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I've Been Deader
Being a zombie is no picnic and it's one hell of a handicap in the romance department when you fall in love with a 'breather':
Aleta is a breather with short blonde hair and brown eyes - two of them! - and the whitest smile Fred has ever seen. Every day at a certain time she sits at her window, and every day he stands in the rubble across the street among a crowd of zombies waiting to break through the fence and eat her.
'You are beautiful, like an angel', he thinks, but all he can moan is, “Braaaiiinss."
Still, as zombies go, Fred's quite a catch. Underneath all the gangrene and rot, Fred is different. This girl will probably turn out to be yet another dead end, an infatuation, someone whose image he cannot get out of his mind and whose taste he cannot get out of his mouth, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
For breathers, it is always only a matter of time, however beautiful they are and whatever the government is assuring people.
Which makes Fred sad because he has a beautiful 11 year old son called Timmy, and Timmy may still be alive.
Aleta is a breather with short blonde hair and brown eyes - two of them! - and the whitest smile Fred has ever seen. Every day at a certain time she sits at her window, and every day he stands in the rubble across the street among a crowd of zombies waiting to break through the fence and eat her.
'You are beautiful, like an angel', he thinks, but all he can moan is, “Braaaiiinss."
Still, as zombies go, Fred's quite a catch. Underneath all the gangrene and rot, Fred is different. This girl will probably turn out to be yet another dead end, an infatuation, someone whose image he cannot get out of his mind and whose taste he cannot get out of his mouth, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
For breathers, it is always only a matter of time, however beautiful they are and whatever the government is assuring people.
Which makes Fred sad because he has a beautiful 11 year old son called Timmy, and Timmy may still be alive.
306 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
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164 people want to read
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dnf
August 6, 2012Review of I've Been Deader by Adam Sifre
One of my biggest pet peeves EVER is when I see a movie preview, and it looks cute and funny--a comedy--and then I go to the movie and it is depressing as sh*t and I want to fling myself off a bridge. Not cool. If your movie is depressing or intense or heavy or serious, the preview should not look like a comedy. That is false advertising.
Yeah, I know why people do this. To get folks to go see the freakin' movie. If folks thought the film was so depressing that they would curl up in the fetal position, no one would go. But I feel duped when that happens.
OK, now onto what is probably the strangest book I will read all year, and one that I am very conflicted about. It's I've Been Deader by Adam Sifre. The book blurb makes it look like a zombie romance/comedy. Here's the blurb...
Being a zombie is no picnic and it's one hell of a handicap in the romance department when you fall in love with a 'breather': Aleta is a breather with short blonde hair and brown eyes - two of them! - and the whitest smile Fred has ever seen. Every day at a certain time she sits at her window, and every day he stands in the rubble across the street among a crowd of zombies waiting to break through the fence and eat her. 'You are beautiful, like an angel', he thinks, but all he can moan is, “Braaaiiinss." Still, as zombies go, Fred's quite a catch. Underneath all the gangrene and rot, Fred is different. This girl will probably turn out to be yet another dead end, an infatuation, someone whose image he cannot get out of his mind and whose taste he cannot get out of his mouth, but the heart wants what the heart wants. For breathers, it is always only a matter of time, however beautiful they are and whatever the government is assuring people. Which makes Fred sad because he has a beautiful 11 year old son called Timmy, and Timmy may still be alive.
✯
This book was recommended on the Amazon boards (I realized later that it was the indie author himself rec'ing his own book). It was 99 cents. And I LOVE funny zombie stuff. I've seen several other so-called "zombie-romance-comedy" series, and I thought I would give this one a go. Here are my assorted observations about this book....
1. This is by far one of the best-written indie books I've ever read. Except for one minor head-hopping issue early in the book, it is incredibly well-written. No typos, no grammatical errors, and pitch-perfect writing. I'm impressed with Sifre's grasp of craft--this book reads like it's been written by a well-seasoned author.
2. The beginning of this book is bloody brilliant. It is crisp, snappy, funny. The pacing is perfect. There are a million hilarious one-liners. As many of you know, I am a huge fan of Shaun of the Dead. There is nothing better than blending comedy and horror when it's done right. When it's done right, it's the balls. And the beginning of this book was A+ all....the.....way.
3. Sigh. And then something happened. Sifre started throwing in a lot of POVs. I'm fine with that. I was getting a very strong Stephen King vibe. Very similar to The Stand, one of my favorite books. I love how SK has a ton of unconnected POVs at the beginning, and as the story threads come together, the reader gets to see how these seemingly unrelated characters and events are connected.
The pseudo-romance is actually nothing, and over with before it begins. Right at the beginning of the book. But the storyline in I've Been Deader is very engaging, and I couldn't wait to find out what happens.
