An ‘endling’ is the last living individual of a species. Once that individual dies, it’s the end of the line.

Ukrainian-Canadian author Maria Reva’s 2025 Booker Prize-longlisted Endling blends the plight of an endangered snail, women in the Ukrainian romance tourism industry, and civilian lives in Ukraine and beyond during war – all told with urgency and humour.

Intrigued? You should be.

Ann Patchett called it “essential reading”; the Booker Prize judges deemed it “unforgettable” and Percival Everett said “[i]t’s about so much and yet is laser focused … I love works that are smarter than I am and this is one”.

With Jenna Todd (Kāi Tahu) she discusses her novel that has received international praise, and been championed enthusiastically by many Auckland booksellers.

Supported by Platinum Patrons Julian & Lizanne Knights.