Nov 2019 readalong for Books and Tea.

Not being at all a fan of horror or zombies or politics, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this. It certainly helps that there's more focus on the worldbuilding — the science behind and sociopolitical effects of the virus that creates zombies — and the character relationships really shine, particularly the sibling bond between Georgia and Shaun. (We do get some internalized misogyny, but considering this is a 2010 release it could be worse.) It does get a little tiring that there's some infodumping every few paragraphs, but the audio format might've helped me just roll with it.

However, listening to the audiobook actually ended up spoiling a major plot development for me since

Spoiler

I'd guessed pretty early on that there was a narrator for Shaun because he takes over after Georgia dies

, but it really only added to the tension as I waited to see how and when it would happen.

And it certainly still hit hard, since Grant pulls no emotional punches. There are so many nuanced characters whom I couldn't help but get attached to, despite Georgia's cynicism and misanthropy; the focus on a single major storyline meant that each moment resonated: its relevance clear, its impact examined thoughtfully. Plus, of course, the commentary on media and politics/societal values is alarmingly relevant today.

content warnings:

Spoiler

loss of loved ones, grief, infectious disease, blood, graphic violence, some gore, major & minor character deaths, mercy kill(s), mentioned suicide, suicidal ideation, slut-shaming, ableist language

rep:

Spoiler

physically disabled MC, diverse minor characters

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CONVERSION: 12 / 15 = 4 stars

Prose: 8 / 10
Characters & Relationships: 9 / 10
Emotional Impact: 8 / 10
Development / Flow: 7 / 10
Setting: 8 / 10

Diversity & Social Themes: N/A
Intellectual Engagement: 4 / 5
Originality / Trope Execution: N/A
Rereadability: N/A
Memorability: 4 / 5