Maximillian Fly

By: Angie Sage

Narrated by: Sean Welsh Brown, Jennifer Nittoso, Fred Berman, Josh Hurley, Tavia Gilbert

The bestselling author of the Septimus Heap series, Angie Sage, delivers a gripping and darkly humorous tale of Maximillian Fly—a human with cockroach features—whose quiet life is upended when he aids two human children in their escape from an oppressive governing power.

Perfect for fans of Lemony Snicket and Adam Gidwitz.

Maximillian Fly wants no trouble. Yet because he stands at six feet two, with beautiful indigo wings, long antennae, and more arms than you or me, many are frightened of him.

He is a gentle creature who looks like a giant cockroach. This extraordinary human wants to prove his goodness, so he opens his door to two SilverSeed children in search of a place to hide.

Instantly, Maximillian’s quiet, solitary life changes. There are dangerous powers after them and they have eyes everywhere. But in this gray city of Hope trapped under the Orb, is escape even possible?

Maximillian Fly is a masterful story brimming with suspense, plot twists, and phenomenal world building. This compelling novel delves into family dynamics and themes of prejudice, making the case for tolerance, empathy, and understanding.

* Junior Library Guild Selection * Kids' Indie Next List * New York Public Library Best Books of 2019 Selection * 2020 LITA Excellence in Children’s and Young Adult Science Fiction Notable Book: The Eleanor Cameron Notable Middle Grade Books List *

Fanciful, but message is loud and clear

This story has all of the wonderful imagination and texture that I have learned to look for in Angie Sage’s work. Beyond that this fairy tale has a powerful message about the damaging impact of a mean and selfish parent, and the devastating results of lies, propaganda, and repression. The message is HOPE. The story shows how the brave and kind can overcome the banality of evil.

So confusing

The premise was cool but there were so many plot holes and issues with the story. It was really confusing and many pivotal events seemed forced and illogical.

Nothing like Septimus Heap series

i have tried 4 times to listen, even jumping chapters, but could not endure the long, long monologs. I absolutely loved the Septimus Heap series but cannot get through even 2 chapters of this. would return it if possible.