That is until Sifre switched this book from comedy to horror. If you're going to blend 2 genres, you gotta blend them. The beginning was perfect. But once he left the humor behind and jumped totally into Stephen King grotesque/touching on paranormal/drug-addled, ultra violent, disturbing, with nary a bit of humor in sight, he lost me. I didn't sign up for that. I signed up for cute, funny, quirky.
Funny thing is, the horror part is also very good. If the book had maintained some consistency either way--either a funny horror bit, or a straight-up grotesque horror novel--it would have been great. But these 2 genres were not blended, they just switched half-way through the book.
I made it to about 80% through, and then I DNFed it. I no longer cared what happened to any of the freakin' characters.
4. So, I'm not sure I can actually rate this book. Based on the writing, the success of the comedy at the beginning and the success of the horror portion--separate from the rest of the novel--I would give it an "A" or 5 stars. But unfortunately, the huge disconnect between the beginning of this story and then second half, as well as the misleading book blurb, would give it a failing grade.
This is definitely a book with an identity crisis. But I am extremely impressed with Sifre's writing. He is very talented and I would try another one of his books.
5. The cover is so disgusting, I didn't feel right about posting it here. If you would like to see it (preferably BEFORE eating), here's the linkie.
Grade: DNF
Jonesing for Shaun of the Dead,
Penelope
One of my biggest pet peeves EVER is when I see a movie preview, and it looks cute and funny--a comedy--and then I go to the movie and it is depressing as sh*t and I want to fling myself off a bridge. Not cool. If your movie is depressing or intense or heavy or serious, the preview should not look like a comedy. That is false advertising.
Yeah, I know why people do this. To get folks to go see the freakin' movie. If folks thought the film was so depressing that they would curl up in the fetal position, no one would go. But I feel duped when that happens.
OK, now onto what is probably the strangest book I will read all year, and one that I am very conflicted about. It's I've Been Deader by Adam Sifre. The book blurb makes it look like a zombie romance/comedy. Here's the blurb...
Being a zombie is no picnic and it's one hell of a handicap in the romance department when you fall in love with a 'breather': Aleta is a breather with short blonde hair and brown eyes - two of them! - and the whitest smile Fred has ever seen. Every day at a certain time she sits at her window, and every day he stands in the rubble across the street among a crowd of zombies waiting to break through the fence and eat her. 'You are beautiful, like an angel', he thinks, but all he can moan is, “Braaaiiinss." Still, as zombies go, Fred's quite a catch. Underneath all the gangrene and rot, Fred is different. This girl will probably turn out to be yet another dead end, an infatuation, someone whose image he cannot get out of his mind and whose taste he cannot get out of his mouth, but the heart wants what the heart wants. For breathers, it is always only a matter of time, however beautiful they are and whatever the government is assuring people. Which makes Fred sad because he has a beautiful 11 year old son called Timmy, and Timmy may still be alive.
✯
This book was recommended on the Amazon boards (I realized later that it was the indie author himself rec'ing his own book). It was 99 cents. And I LOVE funny zombie stuff. I've seen several other so-called "zombie-romance-comedy" series, and I thought I would give this one a go. Here are my assorted observations about this book....
1. This is by far one of the best-written indie books I've ever read. Except for one minor head-hopping issue early in the book, it is incredibly well-written. No typos, no grammatical errors, and pitch-perfect writing. I'm impressed with Sifre's grasp of craft--this book reads like it's been written by a well-seasoned author.
2. The beginning of this book is bloody brilliant. It is crisp, snappy, funny. The pacing is perfect. There are a million hilarious one-liners. As many of you know, I am a huge fan of Shaun of the Dead. There is nothing better than blending comedy and horror when it's done right. When it's done right, it's the balls. And the beginning of this book was A+ all....the.....way.
3. Sigh. And then something happened. Sifre started throwing in a lot of POVs. I'm fine with that. I was getting a very strong Stephen King vibe. Very similar to The Stand, one of my favorite books. I love how SK has a ton of unconnected POVs at the beginning, and as the story threads come together, the reader gets to see how these seemingly unrelated characters and events are connected.
The pseudo-romance is actually nothing, and over with before it begins. Right at the beginning of the book. But the storyline in I've Been Deader is very engaging, and I couldn't wait to find out what happens.
That is until Sifre switched this book from comedy to horror. If you're going to blend 2 genres, you gotta blend them. The beginning was perfect. But once he left the humor behind and jumped totally into Stephen King grotesque/touching on paranormal/drug-addled, ultra violent, disturbing, with nary a bit of humor in sight, he lost me. I didn't sign up for that. I signed up for cute, funny, quirky.
Funny thing is, the horror part is also very good. If the book had maintained some consistency either way--either a funny horror bit, or a straight-up grotesque horror novel--it would have been great. But these 2 genres were not blended, they just switched half-way through the book.
I made it to about 80% through, and then I DNFed it. I no longer cared what happened to any of the freakin' characters.
