Plot Summary

The Last Mission

Harry Mazer
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The Last Mission

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1999

Book Brief

Harry Mazer

The Last Mission

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1940s

Publication Year

1999

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

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Super Short Summary

Set during World War II, The Last Mission by Harry Mazer follows fifteen-year-old Jack Raab from the Bronx, who lies about his age to enlist in the Air Force and fly bombing missions over Germany. As Jack navigates the trials of military life, he experiences the harsh realities of war, forming new friendships and coping with intense loss while growing from an eager teenager into a battle-hardened young man. The novel includes discussions of war violence and trauma.

Suspenseful

Emotional

Challenging

Bittersweet

Dark

Reviews & Readership

4.3

1,216 ratings

80%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Harry Mazer's The Last Mission receives mixed reviews. Positively, readers praise its gripping depiction of World War II, realistic character development, and emotional depth. Negatively, some criticize the pacing and occasional predictability. Overall, it's considered a powerful, if sometimes uneven, war narrative suitable for young adults and history enthusiasts.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Last Mission?

Readers who enjoy The Last Mission by Harry Mazer are typically teens and young adults interested in historical fiction, especially World War II narratives. Fans of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and Code Talker by Joseph Bruchac will appreciate Mazer's blend of adventure, drama, and historical detail.

4.3

1,216 ratings

80%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Europe • 1940s

Publication Year

1999

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-17 years

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