Parents might reach for this book when their child feels underestimated, dismissed, or defined by a label, especially one related to age or ability. Last Pick is a thrilling sci-fi graphic novel set after aliens have abducted everyone between the ages of 16 and 65, leaving behind only those they deemed unfit for labor. The story follows twins Sam and Wyatt, who uses a wheelchair, as they discover the truth behind the abduction and begin to rally the other 'left behinds' to fight back. It powerfully explores themes of self-confidence, bravery, and injustice, showing that strength comes in many forms. For ages 10 to 14, this action-packed story is a fantastic vehicle for conversations about ableism, fairness, and finding your power when others count you out.
The core premise involves the abduction of all parents and older siblings, a source of sadness for characters.
Racism & DiscriminationModerate
The central conflict is driven by ableism: aliens discriminating against people based on disability and age.
Mild PerilMild
Characters are frequently in danger from alien guards and robots.
Sensitive Topics
The book's central theme is ableism, treated directly and in a secular context. The aliens' selection process is explicitly discriminatory. The protagonist, Wyatt, has a physical disability that is integral to his character but is never portrayed as a weakness. It's a core part of his identity that informs his leadership and perspective. The story reframes disability as a characteristic, not a limitation on a person's value or capability. The resolution to this first volume is hopeful, showing the resistance's first major victory, but it clearly sets up a continuing conflict for the series.
Ideal Reader
A 12-year-old who feels overlooked or defined by a single trait (whether it's a disability, being quiet, or just being young). This reader enjoys fast-paced sci-fi and adventure stories, especially ones where kids are smarter and more capable than the adults (or aliens) in charge. It's perfect for a child who is ready to engage with themes of social justice and questioning authority.
Parent Prep
The premise of mass parental abduction might be unsettling for some children, so a parent might want to be ready to discuss that. The book contains sci-fi action and violence (laser blasts, robots exploding, characters in peril) but it is not graphic. The most important preparation is being ready for a conversation about the book's central theme: why society (or the aliens) might label certain people as less valuable and why that's wrong. A parent notices their child expressing frustration about being underestimated. They might hear phrases like, "They think I can't do it because I'm a kid," or "They only see my wheelchair," or a general feeling of being unfairly judged and wanting a chance to prove themselves.
Age Experience
A 10-year-old will likely enjoy the book as a straightforward, exciting kids-vs-aliens adventure. They'll root for the heroes and enjoy the action scenes. A 14-year-old is more likely to pick up on the nuanced social commentary about ableism, the power of community organizing, and the ethical questions of resistance. They will appreciate the character depth and the story's critique of societal structures.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many dystopian novels that feature a 'chosen one,' this book's heroism is collective, found in a group explicitly defined by their perceived weaknesses. Its standout feature is the positive, empowering, and central representation of a protagonist with a physical disability, making him a leader and hero without his disability being magically 'cured' or overcome. It uses the accessible graphic novel format to tackle complex ideas about societal value and discrimination.
Read plot summary
In a dystopian future, an alien race has abducted most of Earth's population, specifically those between the ages of 16 and 65, for forced labor. Left behind are children, the elderly, and anyone with a disability. The remaining humans are confined to protected zones. The story centers on twin brothers Sam and Wyatt. Wyatt, who uses a wheelchair, is an intelligent strategist who chafes under the new rules. They discover the aliens' true motives and begin to organize a resistance movement, proving that those who were cast aside are humanity's greatest hope.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The aliens created the term 'Last Pick' to describe who they left behind. How do the kids in the story turn this negative label into a source of pride and strength?
2
Wyatt is a skilled leader and strategist who uses a wheelchair. How does the book challenge typical ideas of what a hero looks or acts like?
3
Sam and Wyatt are twins but they have different reactions to the alien invasion at first. Why do you think Sam is more cautious while Wyatt wants to fight back immediately? Whose approach do you agree with more?
4
The kids use their unique knowledge, like video game skills and small size, to their advantage. What does this say about how different kinds of skills can be valuable in a crisis?
5
Bucket, the alien robot, decides to help the humans. What do you think motivated him to betray his own kind and do what he thought was right?
