When it comes to zombies, one can get lost in the esoteric considerations–what zombies symbolize (death) and whether or not they shamble or run (perhaps indicating how close one is to death). But when it gets right down to a zombie apocalypse, one may find a need for more pragmatic solutions.
Since most readers have not as yet found themselves put upon by scourge of the reanimated, they can make up for lack of field experience by illuminating themselves via the printed word. The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks boasts Complete Protection From the Living Dead. Inside the pages, the eager reader realizes the superiority of the bicycle over the automobile, and the trench spike over a trident, and even the benefits of a fitness regime. The Zombie Survival Guide also features strategies for long-term apocalypse survival, including salient tips on gardening–because any intrepid zombie escapee knows the secret to defying the zombie invasion is simply to outlast the buggers. Plus, most leafy greens thrive in the rich compost of decomposing flesh.
After one has pored over the helpful hints and tips for survival, perhaps one has begun to actually desire the hastening of the zombie apocalypse in order to employ the new skills learned. You fool. Had you had any notion of the true rigors of survival, you would quickly apply your trench spike to your own head. In order to get a glimpse of the hellish aspect of living through a zombie invasion, turn your attention to Day By Day Armageddon by J.L. Bourne. This diary of raw survival, MREs, control towers, CB radios, and underwater zombies, will chill the blood and fire sweat-soaked nightmares for a long time to come.
After all, you might not have it in you to shoot your flatmate, mum, and girlfriend all in the same evening. But at least you’d have the skillz.
Bella Street is currently working on a novel series, Apocalypse Babes, wherein zombies and disco enmesh. Until its release, readers must content themselves with time-travel and pixie dust in her latest paranormal romance novel, Kiss Me, I’m Irish.
Don’t forget to comment with your reaction to Bella’s recommendations or with some suggestions of your own, to enter this week’s contest.
Smart Girls love SciFi 
Man, I was all set to welcome the Zombie apocalypse, but now I’m looking for the spike.
Fun post, Bella. 🙂
It’s only recently that I’ve begun reading anything about zombies – because they are so yucky! But…I totally got into the graphic novel The Walking Dead and that sort of opened the door. Your books sound like must-reads!
If you think zombies are yucky, I recommend staying away from a new book called Dust. funny–but even to yicky for me. Cringe!
“Day by Day Armageddon” sounds scary. I’ll have to get this one for my 14 y.o. But as someone who lives in a coastal community, theoretically safe because you can only get here by plane or boat, underwater zombies are now my new fear!
Good luck with “Apocalypse Babes”, Bella!
I seem to be issuing zombie advisaries today. Here is another one. If you fear underwater zombies, avoid Joss Ware’s books. They are great–but full of underwater zombies.
Noted, Charlie. Thanks for the PSA 😉
Okay, let’s try this again. Just got my power back.
First of all, Bella, terrific title! I’ll look forward to reading more about this series.
And secondly: Zombie advisories. :snert:
zombie advisories R US!
Wishing you kind power fairies.
But tridents look so cool! Oh well, I guess practicality beats fashion where zombie survival is concerned. Cool post 🙂
Welcome to the blog, Jon Mac.
Thanks 🙂
Trust me, The Zombie Survival Guide by Max Brooks already lives at my house. My 14-year-old requested it last year and insisted on reading parts of it to me.
Between that and listening to We’re Alive (love that podcast!), I’m feeling pretty good about my chances. Plus I can knit, crochet and sew, so I have skillz to take me beyond mere survival.