What do you think?
Rate this book
Zom-B #5
ZOM-B Baby
How do you know if you're working for a lunatic?
Where do you go when you've run out of people to trust?
Have you ever heard an undead baby scream?
B Smith is out of her comfort zone . . .
When B Smith turns her back on Dr Oystein and strikes out alone, she is shocked to meet the baby from her nightmares – a strange, creepy, zombie baby . . .
Where do you go when you've run out of people to trust?
Have you ever heard an undead baby scream?
B Smith is out of her comfort zone . . .
When B Smith turns her back on Dr Oystein and strikes out alone, she is shocked to meet the baby from her nightmares – a strange, creepy, zombie baby . . .
220 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2013
56 people are currently reading
1928 people want to read
About the author
Darren Shan
243 books8,267 followersLibrarian's note: Also writes books for adults under the name Darren Dash. And in the past he has released books for adults under the names D.B. Shan and Darren O'Shaughnessy.
Darren Shan (born July 2, 1972 in London, England) is the pen name of the Irish author Darren O'Shaughnessy, as well as the name of the protagonist of his book series The Saga of Darren Shan, also known as The Cirque Du Freak Series in the United States. He is the author of the series The Demonata, The Saga of Larten Crepsley, and Zom-B. He has also released the stand-alone novel, The Thin Executioner, and the stand-alone short novels, Koyasan, and Hagurosan. Plus, for adults, he released The City Trilogy (originally under the name of D.B. Shan), and Lady of the Shades..
Darren Shan (born July 2, 1972 in London, England) is the pen name of the Irish author Darren O'Shaughnessy, as well as the name of the protagonist of his book series The Saga of Darren Shan, also known as The Cirque Du Freak Series in the United States. He is the author of the series The Demonata, The Saga of Larten Crepsley, and Zom-B. He has also released the stand-alone novel, The Thin Executioner, and the stand-alone short novels, Koyasan, and Hagurosan. Plus, for adults, he released The City Trilogy (originally under the name of D.B. Shan), and Lady of the Shades..
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
December 10, 2020
Okay, it just got weirder
I really, really like the premise.
Becky "B" Smith starts as a semi-racist ne'er-do-well. She knows racism is wrong but she spent so many years under the thumb of her bigoted father that it's difficult for her to separate what she parroted back (to avoid beatings) and what she actually believed.
Since becoming a zombie, she's become emancipated from her father, has had to develop her own sense of righteousness and morals, and experienced so, so many situations that forced her break down her racist tendencies.
It's refreshing to have a heroine who actually learns and develops - opposed to the cookie-cutter defenders-of-all-things-good we typically get.
However, HOWEVER, what the mess is happening to this plot?
1) I'm really, REALLY getting tired of how every character we meet...meets an untimely end.
2) The weird baby-things are back. At this point, I don't get how they contribute to the plot other than a general sense of creepiness.
3) The zombie-dog with supernatural strength now has deadly, retractable claws? What the what.
Ah well. Win some, lose some. Still invested in this series and am looking forward to the next book.
Audiobook Comments
Read by Emma Gavin and she did a great job. Really enjoyed her take on this series.
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
I really, really like the premise.
Becky "B" Smith starts as a semi-racist ne'er-do-well. She knows racism is wrong but she spent so many years under the thumb of her bigoted father that it's difficult for her to separate what she parroted back (to avoid beatings) and what she actually believed.
Since becoming a zombie, she's become emancipated from her father, has had to develop her own sense of righteousness and morals, and experienced so, so many situations that forced her break down her racist tendencies.
It's refreshing to have a heroine who actually learns and develops - opposed to the cookie-cutter defenders-of-all-things-good we typically get.
However, HOWEVER, what the mess is happening to this plot?
1) I'm really, REALLY getting tired of how every character we meet...meets an untimely end.
2) The weird baby-things are back. At this point, I don't get how they contribute to the plot other than a general sense of creepiness.
3) The zombie-dog with supernatural strength now has deadly, retractable claws? What the what.
Ah well. Win some, lose some. Still invested in this series and am looking forward to the next book.