4. So, I'm not sure I can actually rate this book. Based on the writing, the success of the comedy at the beginning and the success of the horror portion--separate from the rest of the novel--I would give it an "A" or 5 stars. But unfortunately, the huge disconnect between the beginning of this story and then second half, as well as the misleading book blurb, would give it a failing grade.
This is definitely a book with an identity crisis. But I am extremely impressed with Sifre's writing. He is very talented and I would try another one of his books.
5. The cover is so disgusting, I didn't feel right about posting it here. If you would like to see it (preferably BEFORE eating), here's the linkie.
Grade: DNF
Jonesing for Shaun of the Dead,
Penelope
August 12, 2016
Zombies books have never been my genre but...
There's something in this book that makes it different.
Sure, it has the usual gross out blood and guts, but damn...
This is the first time I've ever felt sympathetic to a zombie. How do you even do that Adam?
When you factor in Adam's biting ( groan) humor, and deadly sense of social satire, this book rises above the genre, to create it's own path in the world. There is plenty here for Zombie aficionados to love, but so much more.
Like Fred, It is a zombie book with braiiiins.
And a heart.
(Hopefully not belonging to anyone I know)
Well done Mister Sifre.
I'll be looking for the sequel.
Bob
There's something in this book that makes it different.
Sure, it has the usual gross out blood and guts, but damn...
This is the first time I've ever felt sympathetic to a zombie. How do you even do that Adam?
When you factor in Adam's biting ( groan) humor, and deadly sense of social satire, this book rises above the genre, to create it's own path in the world. There is plenty here for Zombie aficionados to love, but so much more.
Like Fred, It is a zombie book with braiiiins.
And a heart.
(Hopefully not belonging to anyone I know)
Well done Mister Sifre.
I'll be looking for the sequel.
Bob
March 5, 2012
I loved this book. It is hilarious and horrific at the same time which is some feat to pull off. Adam Sifre has a unique voice and presents the story in short, punchy bite-size chunks. Many of the chapters could easily stand alone as short stories, but the main story is gripping and pulls the reader along on a nail-biting journey - eventually leading to a near-perfect climax.
In short: I laughed, I cried, I threw up! - Satisfaction guaranteed.
In short: I laughed, I cried, I threw up! - Satisfaction guaranteed.
October 29, 2012
It's the best thing I've ever read and written.
http://www.amazon.com/Ive-Been-Deader...
You can read the first chapter here. http://bookblogs.ning.com/profiles/bl...#
The book has been picked up bybTaylor StreetnPublishing and will be released in July. I will of course keep you posted.
http://www.amazon.com/Ive-Been-Deader...
You can read the first chapter here. http://bookblogs.ning.com/profiles/bl...#
The book has been picked up bybTaylor StreetnPublishing and will be released in July. I will of course keep you posted.
May 27, 2012
I’ve Been Deader: Adam Sifre
Being undead never felt more alive. Fred's just an ordinary zombie until one day he learns a trick.
The undead had a good run at the beginning, but once the breathers get organized, it's only a matter of time before zombies go the way of pet rocks and sea monkeys. They need a hero. They need Fred. Fred is a natural dead leader with a flair for poetry and a fierce love for his son, Timmy. Unfortunately, as far as the undead are concerned, the only good Timmy is a dead Timmy.
Things look grim for the undead until Fred flies into a rage trying to make popcorn and discovers he has a talent for controlling zombies. Now the undead are organized and, like the unions, in a position to destroy America. Is there no one who can stop them? More importantly, do we want them to? Stick around, we'll have some fun.
I actually won “I‘ve Been Deader” on goodreads. I was so excited when I did. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this fantastic book Adam Sifre!!! I have never read a “zombie” book before, so this unique book was an awesome way to venture into zombie world.
Thanks again for the chance to be introduced to the zombies through “I‘ve Ben Deader.”
I absolutely loved this book!!! If this is an example of most zombie books, then I can say that “yup, I‘m now a fan” of zombie land…
Adam has an amazing concept in his writing style. I feel that some how I have a greater insight to a zombies life, and what they are and thus go thru in their life. (I think that’s a better way of saying it) of who they are really.
Yes, you’ll find all the creepy stuff like guts, (oh man that is just so yuck) and the gorey blood (which I most definitely excepted) that is part of the gross zombie life (I think, remember I‘m new to this) But, it was so different in a lot of ways than what you’d think would be associated with a zombie book.
How do you explain that you feel sad and bad for a zombie? That’s what I feel for poor Fred, such an “out of this world” kind of character!!!
As you read I’ve Been Deader, it will seem like you are reading a couple of books at the same time, yet they are all pulled together into this one spectacular novel.. (well done Adam) I wonder if others will feel the same way as I did?
Such a page turner. A MUST READ as far as I’m concerned!!
