Thank you to Max for agreeing to an interview. Max is a children’s author and has written over 30 books. His series The Last Kids on Earth has been made into a Netflix series.

Interview

What was your inspiration for The Last Kids on Earth series?

I was a daydreamer as a kid.  I spent countless hours imagining my buddies and me saving the world from whoever/whatever — bad guys, dragons, aliens, monsters, etc.  After writing a bunch of books, I was given the opportunity to propose a series.  It just made so much sense to write the books I would have wanted to read when I was that daydreaming kid.  I also thought how cool it would be if there were no adults around.  That would change everything.  And out of all that, came The Last Kids on Earth.

How did you choose which character to focus the story? 

My main character is Jack.  To nobody’s surprise, he’s inspired by me.  Imaginative, failing when trying his best, not athletic, not an intellectual, trying to be funny, not so cool with the girls, and his friends mean the world to him. 

What is your approach to world and character building?

I try to plan ahead as much as I can, so it never feels like I’m just winging it.  But at the same time the best ideas tend to be the ones that aren’t planned.  So I try to plan ahead while also leaving plenty of wiggle room to still have fun and pivot if a new idea excites me. 

How did your process change with the graphic novel?

It was lots of fun working with a co-writer, Josh, making each other laugh the entire time.  We just let ourselves be goofy and had a lot of fun being silly.  It was our love letter to comic books. 

How would you describe The Last Kids on Earth and the Monster Dimension in five words?

We’re in the endgame now…(almost).  Oops, that’s six words.  Sorry. 

Did you have a favourite moment to write in any of the books?

Probably bringing Thrull back in Book 5. And writing the surprise character death in Book 5…it was emotional.  Loved Mario Kart opening in Book 3.  Loved school election gags in Book 7. And with the Last Comics series, favorite moments were when a gag or idea would really get me and Josh laughing.

What was your favourite book growing up?

Bart Simpson’s Guide to Life 

Do you have a favourite genre to read?

Older mysteries, westerns, 80s comics, weird/interesting history.