ƒ