Higson's terrifying, utterly compelling prequel to The Enemy introduces an all-new cast of characters and sets the stage for a dramatic third book in the series.

The disease only affects people sixteen or older. It starts with the symptoms of a cold. Then the skin begins to itch, and spots appear—spots that soon turn into pus-filled boils. But the worst part is the headache, the inner voices that tell you that you need to eat them... the young ones.

When the Disaster strikes, the world turns upside down for Ed, Jack, Bam, and the other students at Rowhurst School. The parents and older siblings they left back at home are dead—or worse. Once the teachers go on the attack, the kids know it's time to escape and make their way to the city. It's got to be better in London...or will it be worse?