My rating: I give I’ve Been Deader a 4/5 Angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
Being undead never felt more alive. Fred's just an ordinary zombie until one day he learns a trick.
The undead had a good run at the beginning, but once the breathers get organized, it's only a matter of time before zombies go the way of pet rocks and sea monkeys. They need a hero. They need Fred. Fred is a natural dead leader with a flair for poetry and a fierce love for his son, Timmy. Unfortunately, as far as the undead are concerned, the only good Timmy is a dead Timmy.
Things look grim for the undead until Fred flies into a rage trying to make popcorn and discovers he has a talent for controlling zombies. Now the undead are organized and, like the unions, in a position to destroy America. Is there no one who can stop them? More importantly, do we want them to? Stick around, we'll have some fun.
I actually won “I‘ve Been Deader” on goodreads. I was so excited when I did. Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this fantastic book Adam Sifre!!! I have never read a “zombie” book before, so this unique book was an awesome way to venture into zombie world.
Thanks again for the chance to be introduced to the zombies through “I‘ve Ben Deader.”
I absolutely loved this book!!! If this is an example of most zombie books, then I can say that “yup, I‘m now a fan” of zombie land…
Adam has an amazing concept in his writing style. I feel that some how I have a greater insight to a zombies life, and what they are and thus go thru in their life. (I think that’s a better way of saying it) of who they are really.
Yes, you’ll find all the creepy stuff like guts, (oh man that is just so yuck) and the gorey blood (which I most definitely excepted) that is part of the gross zombie life (I think, remember I‘m new to this) But, it was so different in a lot of ways than what you’d think would be associated with a zombie book.
How do you explain that you feel sad and bad for a zombie? That’s what I feel for poor Fred, such an “out of this world” kind of character!!!
As you read I’ve Been Deader, it will seem like you are reading a couple of books at the same time, yet they are all pulled together into this one spectacular novel.. (well done Adam) I wonder if others will feel the same way as I did?
Such a page turner. A MUST READ as far as I’m concerned!!
My rating: I give I’ve Been Deader a 4/5 Angel stars
Angel Anne Reviews
February 12, 2014
There’s just something about this book… I would love it to be longer, that’s for sure! I love the lyrics at the beginning of each chapter, which are parodies of well known songs and artists (like ‘The Almost Breathers’). This book does have some laugh out bits like:
It has to be said, this book is something fresh. It sets you up for something (the blurb tells you about a zombie army) and then twists it. The short lived romance was amazing, as well. I thought we were going to have some strange romance between zombie and human, but no, when you’re a zombie romance doesn’t turn out too well apparently.
My full review is here
It has to be said, this book is something fresh. It sets you up for something (the blurb tells you about a zombie army) and then twists it. The short lived romance was amazing, as well. I thought we were going to have some strange romance between zombie and human, but no, when you’re a zombie romance doesn’t turn out too well apparently.
My full review is here
March 1, 2014
Ok, it wasn't made-me-wanna-puke horrible, but I can't say that I liked this book.
First off, you have no fucking idea what is going on. New character after new character and every now and then some "Braiiiiiins".
After like 30% a storyline starts to form. And it basically switches around between the Zombie mob and the left over "Breathers". However...some of the things happening didn't make any sense to me at all.
And then there was the ending...yeah...the ending that I couldn't quite follow either. A book two is apparently coming or already out - but I wont read that. My final words to this book: Braiiins...
First off, you have no fucking idea what is going on. New character after new character and every now and then some "Braiiiiiins".
After like 30% a storyline starts to form. And it basically switches around between the Zombie mob and the left over "Breathers". However...some of the things happening didn't make any sense to me at all.
And then there was the ending...yeah...the ending that I couldn't quite follow either. A book two is apparently coming or already out - but I wont read that. My final words to this book: Braiiins...
April 21, 2013
I can't give a review because I cannot get into this book, I don't see the point in a zombie being able to think but not talk, Huh?? really?? the zombie wants to say love and comes out as BRAINS?? No way, not my kind of read, I don't find it amusing and I do not see the humor in it. Hey, different strokes for different folks. You might like it, I sure didn't. I gave it a shot, I read a whole chapter, and had to force myself to READ that chapter, so I just gave up.
October 27, 2012
I managed to snag a copy of I've Been Deader on Amazon as a freebie - I'm quite glad I did.
It's a very unusual zombie apocalypse novel, and I've read a lot of them. It focuses more on the plight of the zombie than the plight of the survivor (though they are most definitely mentioned too). I enjoyed the characterisation; with the exception of Fred, one of the protagonists, who is a zombie from the start of the novel, the reader seems to be introduced to the characters when they are alive, and follow their progression through to death, and beyond. I rather liked the way that all the little stories all linked together too; at the beginning you couldn't really work out what one bit had to do with another until all the threads seemed to come together in a central story-rope.