Audiobook Comments
Read by Emma Gavin and she did a great job. Really enjoyed her take on this series.
YouTube | Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat @miranda_reads
February 14, 2018
Not sure what exactly I was expecting but it definately wasn't that 😨
January 5, 2020
b seems to have the worst luck in the world.
May 21, 2017
Actual Rating: 3.5
This was an interesting read. This book was a bit less exciting that the last book. I thought B was not doing that much in this book. However, I have to say B is now one of my favourite heroines. I think she is turning out to be a great character. I felt this book dragged a bit, but it was still better than the three books. The baby stuff near the end was a bit weird. The series is better than I thought it would be, I am glad I decided to give books 2-12 a shot. I can't wait to read Book 6 and the rest of the series. Overall, a great read.
This was an interesting read. This book was a bit less exciting that the last book. I thought B was not doing that much in this book. However, I have to say B is now one of my favourite heroines. I think she is turning out to be a great character. I felt this book dragged a bit, but it was still better than the three books. The baby stuff near the end was a bit weird. The series is better than I thought it would be, I am glad I decided to give books 2-12 a shot. I can't wait to read Book 6 and the rest of the series. Overall, a great read.
February 7, 2021
جدا از داستان و اتفاقات نفسگیر و جذاب این جلد
موضوعات باوری و اعتقادی که بیان شد رو دوست داشتم، و این کشمکش درونی شخصیت اصلی با خودش بر سر این موضوع
موضوعات باوری و اعتقادی که بیان شد رو دوست داشتم، و این کشمکش درونی شخصیت اصلی با خودش بر سر این موضوع
November 19, 2013
I'm beginning to think this series isn't for me. I'm interested in the ideas and the world, but am starting to get very frustrated with the fact that the books are so short there's no real story progression in any book. I'd probably enjoy it better if I had waited until the series was finished and read them all in an omnibus edition.
Like most of the other books in this series is seems like by the time the story starts moving the book is finished. This book sees B fighting with herself over really joining the Angels or not. She likes their mission, but has difficulties with following anyone who has motives and beliefs that don't completely fit with hers. Most of the book covers B trying to find where she fits in.
I will say, the books to this point haven't been that scary to me, but Shan manages to crank the horror factor up to 11 with the end of this book.
I'll give the next book a shot, but if we don't see some decent plot progression I might have to call it quits.
Like most of the other books in this series is seems like by the time the story starts moving the book is finished. This book sees B fighting with herself over really joining the Angels or not. She likes their mission, but has difficulties with following anyone who has motives and beliefs that don't completely fit with hers. Most of the book covers B trying to find where she fits in.
I will say, the books to this point haven't been that scary to me, but Shan manages to crank the horror factor up to 11 with the end of this book.
I'll give the next book a shot, but if we don't see some decent plot progression I might have to call it quits.
March 18, 2019
I just finished Zom-B Baby by Darren Shah. And it was freaking amazing.
It is the 5th book in the Zom-B series, which is a zombie apocalyptic series.
Rating: 4/5 🌟
So if you guys haven't read the first 4 books then stop reading this coz It might spoil those books for you.
The story starts where the 4th book ended, when Dr Oystein told Brian that god spoke to him regarding this attack of zombies.
Brian found it really hard to believe this story and leaves the country hall because she think that Dr. Oystein is out of his mind.
If you are a fan of zombies you should definitely read it. It's quite gruesome and bloody.
The writing is really simple and easy. So I think anyone will be able to understand it quickly and easily.
It is the 5th book in the Zom-B series, which is a zombie apocalyptic series.
Rating: 4/5 🌟
So if you guys haven't read the first 4 books then stop reading this coz It might spoil those books for you.
The story starts where the 4th book ended, when Dr Oystein told Brian that god spoke to him regarding this attack of zombies.
Brian found it really hard to believe this story and leaves the country hall because she think that Dr. Oystein is out of his mind.
If you are a fan of zombies you should definitely read it. It's quite gruesome and bloody.
The writing is really simple and easy. So I think anyone will be able to understand it quickly and easily.
June 23, 2020
Enkele voorspelbare elementen (mede door de titel), enkele goede verrassingen (zoals het einde). De scene bij het London Eye vond ik erg leuk.
