Exploring What Happens After the Almost End of the World by Mike Schlossberg

Mikayla Young
Feb 2
7 min read

The idea of the world ending has fascinated readers for centuries. Mike Schlossberg’s Almost the End of the World, the first book in the Perses series, offers a fresh take on this theme. It explores what life looks like when the apocalypse is not quite complete, and humanity is left to navigate the aftermath. This post dives into the book’s details, shares a synopsis, offers a personal review, and includes questions and activities to deepen your engagement.

Book Information

Title: Almost the End of the World
Series: (Perses series book 1)
Author: Mike Schlossberg
Genre: Post-apocalyptic fiction, Contemporary Fiction, Action and Adventure
Age Category: Young Adult, 16+
Publication Date: June 9, 2026
Publisher: Roan and Weatherford
Formats: Paperback, ebook, audiobook
Format Type: Novel
Format Read in: E-ARC - PDF - Ebook
Representation: Mental Illness, Grief, Loss, Survivors of Abuse
Reading Challenges: Read Around the World - USA - Pennsylvania - Author

I extend my gratitude to the author and publisher for providing me with an e-ARC copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and reflect my personal reading experience with the book.

Book Synopsis

Seventeen-year-old Corey Walker is ready for the end of the world as an asteroid named Perses threatens to obliterate Earth. Yet, when the asteroid is diverted, Corey finds himself in a world grappling with chaos and uncertainty. Society is in disarray, and Corey returns to Augustus Boarding School, where he encounters a mysterious cult, The Refuge, preying on vulnerable students. Amidst this turmoil, Corey meets Paige, igniting hope and rebellion against the cult. As Corey reluctantly becomes a leader, he faces conflict and the pressing question of what comes next in a world that narrowly escaped destruction. Join Corey on a journey of resilience and self-discovery in "Almost the End of the World," where the fight for a new beginning is as perilous as surviving the apocalypse.

My Rating and Review

My Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.5 stars)

The characters in "Almost the End of the World" are not just mere figures within the narrative; they are intricately crafted individuals who embody a spectrum of human experiences and emotions. Each character is realistic, diverse, and deeply flawed, showcasing a rich tapestry of personalities and perspectives that resonate with readers. The main cast is particularly well-developed, with their actions and emotions revealing layers of reliability, humor, fear, and honesty. This depth allows readers to connect with them on a profound level, as they navigate their challenges and triumphs, making their journeys relatable and engaging.

In contrast, the side characters, while diverse and integral to the story, often leave a lingering sense of incompleteness. They evoke a range of emotions such as fear, sadness, grief, and anger, yet some of these characters recur throughout the narrative without receiving the full development they deserve. This lack of depth can create a barrier for readers, making it challenging to fully understand their motives or empathize with their struggles. As a result, the emotional impact of these characters may not resonate as strongly, leaving readers yearning for more insight into their lives and experiences.

The settings within the book are varied and vividly portrayed, ranging from the intimate confines of homes to the bustling environments of schools. These locations are infused with a sense of familiarity and realism, grounding the narrative in a world that feels tangible and relatable. However, there are moments when additional descriptive details could enhance readers' ability to visualize these settings more vividly. A deeper exploration of the surroundings could further immerse readers in the story's atmosphere, allowing them to feel the weight of the characters' experiences in their environments.

The writing style employed by Mike Schlossberg is commendable, marked by a blend of wit, humor, seriousness, and emotional depth. This thoughtful approach to language helps to establish the tone and mood of the story, guiding readers through the highs and lows of the characters' journeys. The plot itself is engaging, filled with action and adventure, and it addresses realistic problems and struggles that many readers can relate to. However, there are instances where certain plot points feel rushed, which could detract from the overall pacing and emotional resonance of the story.

Throughout the narrative, the book imparts valuable lessons on themes such as kindness, open-mindedness, grief, loss, family, friendship, and determination. It does not shy away from addressing heavier subjects, including physical and verbal abuse, death, shootings, and cults. These themes are handled with care and sensitivity, presenting them in a manner that feels authentic and lifelike without overwhelming readers with excessive detail. This balance allows the story to maintain its focus while still addressing the harsh realities of life.

