The Last Human - by Lee Bacon (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

In a future when humans are believed to be extinct, what will one curious robot do when it finds a girl who needs its help? Film rights for this thrilling middle grade novel have been optioned by Sony Pictures, with Phil Lord and Christopher Miller (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Project Hail Mary) attached to develop. In the future, robots have eliminated humans, and 12-year-old robot XR_935 is just fine with that. Without humans around, there is no war, no pollution, no crime. Every member of society has a purpose. Everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Until the day XR discovers something impossible: a human girl named Emma.

Now, Emma must embark on a dangerous voyage with XR and two other robots in search of a mysterious point on a map. But how will they survive in a place where rules are never broken and humans aren't supposed to exist? And what will they find at the end of their journey?

Humorous, action-packed, and poignant, The Last Human tells a story about friendship, technology, and challenging the status quo no matter the consequences. It's not just about what it means to be a robot--it's about what it means to be a friend.

Includes fun black-and-white illustrations.

Review Quotes

"An amusing and upbeat adventure, with glimpses of a fading human footprint on the planet and a suggestion that there's hope for a shared AI and human future."--Kirkus Reviews

"Bacon's story is full of twists and adventure, leaving readers guessing throughout. . . Recommended for fans of thrilling sci-fi with a strong ethical motif."--School Library Journal

"In this enjoyable sci-fi adventure, the stakes are believable and high, and the robots' interactions are humorous, sometimes mixed up for comedic effect. Against a timely backdrop, Bacon (the Joshua Dread series) explores messages of friendship, tolerance, and cooperation with wit and thoughtfulness."--Publishers Weekly

"Navigates experiences of culture clash, morality vs. legality, and friendship that will resonate with young readers in a changing world... An especially quick and rewarding read."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Subtle humor surfaces when literal-minded robots try to understand human idioms, behavior, and emotions. And Bacon raises the story's stakes and action level as the group works against the clock and unexpected new threats. A tech-fueled friendship adventure ideal for fans of Peter Brown's Wild Robot series."--Booklist

About the Author

Lee Bacon is the author of several books for young people, including the Joshua Dread and Legendtopia series, as well as the original audio story The Mystery of Alice. His books have been translated into 23 languages. Bacon grew up in Texas and now lives in New Jersey.