I enjoyed the injection of dark humour contained within too. It is quite well written, and while not the best book I have ever read, quite an engaging read. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who likes a read within this genre, and especially while you can snag it for free!
It's a very unusual zombie apocalypse novel, and I've read a lot of them. It focuses more on the plight of the zombie than the plight of the survivor (though they are most definitely mentioned too). I enjoyed the characterisation; with the exception of Fred, one of the protagonists, who is a zombie from the start of the novel, the reader seems to be introduced to the characters when they are alive, and follow their progression through to death, and beyond. I rather liked the way that all the little stories all linked together too; at the beginning you couldn't really work out what one bit had to do with another until all the threads seemed to come together in a central story-rope.
I enjoyed the injection of dark humour contained within too. It is quite well written, and while not the best book I have ever read, quite an engaging read. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone who likes a read within this genre, and especially while you can snag it for free!
August 11, 2012
I enjoyed it.
Some of the beginning third frustrated me because it seemed irrelevant to the story, and I misattributed dialog beats to the wrong characters at times. I didn't find all of the characters' motivations believable, I never really attached emotionally to any of them, and found the lot to be pretty despicable people. (Intentionally, I think, but it was too thick for my taste--all of them?) Current event namedropping isn't really my thing, so I'm obviously biased.
I liked Fred and Timmy--but the former kind of lost it for me at the end, and I didn't buy the boy's motivations post-tunnel.
Yet still... This had a remarkable charm to it. It kept a grin on my face most of the time, and it made me laugh. It was definitely an enjoyable read, and there were some very interesting moments. Glad I bought it.
Some of the beginning third frustrated me because it seemed irrelevant to the story, and I misattributed dialog beats to the wrong characters at times. I didn't find all of the characters' motivations believable, I never really attached emotionally to any of them, and found the lot to be pretty despicable people. (Intentionally, I think, but it was too thick for my taste--all of them?) Current event namedropping isn't really my thing, so I'm obviously biased.
I liked Fred and Timmy--but the former kind of lost it for me at the end, and I didn't buy the boy's motivations post-tunnel.
Yet still... This had a remarkable charm to it. It kept a grin on my face most of the time, and it made me laugh. It was definitely an enjoyable read, and there were some very interesting moments. Glad I bought it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2012
I've Been Deader was a last breath of fresh air. With so many zombie apocalypse novels out there right now, it's hard to imagine one so uniquely different that it's worth reading over the rest. This is that novel. I won't go into detail about the backstory, as I'm sure plenty others will/have, but I initially read most of this one on Authonomy and was literally the first to buy my copy. My only regret is that I didn't get back here sooner to review it.
Again, wonderful, unique take on the concept of zombies and who they are. I'll be vigilantly watching for Mr. Sifre's next work, and I can only suggest that you catch this one in time to be ready for the next as well.
Again, wonderful, unique take on the concept of zombies and who they are. I'll be vigilantly watching for Mr. Sifre's next work, and I can only suggest that you catch this one in time to be ready for the next as well.
July 9, 2012
Funny and creepy at once. A zombie protagonist made for an interesting POV, but wasn't carried through the entire book. Could he have carried the story? We wouldn't have the backgrounds and knowledge of the rest of the world if the author had stuck with just him. Brief vignettes told tales of how some of the undead became that way. Several good ideas were also passed by, but like the survivors we had to keep running without having the time for careful examination. I would read another book by this author.
I did receive this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
I did receive this book as part of a Goodreads giveaway.
January 30, 2018
Let me start by saying I am not one to read scary/zombie/horror type stuff because I am a total scaredey-cat. This was my first foray into the zombie genre and the introduction was gentle. It's an entertaining read and more funny than scary. Some parts made me laugh-out-loud and that alone made it worth reading. I would now a) read another zombie book, b) read another Adam Sifre book and c) buy another as a gift (which I did) for my son. Try it. You'll like it.
August 30, 2012
Very enjoyable zombie novel, I like the way you see things from the zombie's point of view. When I started this book it looked like it was several differnet stories in one, but all of them merged and developed into a nice plot. Very easy read fast paced plenty of action gore and gore, I recomend it to all the die hard Zombie fans, will defo read the second in the series due out soon.
July 26, 2012
Clever story, sweet and at times disgusting, but oh, so different. Thank you for being a different sort of zombie story.
February 22, 2013
Love this zombie tale! I am sorry to see this funny, creepy, disturbing book end. My full review is on my website @ www.eReaderPerks.com.
October 2, 2012
Fun read! I enjoyed it.
May 24, 2013
3 1/2 leaning toward 4 stars.
I’ve Been Deader: I liked it but was left…wanting…a bit.