The book poses thought-provoking questions that challenge readers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. Questions such as "How far will one go to protect their loved ones?" and "How do we help those who don’t want help?" resonate deeply, encouraging introspection about human connections and the complexities of emotional experiences. The narrative explores the impact of our actions on ourselves and others, emphasizing that while emotions can be controlling, we possess the power to choose how we respond to them. It also addresses the daunting question of how to move on in a world that seems destined for destruction, prompting readers to contemplate resilience and the pursuit of hope amid darkness.

As the first installment in a series, the book concludes on a cliffhanger, leaving readers eager to discover what lies ahead for the characters. This open-ended conclusion not only sparks anticipation for future installments but also highlights the potential for growth and development within the series. The narrative encourages readers to reflect on life's lessons, the importance of relationships, and the profound effects of our actions on those around us.

"Almost the End of the World" by Mike Schlossberg is a compelling and hard-hitting narrative that lingers in the minds of its readers. It encourages contemplation and reflection, prompting thoughts about the fragility of life and the significance of cherishing loved ones. The frequent mention of pizza adds a touch of humor and relatability, serving as a reminder of the simple joys that can be found even in challenging times. Ultimately, the book challenges readers to consider how they can move forward in a world filled with uncertainty and darkness, urging them to confront the truth, no matter how ugly or heartbreaking it may be.

Questions and Activities

Before Reading

What are your expectations for a post-apocalyptic story? List three themes you hope to see explored.
Reflect on your own feelings about the end of the world. How do you think you would react in such a situation?
Create a list of your favorite books or movies that deal with apocalyptic themes. What do you love about them?

During Reading

Keep a character journal. Write down your thoughts and feelings about Corey and other characters as you encounter them.
Identify key moments that highlight the themes of grief and loss. How do these moments affect the characters and their decisions?
Note any quotes or passages that resonate with you. Why do they stand out?
As you read, consider the role of the cult, The Refuge. What does it represent in the context of the story?

After Reading

Discuss the ending of the book. What are your thoughts on the cliffhanger? What do you think will happen next?
Write a reflective piece about the themes of kindness, resilience, and hope as portrayed in the book. How do these themes relate to your own life?
Create an alternate ending for the story. How would you change the conclusion, and what impact would it have on the characters?
Engage in a group discussion or online forum about the book. What were the most compelling aspects of the story for you?

About the Author

MIKE SCHLOSSBERG is a distinguished author and public servant whose writing career commenced in the eighth grade with a Star Wars fanfiction. Currently, he serves as a State Representative for Pennsylvania's 132nd Legislative District, where he is deeply committed to fostering positive change within his community. This passion for community service inspired him to write his debut novel, Redemption, though it is not his first published work.

His first book, Tweets and Consequences, is an insightful anthology that examines how elected officials have inadvertently compromised their careers through social media missteps. Outside of his writing endeavors, Mike enjoys a variety of hobbies, including playing video games, watching Muppet-related content, and reading. He also values personal connections with his constituents, making a point to call them on their birthdays.

Mike resides in South Whitehall, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Brenna, and their two children, Auron and Ayla. His commitment to mental health advocacy is particularly close to his heart, as he has personally navigated the challenges of depression and anxiety since the age of 18. Through his work, he aims to enact policies that support recovery and well-being for others. In his spare time, he balances his love for writing with family life and fitness, all while continuing to engage with his community in meaningful ways.

Where to Buy the Book

Almost the End of the World will be available through multiple retailers such as:

Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and more.
You can check out the book and add it to your want to read lists via the links below:

Note: I will update this with purchase links once the book is published, on or after June 9, 2026.

Conclusion

Mike Schlossberg's Almost the End of the World presents a unique and thought-provoking perspective on the post-apocalyptic genre. Through the journey of Corey Walker, readers are invited to explore themes of resilience, hope, and the complexities of human relationships in a world that has narrowly escaped destruction. The rich character development and engaging narrative prompt introspection about our own responses to adversity and the importance of connection in times of crisis.

The book's cliffhanger ending leaves readers eager for more, setting the stage for future installments in the Perses series. With its blend of humor and serious themes, Almost the End of the World not only entertains but also encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. As we await the next chapter in this compelling series, the questions raised within the story linger, urging us to consider how we navigate our own uncertain futures.

Whether you're a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction or new to the genre, this book promises to engage your mind and heart, making it a worthwhile addition to your reading list. Don't miss the opportunity to dive into this captivating narrative when it becomes available on June 9, 2026.