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103 pages 3 hours read

The Last Book In The Universe

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000

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Book Brief

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Rodman Philbrick

The Last Book In The Universe

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Earth • Dystopian Future

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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Super Short Summary

The Last Book in the Universe by Rodman Philbrick depicts a post-apocalyptic world where Spaz, an epileptic teenager, navigates a divided society, with genetically unaltered humans in the impoverished Urb and genetically improved people in the utopian Eden. Alongside an elderly writer named Ryter, Spaz undertakes a perilous journey to save his ill sister, Bean, ultimately challenging the oppressive systems that govern their lives.

Mysterious

Dark

Adventurous

Emotional

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.3

10,703 ratings

70%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Rodman Philbrick's The Last Book In The Universe is praised for its imaginative dystopian world and engaging narrative. Readers appreciate its fast-paced adventure and powerful themes of hope and resilience. However, some critique the character development as lacking depth. Overall, it is deemed an inspiring read for young adults.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Last Book In The Universe?

A reader who enjoys The Last Book In The Universe by Rodman Philbrick is likely a fan of dystopian fiction and young adult adventure. They would appreciate themes similar to those in Lois Lowry’s The Giver and Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games, including a futuristic society, survival challenges, and thought-provoking moral questions.

4.3

10,703 ratings

70%

Loved it

21%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Spaz

A young narrator living in the Urb with epilepsy, which isolates him from others but gives him unique memories. He lives with Billy Bizmo and the Bully Bangers but yearns for his foster sister, Bean.

An elderly man known as a "gummy," who lives alone in the stackboxes and holds a treasured manuscript. His calm demeanor and knowledge make him a valuable companion to Spaz.

A largely mute 5-year-old orphan who helps Spaz track down Ryter. He follows Spaz on his journey and proves useful due to his agility.

A teenage proov from Eden, who is genetically enhanced and destined for leadership. She shows kindness and uses her status to help others, often traveling to the Urb to distribute food.

Spaz's 12-year-old foster sister, suffering from leukemia, who shares a deep bond with him despite his exile. Her intelligence and curiosity are notable.

The ruthless latchboss of Spaz's area known for his unpredictable behavior. He leads the Bully Bangers and has a complicated connection to Spaz.

A fierce leader of the latch where Bean lives, known for enforcing strict rules. She bans probes and maintains control through her henchmen, the Vandals.

The boss of the underground network in Lotti Getts' area. He operates secretly within the trading district and is unimpressed by the proovs' status.

A former latchboss who is now incapacitated due to prolonged use of a probe. His territory has declined into chaos under the leadership of his former henchmen.

Lanaya's father known as her "contributor," who is smart and enjoys playing chess. He is initially skeptical of normals but becomes supportive of Bean's treatment.

Lanaya's mother known as her "contributor," who adopts Little Face during the group's stay in Eden. She is nurturing and creates a bond with Little Face.

Spaz and Bean's foster father, who prioritizes Bean's safety over Spaz's presence in their family. He is protective yet conflicted, sometimes resorting to harsh methods.

Spaz and Bean's foster mother, who is often cautious but advocates for the bond between Spaz and Bean. She influences decisions about Bean's treatment.

Book Details
Pages

224

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Earth • Dystopian Future

Publication Year

2000

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

740L

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