Last Bus to Everland
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- $12.99
Publisher Description
A captivating tale of magic, belonging, and the power of family from the acclaimed author of Out of the Blue.
Brody Fair feels like an outsider in his own life: misunderstood by his overworked parents, overshadowed by his genius older brother, and mercilessly bullied by girls in the projects. But everything changes when he meets Nico, an art student who introduces him to Everland—a "knock-off Narnia" that opens its doors every Thursday at 11:21pm to a band of present-day misfits and miscreants.
In Everland, Brody finally finds his tribe and a weekly respite from a world where he feels he doesn't belong. However, as the doors to this magical realm begin to disappear, Brody must make a heart-wrenching choice: say goodbye to Everland and Nico forever, or stay there and risk never seeing his family again. Will Nico catch the last bus to Everland, or will Brody be left behind in a world where he feels eternally out of place?
Last Bus to Everland is a captivating blend of contemporary fantasy and coming-of-age fiction that explores the true meaning of belonging. Perfect for fans of portal fantasies and stories about found families, this enchanting novel from Sophie Cameron will transport you to a world where magic is real and friendship is everything.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
In this absorbing contemporary fantasy, a gay Scottish teen finds a refuge from his everyday life in Everland, a magical realm that draws visitors from all over the world, opening at 11:21 p.m. each Thursday. Here, Brody can escape tormenting bullies, his father's agoraphobia, and his family's financial issues, and follow his dreams to be a musician. But strange developments in Everland threaten both his happiness and his increasing connection to a new friend, handsome and artistic Nico. Caught between the real world and the fantasy, Brody may lose everything he cares for. Cameron (Out of the Blue) paints a compelling picture of a fantasy world that acts as both playground and haven. The true strength of the story, though, lies in the diverse cast of relatable characters, including Kasia, an acerbic lesbian; hijabi Zahra, an avid cosplayer; and Jett and Jett, a music-savvy, pansexual guitarist who uses a wheelchair. Brody's need to escape the mounting pressures of the real world contrasts nicely with Everland's myriad temptations, such as a stage where he can perform with a band, setting the scene for tough choices and emotional breakthroughs. Portal fantasies have a long and rich history, and this is a worthy addition to the genre. Ages 14 up.
