Matt de la Pena: The Living

Shy took the summer job to make some money. In a few months on a luxury cruise liner, he’ll rake in the tips and be able to help his mom and sister out with the bills. And how bad can it be? Bikinis, free food, maybe even a girl or two—every cruise has different passengers, after all.

But everything changes when the Big One hits. Shy’s only weeks out at sea when an earthquake more massive than ever before recorded hits California, and his life is forever changed.

The earthquake is only the first disaster. Suddenly it’s a fight to survive for those left living.

“de la Pena has created a rare thing: a plot-driven YA with characters worthy of a John Green novel.”

—Entertainment Weekly, A-

“Action is first and foremost…. de la Pena can uncork delicate but vivid scenes.”

—The New York Times