Endling: The Last

The first book in Katherine Applegate's dystopian fantasy series follows Byx, a young dairne (a dog-like species) who believes she may be the last of her kind after her family is killed by human soldiers. As Byx embarks on a dangerous journey to find other surviving dairnes, she gathers a diverse group of companions including humans, a wobbyk, and other magical creatures who help her navigate a world where species are being systematically destroyed. The story explores themes of environmental destruction, genocide, hope, and the importance of found family, while addressing issues of persecution and survival in a world where humans have disrupted the natural balance. Byx's quest becomes not just about finding her own kind, but about preventing the extinction of all magical species.