Draft:All That's Left in the World

All That's Left in the World is a post-apocalyptic young adult novel by American author Erik J. Brown, published in 2022 by Balzer + Bray, an imprint of HarperCollins. The novel focuses on themes of survival, resilience, and the human need for connection amidst a backdrop where a superflu has decimated over 99% of the American population.

Plot
The narrative follows Andrew, a teenager who has lost his family to the pandemic, as he navigates the ruins of a shattered world. After being severely injured by a bear trap, Andrew finds refuge in a cabin occupied by Jamie, another survivor who is well-prepared with supplies and a functional solar-powered system. Initially distrustful, Jamie eventually helps Andrew by treating his wound. As they spend time together, they form a strong bond and settle into a cooperative life.

Their peace is disrupted when raiders from a nearby settlement demand supplies as "taxes". Following the raid, Jamie, overcoming his initial reluctance, attempts hunting but cannot bring himself to kill. Meanwhile, Andrew, haunted by a secret guilt of having inadvertently caused the death of a man named Marc Foster’s family, decides to leave for Alexandria, Virginia, to confess. Jamie, learning of Andrew's departure, follows him, and they reunite on their journey.

On their way to Alexandria, they encounter various survivors and learn the grim truth of the global extent of the apocalypse. They decide to head to Florida, hoping to find the daughter of a woman they met. Along the way, they join forces with Cara, a young woman fleeing oppressive conditions in Fort Caroline, a structured but restrictive settlement.

Their journey is fraught with danger, including an ambush by men from Fort Caroline, which results in Jamie being seriously injured. The trio eventually reaches Islamorada, a thriving community in Florida, where they find hope and a new home, contemplating their future together amidst ongoing challenges.

Themes
All That's Left in the World delves into the resilience of the human spirit in the face of catastrophic loss and the importance of human connections. The book highlights the challenges of maintaining moral integrity and the complexities of romantic love in extreme circumstances. Themes of fear, trust, and survival are interwoven with the protagonists' development and the evolution of their relationship.

Characters

 * Andrew - A teenage survivor grappling with the loss of his family to the pandemic and a burdening guilt from inadvertently causing deaths. His journey explores themes of guilt, redemption, and resilience as he navigates the challenges of the post-apocalyptic world alongside Jamie.
 * Jamie - Initially a wary and isolated survivor, Jamie has adapted well to the harsh realities of the world. He lives in a well-stocked cabin with solar power and is skilled in medical treatment and survival tactics. Jamie's character evolves from a cautious loner to a caring individual deeply involved in his relationship with Andrew.
 * Cara - A determined and resourceful young woman who escapes from the restrictive and oppressive environment of Fort Caroline. She joins Andrew and Jamie, adding a new dynamic to their group and contributing to their survival with her strengths and skills.
 * Henri - A kind woman they meet on their travels, who provides them with critical information about the state of the world. Her personal story and the loss of her daughter influence the group's decision to travel to Florida.

Reception
On Goodreads, the novel holds a rating of 4.2 out of 5 of 29,386 ratings.