Het verhaal loopt gewoon lekker vlot door met voldoende leuke korte scenes om het boek leuk te houden en voldoende langere-termijn-ontwikkelingen om de serie interessant te houden. En uiteraard weer heerlijk vlot geschreven, en ik blijf de illustraties ook erg cool vinden!
Het verhaal loopt gewoon lekker vlot door met voldoende leuke korte scenes om het boek leuk te houden en voldoende langere-termijn-ontwikkelingen om de serie interessant te houden. En uiteraard weer heerlijk vlot geschreven, en ik blijf de illustraties ook erg cool vinden!
March 2, 2018
This one was too slow at first for me. Nothing happened in the first half! B is just torn on the information she was given at the end of the previous book and goes around getting others opinions. That's it! Lots of pondering! Now when she once again hits the streets things get more interesting and we get to see a familiar face once again (YAY!). The title "Baby" doesn't come into play until the very end. But it is disturbing! Rage's character plays a slightly different role in this ne that has me very unsure what to now think of him.
October 25, 2018
This Zom-B series has so much going on. They are all short and fun reads, but there is an underlying heart to them, including a social message. Shan has begun to transcend the normal everyday Horror/Action book, and move into what makes good horror stories great. I'll pull a parallel with Night of the Living Dead, because they're both about zombies. In Night of the Living Dead, we have class war, racism, and social commentary as to where America was moving as a society. In the Zom-B series we have all the same constructs (although in a different way), which make it much more provocative. The best part is, it's a YA book, so to lay that kind of ground work for kids is a perfect way to introduce them to the genre and critical thinking.
In this book, we continue of with the story, but progress into the mystery of what is actually happening in this post apocalyptic London. I wanted to catch a glimpse of Mr. Dowling, but I think this one was all about set up, and payoff for scenes in the first book. The next one is called "Gladiators", so I'm excited to see some action, and maybe a little bit of a reveal.
In this book, we continue of with the story, but progress into the mystery of what is actually happening in this post apocalyptic London. I wanted to catch a glimpse of Mr. Dowling, but I think this one was all about set up, and payoff for scenes in the first book. The next one is called "Gladiators", so I'm excited to see some action, and maybe a little bit of a reveal.
February 16, 2017
This one got interesting! I kept waiting for the baby to show up, because--hello!--Zom-B BABY and was fully expecting to be creeped out beyond belief. Besides only glancing at the picture for less than a second, it really wasn't as bad as I was expecting! If anything I was more creeped out a couple books ago when
Really want to read the next one now!
Really want to read the next one now!
November 23, 2018
Keeping up the interesting twists and turns and rich concept building.
September 30, 2013
(Spoilers for Zom-B #1-#4 but spoiler free for this book)
I'm a little frustrated by the format of the Zom-B series as it is really slow. This is the fifth book but it feels like we have barely got into the main story. If this was a series of fewer, longer novels a lot of the sections in the early books wouldn't have made the cut.
That said, this is a great read. It almost entirely sees B reflect on what she was told in Zom-B Angels as she wonders if she is really on the side of God against the devil. There is lots of religious debate in here and B is forced to consider what she really believes in.
The only bit of plot progression involves the titular baby as a baby of the type from B's dream turns up in real life. Things get creepy then.
In this book Shan really gives time for B to consider what she believes and who she is after the events of the first four books. It would have been nice to see the story develop further but this book is all about the character. A good read if you are following the story but I'm desperate for the plot to develop.
I'm a little frustrated by the format of the Zom-B series as it is really slow. This is the fifth book but it feels like we have barely got into the main story. If this was a series of fewer, longer novels a lot of the sections in the early books wouldn't have made the cut.
That said, this is a great read. It almost entirely sees B reflect on what she was told in Zom-B Angels as she wonders if she is really on the side of God against the devil. There is lots of religious debate in here and B is forced to consider what she really believes in.
The only bit of plot progression involves the titular baby as a baby of the type from B's dream turns up in real life. Things get creepy then.