First off, Sifre’s writing style was excellent, very few typos, good sentence structure and the pacing was well done. No boring moments, plenty of action that swept me along. Lots of humor, which, if one does not agree with what appears to be the author’s nicely cynical political views there could be cause for some annoyance, but regardless there was good “take that” writing involved that made this a worthwhile read. Lots of one-liners, posturing and profound thoughts that came out as…well…”Braaaaainsss”. Definitely one of the funniest aspects there, in particular when you start expecting it.
To recap the premise, this story is about zombie Fred, who discovers he can still think, and possesses another rather unique ability you’ll have to discover yourself when you read it.
Though Fred tries to maintain his humanity, his body does not really listen to him anymore, which definitely created a variety of hilarious moments. Excellent comedy in that regard, showing Sifre’s skill as an author.
I am sorry to say that the general plot was a bit vague to me until much later on in the story. A few hints in the beginning would have been nice, but as it was, in the beginning I was left wandering in a post-apocalyptic world without much purpose. It was entertaining, but wandering nonetheless. I like plots to be straight cut and obvious, but that’s just me.
Main characters. I would think that was Fred the thinking zombie. But then there was Jon, average at first, and psycho extraordinaire (to me anyway) later on. Personally I would have liked to see some “hero material” in this story. I am old fashioned that way, and prefer one or two characters that I really like, rather than a whole bunch of characters that each have a few likeable aspects, but aren’t, like, WOW! Which was the case in this particular story. Regretfully, except for Timmy, who wasn’t really a lead until further on in the book, most characters had traits that made me unable to root for any of them. If that was the author’s intention (a possibility, considering his wonderfully whacky sense of humor) he was highly successful.
For a quick, funny zombie read, with good quality writing this is definitely the book for you. If you’re more traditional in your tastes when it concerns a good zombie book, you might want to give this one a pass. I am curious how the rest of the story will go, so the open ending certainly served its purpose
I’ve Been Deader: I liked it but was left…wanting…a bit.
First off, Sifre’s writing style was excellent, very few typos, good sentence structure and the pacing was well done. No boring moments, plenty of action that swept me along. Lots of humor, which, if one does not agree with what appears to be the author’s nicely cynical political views there could be cause for some annoyance, but regardless there was good “take that” writing involved that made this a worthwhile read. Lots of one-liners, posturing and profound thoughts that came out as…well…”Braaaaainsss”. Definitely one of the funniest aspects there, in particular when you start expecting it.
To recap the premise, this story is about zombie Fred, who discovers he can still think, and possesses another rather unique ability you’ll have to discover yourself when you read it.
Though Fred tries to maintain his humanity, his body does not really listen to him anymore, which definitely created a variety of hilarious moments. Excellent comedy in that regard, showing Sifre’s skill as an author.
I am sorry to say that the general plot was a bit vague to me until much later on in the story. A few hints in the beginning would have been nice, but as it was, in the beginning I was left wandering in a post-apocalyptic world without much purpose. It was entertaining, but wandering nonetheless. I like plots to be straight cut and obvious, but that’s just me.
Main characters. I would think that was Fred the thinking zombie. But then there was Jon, average at first, and psycho extraordinaire (to me anyway) later on. Personally I would have liked to see some “hero material” in this story. I am old fashioned that way, and prefer one or two characters that I really like, rather than a whole bunch of characters that each have a few likeable aspects, but aren’t, like, WOW! Which was the case in this particular story. Regretfully, except for Timmy, who wasn’t really a lead until further on in the book, most characters had traits that made me unable to root for any of them. If that was the author’s intention (a possibility, considering his wonderfully whacky sense of humor) he was highly successful.
For a quick, funny zombie read, with good quality writing this is definitely the book for you. If you’re more traditional in your tastes when it concerns a good zombie book, you might want to give this one a pass. I am curious how the rest of the story will go, so the open ending certainly served its purpose
July 18, 2012
I've Been Deader by Adam Sifre is a zombie book. You may groan audibly at the prospect of yet more zombies but it's actually rather different. Pitched as a comedy horror by its creator, the comedy is black, but I found it much more serious than I'd expected, especially after the halfway point.
It took me a little while to get into the book, I felt the opening was more slapstick than the rest of the story - I thought it was going to be some sort of bizarre "good" zombie love story at the outset, but boy was I wrong.
Adam establishes the rules of his undead horde quickly - they are much like all the other zombies we know and love, but there's some brilliant, gory description to prop them up. There's also Fred, one of the primary protagonists who, as it happens, is a zombie himself.
The difference between Fred, (45, pot belly and limp, bitten by clerk), is that he's a thinking zombie who remembers his past life. He also learns he can control other zombies. The problems, though, are evident. He has no hang-ups over eating brains like his brothers, he enjoys them as much as your next zombie. He's also falling apart and to top it off, he thinks he's fallen in love with Aleta, a "breather" (human, not zombie), with amazing eyes. Also, "breathers" are fewer and farther between so he's hungry and of late they appear to be fighting back; it's almost as if they're going to win the war.
