The Only Ones Analysis

The Only Ones is a science fiction novel by Aaron Starmer set in 2011 on an unnamed far-flung island where people live in seclusion. The story is narrated in the third person using an apprehensive mood and a desolate tone. The novel gives a comprehensive account of the mysterious disappearance of all the adults from the face of the world, leaving only children to govern themselves and plan on how to repopulate. Aaron Starmer’s primary aspects in the novel include self-discovery, child governance and friendship.

The novel follows the life of Martin Maple, a young boy living with his father on an isolated island. Throughout his life, Marin only knows his father and his friend, Darla, a long-distance truck driver. Martin observes how his father builds a mysterious machine that he does not understand its purpose. One day, Martin's father goes on a trip, but he never returns. Martin becomes suspicious and decides to search for his father.

Thematically, Aaron Starmer explores self-discovery, friendship and child governance. Throughout his life, Martin lives in isolation with his father, and does not understand why he never socializes with the rest of society. Consequently, Martin struggles to understand his identity, and looks forward to meet people. Martin starts his journey of self-discovery when his father disappears. Before starting his journey to look for his father and other people, Martin reads books to understand the island's topography. When Martin starts exploring the island, he discovers that all adults have furnished. From the remote island, Martin arrives on the mainland town, Xibalba, inhabited by only children around his age. Marin learns that all the adults on the mainland also disappeared mysteriously.

The most striking theme in the novel is child governance. After realizing there are no adults, the children in Xibalba appoint leaders to lead them in politics, religion and other aspects of life. Every Sunday, Martin and other children attend church services led by their fellow children, who are priests.

In conclusion, Martin makes new friends, including Lane and Nigel. Martin requests his new friends to help him complete the machine his father began to build, believing it will save the world. The mysterious machine is significant symbol in the novel because it represents hope and revival.