Last Descendants

In Matthew J. Kirby's "Last Descendants," Owen's life is upended by his father's death in prison for a crime Owen believes he didn't commit. He finds a chance to clear his father's name through the Animus, a device that allows users to explore genetic memories. During a simulation, Owen discovers the legendary Trident of Eden, a relic coveted by two powerful secret societies, the Brotherhood of Assassins and the Templar Order. To survive and find the Trident, Owen and a group of teenagers are thrust into a shared memory of the tumultuous 1863 Draft Riots in New York City. This action-packed chapter book blends historical fiction with science fiction, exploring themes of justice, family, and courage. It is best suited for readers aged 9-12, despite the listed 4-11, due to its complex themes and historical violence.

Nothing in Owen's life has been right since his father died in prison, accused of a crime Owen is certain he didn't commit. Monroe, the IT guy at school, might finally bring Owen the means to clear his father's name by letting him use an Animus-a device that lets users explore genetic memories buried within their own DNA. During a simulation, Owen uncovers the existence of a powerful relic long considered a legend-the Trident of Eden. Now two secret organizations will stop at nothing to take possession of this artifact-the Brotherhood of Assassins and the Templar Order. It becomes clear the only way to save himself is to find the Trident first. Under the guidance of Monroe, Owen and a group of other teenagers go into a memory they all share within their DNA: the 1863 Draft Riots in New York City. Owen and his companions will find themselves tested on the violent streets of New York, and their experiences in the past will have far-reaching consequences in the present.