I enjoyed reading about the initial spread of the virus immensely - George Potts the overly-friendly zombie postman and also scenes like Janet and the severely hen-pecked Stanley and also the penis incident. I did feel we were, at times, learning about slightly throwaway characters when we perhaps should have been concentrating more on the main players, but this changed as the story progressed and on the whole I thought the descent into madness and anarchy in the world of zombies was well played.
We are also notably treated to Jon Tanner's evil descent (a truly mad bastard) and Timmy, a kid heading for what could possibly send the dead back to the grave and a reunion with his dad, who just happens to be a zombie.
Overall I've Been Deader is a great, snappy read and suitably different from similar books. I look forward to what Adam Sifre will cook up next - by the looks of it, a prequel.
It took me a little while to get into the book, I felt the opening was more slapstick than the rest of the story - I thought it was going to be some sort of bizarre "good" zombie love story at the outset, but boy was I wrong.
Adam establishes the rules of his undead horde quickly - they are much like all the other zombies we know and love, but there's some brilliant, gory description to prop them up. There's also Fred, one of the primary protagonists who, as it happens, is a zombie himself.
The difference between Fred, (45, pot belly and limp, bitten by clerk), is that he's a thinking zombie who remembers his past life. He also learns he can control other zombies. The problems, though, are evident. He has no hang-ups over eating brains like his brothers, he enjoys them as much as your next zombie. He's also falling apart and to top it off, he thinks he's fallen in love with Aleta, a "breather" (human, not zombie), with amazing eyes. Also, "breathers" are fewer and farther between so he's hungry and of late they appear to be fighting back; it's almost as if they're going to win the war.
I enjoyed reading about the initial spread of the virus immensely - George Potts the overly-friendly zombie postman and also scenes like Janet and the severely hen-pecked Stanley and also the penis incident. I did feel we were, at times, learning about slightly throwaway characters when we perhaps should have been concentrating more on the main players, but this changed as the story progressed and on the whole I thought the descent into madness and anarchy in the world of zombies was well played.
We are also notably treated to Jon Tanner's evil descent (a truly mad bastard) and Timmy, a kid heading for what could possibly send the dead back to the grave and a reunion with his dad, who just happens to be a zombie.
Overall I've Been Deader is a great, snappy read and suitably different from similar books. I look forward to what Adam Sifre will cook up next - by the looks of it, a prequel.
October 12, 2012
The following review is my opinion and not a paid review. I was given a copy of I’ve Been Deader from the author for a review via Bewitching Book Tours.
I’ve Been Deader is a book about zombies. It is unlike any book about zombies that I have ever read. It is about this zombie named Fred. Fred can think, read and he learns that he can control the undead. He is on a mission and his mission is to find his son Timmy.
Fred figures out that the "breathers" and the zombies are in a war and that the "breathers" are winning. But after he learns that he can control the zombies he rounds up himself an army of undead to help him fight against the "breathers". He can't let the undead die out he has to win this war.
Fred sees a "breather" and falls in love with her. He goes to see her so that he can see if they can have some type of relationship. But all "breathers" are afraid of the zombies. All most do is run away screaming. The "breathers" have all almost been wiped out. And the zombies are very hungry.
I really loved reading I've Been Deader it being so different from any other book with zombies in it that I have read. I loved that we got to see what the zombies were thinking and feeling. We also got to know about their life like who they were and what kind of person they were before they became a member of the undead.
Adam Sifre is an amazing writer and has a brilliant imagination. One that I really admire. I've Been Deader is very different than other books about zombies. But if you like reading about zombies or just love a good horror story then you would love I've Been Deader.
I would like to thank Adam Sifre and Bewitching Book Tours for the wonderful opportunity to read I've Been Deader.
I’ve Been Deader is a book about zombies. It is unlike any book about zombies that I have ever read. It is about this zombie named Fred. Fred can think, read and he learns that he can control the undead. He is on a mission and his mission is to find his son Timmy.
Fred figures out that the "breathers" and the zombies are in a war and that the "breathers" are winning. But after he learns that he can control the zombies he rounds up himself an army of undead to help him fight against the "breathers". He can't let the undead die out he has to win this war.
Fred sees a "breather" and falls in love with her. He goes to see her so that he can see if they can have some type of relationship. But all "breathers" are afraid of the zombies. All most do is run away screaming. The "breathers" have all almost been wiped out. And the zombies are very hungry.
I really loved reading I've Been Deader it being so different from any other book with zombies in it that I have read. I loved that we got to see what the zombies were thinking and feeling. We also got to know about their life like who they were and what kind of person they were before they became a member of the undead.
Adam Sifre is an amazing writer and has a brilliant imagination. One that I really admire. I've Been Deader is very different than other books about zombies. But if you like reading about zombies or just love a good horror story then you would love I've Been Deader.
