The Last Child: A Novel
The Last Child: A Novel by John Hart, published by Minotaur Books on March 9, 2010, is a compelling narrative that explores themes of loss, hope, and courage. This edition spans 464 pages and is presented in English. The story follows thirteen-year-old Johnny Merrimon, whose life is turned upside down when his twin sister, Alyssa, goes missing. A year later, Johnny remains convinced that she is still alive, despite the disbelief of those around him. His determination to find her leads him into the darker corners of his hometown, where he encounters both danger and unexpected allies.
Readers will find an intricate tale that delves into the psychological aspects of grief and the lengths one will go to for family. As Johnny embarks on his desperate search, he is joined by Detective Clyde Hunt, who has his own vested interest in Alyssa’s case. The narrative unfolds against a backdrop of suspense, with the stakes rising when another child goes missing. The Last Child intricately weaves together elements of psychological fiction and suspense, inviting readers to journey alongside Johnny as he navigates a world filled with peril and revelation.
Official synopsis Publisher
Winner of the 2010 Edgar Award for Best Novel
John Hart’s New York Times bestselling debut, The King of Lies, announced the arrival of a major talent. With Down River, he surpassed his earlier success, transcending the barrier between thriller and literature and winning the 2008 Edgar Award for best novel. Now, with The Last Child, he achieves his most significant work to date, an intricate, powerful story of loss, hope, and courage in the face of evil.
Thirteen year-old Johnny Merrimon had the perfect life: a warm home and loving parents; a twin sister, Alyssa, with whom he shared an irreplaceable bond. He knew nothing of loss, until the day Alyssa vanished from the side of a lonely street. Now, a year later, Johnny finds himself isolated and alone, failed by the people he’d been taught since birth to trust. No one else believes that Alyssa is still alive, but Johnny is certain that she is—confident in a way that he can never fully explain.
Determined to find his sister, Johnny risks everything to explore the dark side of his hometown. It is a desperate, terrifying search, but Johnny is not as alone as he might think. Detective Clyde Hunt has never stopped looking for Alyssa either, and he has a soft spot for Johnny. He watches over the boy and tries to keep him safe, but when Johnny uncovers a dangerous lead and vows to follow it, Hunt has no choice but to intervene.
Then a second child goes missing . . .
Undeterred by Hunt’s threats or his mother’s pleas, Johnny enlists the help of his last friend, and together they plunge into the wild, to a forgotten place with a history of violence that goes back more than a hundred years. There, they meet a giant of a man, an escaped convict on his own tragic quest. What they learn from him will shatter every notion Johnny had about the fate of his sister; it will lead them to another far place, to a truth that will test both boys to the limit.
Traveling the wilderness between innocence and hard wisdom, between hopelessness and faith, The Last Child leaves all categories behind and establishes John Hart as a writer of unique power.
Author
Publisher
Topics
FAQ
What is “The Last Child: A Novel” about?
Who is the author of “The Last Child: A Novel”?
When was “The Last Child: A Novel” published?
What is the ISBN for “The Last Child: A Novel”?
What are the book details (language, pages, edition)?
