It’s the End of the World As I Know It

After his mother is killed while serving in Iraq, eighth grader Derrick becomes convinced that doomsday is coming. He prepares to survive an apocalypse even though his friends do not share his fears. His mother’s sudden death shapes the way he sees the world and his need to be ready for disaster. Over time, friendship helps convince Derrick that life is worth living. The novel connects grief, fears of catastrophe, and an eighth grader’s efforts to prepare for a future he believes may be ending.