In celebration of National Library Week, Anchorage Public Library (APL) partnered with the Anchorage School District (ASD) to bring bestselling author Max Brallier to local students. Known for his popular Last Kids on Earth series, Brallier visited Anchorage this week, engaging with young readers and offering an unforgettable experience for fans of his books.
Samantha Blinkered, Youth Services Coordinator for APL, highlighted the popularity of Brallier’s books among students, particularly those in grades three through five. “His Last Kids on Earth series is very popular with kids in grades three through five,” Blinkered said. “They really love it.”
Brallier’s visit marked the first time the author had traveled to Alaska, a thrilling occasion for both the writer and his young fans. “I don’t remember ever having author visits as a kid,” Brallier said. “So being here makes it feel more real and connects with the kids—I’m just a regular person who plays the same video games.”
Over the course of two days, Brallier visited local schools, including Birchwood Elementary, where fifth-grade students had the chance to meet the author behind their favorite series. For Harper Byrum, a fifth-grader at Birchwood, the opportunity to meet Brallier was a dream come true. “I first read the book for a book report and didn’t know much about the author, but I really liked it, so I started reading the rest of the series,” she shared.
Eamon Hughes, also a fifth-grader at Birchwood, expressed his excitement about meeting Brallier in person. “I haven’t met an author before, so it’s just really cool to see the person who wrote the books I read before bed,” Hughes said.
The visit not only allowed students to interact with Brallier but also provided an opportunity for a special gesture. Cole Brezenski, another Birchwood student, took the chance to get a signed copy of Brallier’s eighth book for his sister. “I know she would want it to be signed,” Brezenski said.
The event was made possible through a collaboration between APL and ASD, ensuring that as many students as possible had the opportunity to meet Brallier. “We want to provide an experience for kids whose parents may not be able to make it to our evening events,” said Blinkered. “This way, every student has a chance to meet one of their favorite authors.”
Brallier’s books, which have topped the New York Times bestseller list, are known for sparking imagination and providing a sense of adventure. The author shared that his primary goal is to offer an entertaining escape for young readers. “Books are a lot of things, but what I write is meant to be fun and entertaining, giving kids a chance to lose themselves in a story for a little while,” he explained.
Following his school visits, Brallier concluded his two-day tour with a book signing at the Chugiak-Eagle River Library. His final event of the visit will take place on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at Service High School, followed by a meet-and-greet at the Mountain View Library.
For more information on upcoming events at the Anchorage Public Library, visit their website.
