The Last Days

January 1, 2007
Continuing the winning fusion of science fiction and vampire lore, this sequel to [cf2]Peeps[cf1] explores the growing apocalypse (and the accompanying vampirism epidemic) through the eyes of five band members whose music draws deadly worm-creatures into the open. Fast-paced and innovative, the novel successfully melds interpersonal drama, musical aspiration, and a raw, sweeping visualization of a city in chaos.

(Copyright 2007 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

Starred review from November 1, 2006
Gr 8 Up-The names of rock bands are used for chapter titles in this intriguing, fast-paced sequel to "Peeps" (Penguin, 2005), and music permeates the novel. While mysterious, dark happenings have taken over New York Citys hot, humid summer (black water bubbling from faucets and hydrants, and rats congregating in packs on city streets), Moz, an aspiring guitarist, and his closest associate, Zahler, search for promising musicians to complete their sound. One night, as Moz tries to save a vintage 1975 Fender Stratocaster as it is inexplicably thrown out of an apartment window, he meets Pearl, an attractive and slightly off-center musical genius. With the help of Zahler, they recruit a street drummer named Alana Ray, and Pearl convinces her talented singer friend Minerva, who is recuperating from a serious illness that appears to have left her with a strange desire for human blood, to join them. Moz and Pearl work through power issues as they become closer. And as the danger to New York City begins to escalate, the bands evolving music and especially the energized singing of Minervaboth described in great detailplay a central role in calling up the deadly forces and ultimately helping to defeat them. The dialogue is crisp and clear and alternately funny and biting. While it will help to read "Peeps" first, this novel stands on its own. Its a real winner."Jack Forman, Mesa College Library, San Diego"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 1, 2006
Something horrifying is bubbling up from the earth, and vampires stalk the streets of New York--but in this electric sequel to " Peeps" (2005), Moz and his buddy Zahler think only of forming a band. One night Moz, with the help of passerby Pearl, rescues a Fender Stratocaster guitar. Like Moz, Pearl is a musician, and a band is born. Soon the band recruits a singer, a Peep with her parasite mostly under control, and a drummer who literally sees the music and the terrifying things it attracts. Eventually itbecomes clear that the new band will play a key role in the coming struggle against the powerful evil. Westerfeld continues his captivating, original vision, improving it in this tightly plotted sequel. The new characters are engaging, and the breezy dialogue is graced with both unique slang and a touch of humor. Teen will savor the picture of a band finding its sound while saving the world. Both new readers and " Peeps "fans will eat this up.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2006, American Library Association.)