I would like to thank Adam Sifre and Bewitching Book Tours for the wonderful opportunity to read I've Been Deader.
October 27, 2012
As usual for me, I am going to give you the bad first...
1. I cannot believe a twelve year old is all that well read in Robert Frost...especially not one who spends all of his time playing his Nintendo DS. All that was missing was And...literally... (And) Miles to go before we sleep. It just immediately struck me as a blatant rip off of Robert Frosts 'Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening'.
2. Sometimes the chapter jumps didn't make any sense what so ever. As you got further into the book, it became easier to figure out why he had put some of this stuff into the book...but it wasn't apparent AT that time.
The Good.
1. I wanted to hate this book...however, it was really well written (other than being confused by the jumping around with the chapters). It was an engaging story that kept me interested. There were one or two parts that I kind of glazed over but, over all it was a good book that I would recommend to others.
2. It is a very different look at zombies. A fresh take on the Z-scene is a good thing to me. As a rabid zombie fan, it was a curious story and gives the readers a different view of the brainless, flesh-eating, monsters.
3. Though I was a little disappointed in the ending, it specifies that there is a part two...that I am sure will explain all of the gaps in the story because, it is a prequel.
1. I cannot believe a twelve year old is all that well read in Robert Frost...especially not one who spends all of his time playing his Nintendo DS. All that was missing was And...literally... (And) Miles to go before we sleep. It just immediately struck me as a blatant rip off of Robert Frosts 'Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening'.
2. Sometimes the chapter jumps didn't make any sense what so ever. As you got further into the book, it became easier to figure out why he had put some of this stuff into the book...but it wasn't apparent AT that time.
The Good.
1. I wanted to hate this book...however, it was really well written (other than being confused by the jumping around with the chapters). It was an engaging story that kept me interested. There were one or two parts that I kind of glazed over but, over all it was a good book that I would recommend to others.
2. It is a very different look at zombies. A fresh take on the Z-scene is a good thing to me. As a rabid zombie fan, it was a curious story and gives the readers a different view of the brainless, flesh-eating, monsters.
3. Though I was a little disappointed in the ending, it specifies that there is a part two...that I am sure will explain all of the gaps in the story because, it is a prequel.
September 16, 2020
This is an entertaining, well written, affectionate piss take of the zombie apocalypse genre, seen primarily through the eyes of a still conscious zombie locked in his rotting body and unwillingly controlled by zombie urges, as well as by a few sexual urges remembered from life. Our protagonist discovers a few zombies, like him, have developed random superpowers, and he gets them organised to take over the world.
It’s an episodic read, effectively a bunch of short stories that eventually mesh together, describing the demise of a wide range of American stereotypes, which allows the author to parody a wide range of pet peeves outside of the zombie genre. This is very true to the George Romero parody of consumerism and other American ills.
Some episodes are hits, others misses. Overall, this is an interesting take on the genre, well out of the mainstream, and it gleefully takes down all of the illogical tropes that litter the vast majority of zombie stories out there. It’s good although not good enough to revisit often as the central one joke premise does get old. I have reread it a few years after the first time to write this review, but that will be it.
It’s an episodic read, effectively a bunch of short stories that eventually mesh together, describing the demise of a wide range of American stereotypes, which allows the author to parody a wide range of pet peeves outside of the zombie genre. This is very true to the George Romero parody of consumerism and other American ills.
Some episodes are hits, others misses. Overall, this is an interesting take on the genre, well out of the mainstream, and it gleefully takes down all of the illogical tropes that litter the vast majority of zombie stories out there. It’s good although not good enough to revisit often as the central one joke premise does get old. I have reread it a few years after the first time to write this review, but that will be it.
August 2, 2012
I read IBD when it was on Authonomy and I loved it. Adam has a huge facility for humour and story telling. Fred is a lovable zombie and the humour is infectious, but Adam also has a gripping and sometimes horrible (as in horror filled, not poorly done:)) story to tell and he does so in masterful fashion. Adam Sifre is a talented and very funny writer, with a very interesting way of looking at things. Highly recommend this book and anything else he writes - you won't be disappointed!
September 9, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Adam writes with wit and style. The format is almost a series of short stories rather than a continuous tale, but that works really well with this material.
Great, if gruesome, fun.
Great, if gruesome, fun.
July 24, 2016
Based on the description I expected a humorous love story, but it was more like The Stand but with zombies. Much darker than I thought it would be. The ending was too quick and kinda disappointing; it wasn't resolved as neatly as it could have been. Overall, though, a decent quick afternoon read.
March 23, 2013
I really liked this book, there are a lot of new and very good ideas ... but it just feels a bit rushed towards the end
Read
October 22, 2015Did not finish
Want to read
January 23, 2013Downloaded a handful of freebies for the Kindle, this is one of 'em.
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