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 *

One misunderstood creature. Two children on the run. A choice that will change everything.

• Found Family: Maximillian is a gentle giant who looks like a monster; Kaitlin and Jonno are fugitives in need of a savior. Together, they might just find a home.
• Escape from Oppression: In the city of Hope, the Enforcers have eyes everywhere. For two runaway children, hiding in the home of a "Roach" is their only chance to avoid the dreaded SilverShip.
• Themes of Prejudice and Tolerance: Is Maximillian a monster or a man? This powerful story challenges what it means to be human and makes a compelling case for empathy and understanding.
• Unique World Building: Explore the gloomy, gray city of Hope, a society trapped beneath a mysterious Orb where danger lurks in every overgrown alley.