Ok, let’s get this out of the way before we get into the thick of things: my name is BillyBobJoeJoe. Yes, you read that right. BillyBobJoeJoe Johnson is my government name. All one word. Yes, there’s a story behind the name, but that’s for another day because we’ve got more pressing matters to attend to. I’ll just say, I’ve come to embrace the name, and it fits me quite well. But that’s not to say I’m some hillbilly farm boy who can play the banjo (kinda wish I could play the banjo, to be honest).

If you thought the total eclipse was the biggest thing that could happen to Madras, Oregon, think again. No, seriously, think again. Try and think of something that would make your hometown a household name. Mayhaps you thought of a famous CEO being born here or that we’re home to flying cars (if only). Well, I don’t think you’re prepared for what I’m about to tell you (unless you read the title of chapter 1 … I guess that’s kinda a dead giveaway).

An army of technologically advanced terrorists has invaded my hometown. They’ve taken half the population captive, including my family. The terrorists don’t stop after Madras - spreading their chaos to other parts of the U.S., and it looks like it’s up to me to save everyone (I’m only 15—definitely not qualified).

Don’t worry, I’m not alone! I have help from cool folks like a galloping forest man who talks to squirrels, a cowboy with a magical hat that can produce almost anything, and there’s a girl I can’t quite figure out. What could go wrong?