“LAST DESCENDANTS,” by Matthew J. Kirby, Scholastic Inc., Aug. 30, 2016, Paperback, $9.99 (young adult)
I’m not a fan of video games, so I have little knowledge of the video game franchise Assassin’s Creed. I do know a little bit about books, though, so when I received Matthew J. Kirby’s book based on the franchise, “Last Descendants,” I decided to dive right in.
“Last Descendants” is the first book in a series that features a group of teens caught up in the centuries-old Assassin-Templar feud. The action within the book takes place concurrently in present day and the past.
The main character in “Last Descendants” is Owen. Owen’s father died in prison after being accused and convicted of a crime Owen is sure he didn’t commit. Now Owen is sure he can prove it. Monroe, the IT guy at school, has access to an Animus-a device that lets users explore genetic memories buried within their own DNA. The problem — only the memories predating a person’s birth are available.
Devastated, Owen grudgingly agrees to join his friend Javier in a shared memory between two of their ancestors. While in the simulation, the two uncover the existence of a powerful relic. The Brotherhood of Assassins and the Templar Order both want that relic and are willing to stop at nothing to get it. The only way to stay safe is to find the relic first.
Under Monroe’s guidance, Owen and Javier join a group of other teens, entering a DNA memory they all share — the 1863 Draft Riots in New York City.
As you might imagine, the possibilities are endless in a series like this. Matthew J. Kirby (“Icefall,” “Clockwork Three”) is a fine writer. He brings a mature writing style and strong pacing to what otherwise could become mass-produced spin-offs. It’s clear Kirby enjoys history. His attention to detail makes the simulations come to life. But it’s his love of adventure that really moves the story forward. I’m excited to see where this series goes.
