The Worst

"A hybrid of humor and horror that shows young readers both real fear and real friendship." – Kirkus Reviews "The Worst excels at portraying the dynamics of this group of friends, and young readers will enjoy spending time with these characters and seeing how they support each other… For lovers of fun but honest storytelling…" – Publishers Weekly Their eighth grade was the best, and the worst. Then, on the last day of school, a high school student showed up with a gun. Fast-paced, funny, and unforgettable, THE WORST explores the moments that define who we become when things fall apart. For the boys and girl in “Team Bomb Shelter,” their final year at Jerome Marco K-8 was packed with disasters, inside jokes and a talent show. They called the daily chaos of middle school “the worst” — and somehow meant it as a compliment. It should have ended with a celebration. Instead, everything changed. “Nobody and nothing prepared us to deal with what happened when our middle school was attacked by a school shooter. We never saw it coming.” THE WORST spins stories of friendship, joy, courage, and choosing hope when fear takes over. Fast-paced, funny, and unforgettable, it explores the moments that define who we become when things fall apart. “Binder is a skilled writer and performer…” –USA TODAY NETWORK THE WORST is the thrilling stand-alone conclusion to the Groston Middle Series. New readers can jump right in. Mark Binder is the Audie Award nominated author and storyteller of more than two dozen books. He tours the world telling stories to readers and listeners of all ages.

© 2026 Light Publications (Audiobook): 9781940060712

Release date

Audiobook: 9 July 2026