In this book Shan really gives time for B to consider what she believes and who she is after the events of the first four books. It would have been nice to see the story develop further but this book is all about the character. A good read if you are following the story but I'm desperate for the plot to develop.
November 26, 2015
This book gave me chills and such eerie feeling. The starting wasn't bad at all, it's just, maybe it lacks of a bit explanation and metaphor (i know this is a an eerie book, but gawd, please put some metaphors, i felt like reading a kiddo book y'know). Even though the book wasn't that thick, it took me literally 3 weeks too finish it.
First, maybe it's because of the cover, the baby with his teeth looked like a shark. At some point I did really thought that his mom had made out with a shark or somewhat. Even when I am halfway into the book, STILL NO EERIE OR SCARY OR THE CHILLS! I didn't get the chills down my spine until the last, LAST CHAPTER!
The characters are too dull even though I know this book shouldn't have such a strong female character or what. But please, they are too boring for me. Anyway, 3 Stars.
First, maybe it's because of the cover, the baby with his teeth looked like a shark. At some point I did really thought that his mom had made out with a shark or somewhat. Even when I am halfway into the book, STILL NO EERIE OR SCARY OR THE CHILLS! I didn't get the chills down my spine until the last, LAST CHAPTER!
The characters are too dull even though I know this book shouldn't have such a strong female character or what. But please, they are too boring for me. Anyway, 3 Stars.
June 26, 2016
That cover...it's just so disgusting and freaky!!! WHY!
Review:
I actually loved the slow-paced nature of the plot in this book. I really enjoy what Darren Shan is doing with this series. He is throwing in lots of ethical and moral dilemmas that characters have to go through, which in turn becomes a moral lesson for the readers. Very well-done.
Favorite quote:"I've always seen God as a massive diamond with thousands- maybe millions- of faces. We get a different view of the diamond, depending on which angle we look at it from. But there must be something there, otherwise what are we all looking at?"
Review:
I actually loved the slow-paced nature of the plot in this book. I really enjoy what Darren Shan is doing with this series. He is throwing in lots of ethical and moral dilemmas that characters have to go through, which in turn becomes a moral lesson for the readers. Very well-done.
Favorite quote:"I've always seen God as a massive diamond with thousands- maybe millions- of faces. We get a different view of the diamond, depending on which angle we look at it from. But there must be something there, otherwise what are we all looking at?"
November 16, 2013
In the 5th Zom-B book written by horror master, Darren Shan, Zom-B embraces her decision to leave the Angels, not attracted to their mission. As she journeys through a ravaged London, B comes across an old friend and a horrible discovery.
The short release span of these books makes it hard to forget details, which is good for a reader juggling so many books. That's a reason why I didn't have to struggle to remember a character brought back from two books before. The ending to this book was a bit confusing as I'm not sure where they're going to go. I liked the reintroduction of Timothy, and I really like that no two books have a bunch or repetition.
The short release span of these books makes it hard to forget details, which is good for a reader juggling so many books. That's a reason why I didn't have to struggle to remember a character brought back from two books before. The ending to this book was a bit confusing as I'm not sure where they're going to go. I liked the reintroduction of Timothy, and I really like that no two books have a bunch or repetition.
April 10, 2017
While this series isn't a favorite, I enjoy it enough to keep going. They are fast, easy reads with a different take on zombie lore.
I like that in this one B is learning to take some responsibility for her actions and trying to find a better path for herself. I like that she anguishes over her doubts of the world and lets them weigh on her decisions.
Looking forward to were those decisions lead her soon.
I like that in this one B is learning to take some responsibility for her actions and trying to find a better path for herself. I like that she anguishes over her doubts of the world and lets them weigh on her decisions.
Looking forward to were those decisions lead her soon.
December 1, 2015
This book was amazing because it had the right amount of scare and action and it also was cool because the babies that she always dreams about is in it but this time it is only ne bebe.
July 11, 2017
I'm incredibly torn with this series. I LOVE zombies, I generally love Darren Shan's books, and I love the concept of this one, but I feel like I'm watching water circle a drain and just waiting for it to finally fall through. The story is developing so slowly that I just can't get into it and get excited about it, plus B isn't a particularly likable character so I find myself just sort of following without caring what happens to B. It's disappointing because given how much I love Darren Shan's books, and zombies, I expected this to be my new favorite series.
