The Last by Katherine Applegate captivates readers with its imaginative world-building and strong, relatable characters. Positive feedback praises its emotional depth and engaging plot. However, some critique the pacing as uneven and the ending as slightly rushed. Overall, it is a compelling read for middle-grade audiences, blending adventure with meaningful themes.

Readers who relish adventurous, heartwarming animal tales like Kathryn Lasky's Guardians of Ga'Hoole or Erin Hunter's Warriors series will find themselves captivated by Katherine Applegate's The Last. Ideal for middle-grade readers who appreciate themes of friendship, bravery, and survival in richly imagined worlds.

In Katherine Applegate's Endling: The Last, Byx, a young dairne—an intelligent, dog-like creature—embarks on a perilous journey after her pack is killed by the Murdano's soldiers. Rescued by Khara, a girl posing as a boy to work as a poacher, and accompanied by new friends including Tobble the wobbyk, Byx seeks to uncover the truth about her species' survival amidst threats and dangers. Themes of loss and violence against animals.

Adventurous / Emotional / Inspirational / Hopeful

Katherine Applegate

Middle grade

Novel

Endling

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Last and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Last Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Last Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The End Begins”

Part 1 The Last Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Captives”

Part 2 The Last Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “My Funeral”

Part 3 The Last Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “Allies and Enemies”

Part 4 The Last Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Beginning Ends”

Part 5 The Last Part 5 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

The Last Character Analysis

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Themes

The Last Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Last Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Last Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Last Essay Topics

The Last: Endling #1

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Last?

Reading Age

Book Details