Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE LAST BOOKSTORE ON EARTH

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THE LAST BOOKSTORE ON EARTH

Lily Braun-Arnold

In a dystopian future, Liz and Maeve survive together in an abandoned bookstore. (Ages 12 and up)

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • LGBTQIA characters4/5
  • Romance4/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

No brand placement; focus is on the critique of consumerist culture.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

Catastrophe and loss may be part of the setting, but there is no reliable indication that a central character dies on-page.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language consistent with middle-grade fiction.

LGBTQIA characters4/5
Why this rating?

Queer identity and a same-gender relationship are prominent elements of the main characters’ story.

Romance4/5
Why this rating?

A central teen romance, including a same-gender relationship, is an important part of the emotional and narrative arc.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

The unstable dystopian world, surveillance, and survival uncertainty create sustained tension, but this is not primarily horror.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Contains non-graphic conflict, chases, and resistance against authoritarian figures.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The core of the book involves character bravery against an overwhelming system.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Characters must use ingenuity to hide and protect their secrets.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Inclusive casting of supporting characters.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

The story values books, literacy, and preserving knowledge, but it is not primarily intended to teach factual skills.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Characters rely on mutual support and community to survive.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes the power of knowledge, the importance of history, and individual bravery.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonist shows integrity, curiosity, and courage in the face of pressure.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How are identity and relationships presented, and how do they shape the characters’ experiences?
  3. Which choice in THE LAST BOOKSTORE ON EARTH would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE LAST BOOKSTORE ON EARTH, and what caused that change?
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These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

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