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THE LAST IMMORTALS by Kit Brooks

THE LAST IMMORTALS

Dawn of the Axolotl

From the Epic Axolotls series, volume 1

by Kit Brooks ; illustrated by Brandon Dorman

Pub Date: May 5th, 2026
ISBN: 9780316601856
Publisher: Christy Ottaviano Books

An axolotl’s fight for survival launches a promising new underwater animal adventure series.

Ace and his twin brother, Jasper, share an egg until hatching day, when they emerge into a brutal underwater world. The undersized twins struggle to compete with their larger, faster siblings for scarce food; their bond fractures catastrophically when Jasper bites off Ace’s tail and abandons him. Alone, Ace must learn to hunt, make allies, and navigate the politics of axolotl society. But he soon befriends Bubbles, a pink axolotl with theatrical flair, and together they meet Ariel, a wise mentor who teaches them about the Immortal Code—a philosophy of survival through unity rather than ruthless individualism. Brooks keeps the narrative moving briskly, never dwelling too long on any scene while balancing the harsh realities of nature with moments of humor and camaraderie. The underwater setting teems with danger, from predatory fish to hostile siblings, yet also offers unexpected alliances. The axolotl’s remarkable regenerative abilities add biological intrigue to the tale, while themes of chosen family versus blood ties give emotional weight to Ace’s journey from helpless hatchling to determined hero. Dorman’s grayscale illustrations bring personality to the aquatic characters and enhance the underwater setting, making the alien world of lake-bottom life feel vivid and immediate.

A captivating series starring today’s trendiest amphibian.

(axolotl facts) (Animal fantasy. 8-12)