" As a kid, I didn’t need to be convinced the future promised peril and oppression, so when I started thinking up the middle-grade science fiction novel that became ‘The Boy at the End of the World,’ it seemed only natural to build the story around a dark vision of the future. In my book, civilization has nearly destroyed itself. "
- Greg van Eekhout

The quote discusses an author's perspective on crafting a story about a dystopian future from the viewpoint of a young protagonist. The writer suggests that as a child, they were already aware of the potential dangers and oppressions looming ahead, which influenced their decision to write a middle-grade science fiction novel set in such a bleak environment.

Exploring beyond its surface meaning, this quote highlights the influence of childhood experiences on an author's creative process and the choice to incorporate real-world concerns into children’s literature. It underscores the idea that even young minds are acutely aware of societal issues and can process complex themes like environmental destruction and civilizational collapse. The writer believes these themes resonate with a younger audience, making them more engaged and reflective readers.

Greg van Eekhout is an American author known for his works in science fiction and fantasy literature. His approach to storytelling involves weaving intricate narratives that often feature young protagonists navigating challenging futures, reflecting the influence of his early understanding of societal issues on his creative work.