I'm going to keep reading because I can see all the parts of the story that are building to something interesting, but I have a feeling it's going to take me a long while to finish the series because I just can't get enthusiastic about the books yet. Parts of them are really fun and interesting, but a lot of it is just B learning new information here and there without any real danger or conflict that threatens B. There are a lot of moral dilemmas and interesting discussions on that front, but I'm still struggling to get into the stories because there's a lot of talking and not a lot of larger plot development going on. I feel like each book has a small section where we get a threat to B, but then nothing comes of it and it's just B wandering around learning things again. With the exception of the first book, every book so far is B relatively safe learning about the world, minor confrontation that results in no real change, and then B wandering around learning about the world again.
I sort of wonder if I read this series as one large book if it'd pay off better because it would feel like a natural story with a character learning something that moves the plot forward then having a peaceful time before a minor confrontation, then a peaceful time, minor confrontation, etc until the big plot moment. But because of the way the story is broken into smaller books it feels like constant disappointment. Like I'm given a chapter or two at a time and then nothing really is solved or reaches a head so I have to dig around and find the next 'chapter' to find more. The final three books in this series will probably be phenomenal because it will read like the final act of a novel, but getting there in this method is sort of disappointing and feels strenuous instead of fun.
I do want to say that Darren Shan's writing is good as always, and the concept of the story is wonderful, it's just the pacing of these small books that I feel is doing it a disservice. If you look at them as a whole it would really work as one long novel, but individually it's just too minor happening in these early ones to really feel the satisfaction that reading a good book should give you. I'm totally expecting the final few books in the series to pay off, though, if I can get to them.
I'm going to keep reading because I can see all the parts of the story that are building to something interesting, but I have a feeling it's going to take me a long while to finish the series because I just can't get enthusiastic about the books yet. Parts of them are really fun and interesting, but a lot of it is just B learning new information here and there without any real danger or conflict that threatens B. There are a lot of moral dilemmas and interesting discussions on that front, but I'm still struggling to get into the stories because there's a lot of talking and not a lot of larger plot development going on. I feel like each book has a small section where we get a threat to B, but then nothing comes of it and it's just B wandering around learning things again. With the exception of the first book, every book so far is B relatively safe learning about the world, minor confrontation that results in no real change, and then B wandering around learning about the world again.
I sort of wonder if I read this series as one large book if it'd pay off better because it would feel like a natural story with a character learning something that moves the plot forward then having a peaceful time before a minor confrontation, then a peaceful time, minor confrontation, etc until the big plot moment. But because of the way the story is broken into smaller books it feels like constant disappointment. Like I'm given a chapter or two at a time and then nothing really is solved or reaches a head so I have to dig around and find the next 'chapter' to find more. The final three books in this series will probably be phenomenal because it will read like the final act of a novel, but getting there in this method is sort of disappointing and feels strenuous instead of fun.
I do want to say that Darren Shan's writing is good as always, and the concept of the story is wonderful, it's just the pacing of these small books that I feel is doing it a disservice. If you look at them as a whole it would really work as one long novel, but individually it's just too minor happening in these early ones to really feel the satisfaction that reading a good book should give you. I'm totally expecting the final few books in the series to pay off, though, if I can get to them.
April 17, 2017
This book was not as enjoyable as the last because this one is more of B finding her place in where she should be. She has left the County Hall which is where Dr. Oystein was because she didn't believe in his religious beliefs. She would rather off herself than deal with them so she left to head back into the city. B comes in contact with Timothy again-the painter. Turns out he now has I didn't know what to think about this concept because it was just strange. I still don't understand the point of but maybe they will come together soon. While B is trying to understand what it is they set off an alarm and B doesn't know where to go after this and believes she can only serve her purpose at County Hall so she heads back there.
April 15, 2024
You know what is so good about Darren Shan's books? You think you have an idea what the book is about and where the story is going and then all of a sudden you realize you know absolutely nil.
In the fifth installment of Shan's Zom-B series, B must decide whether or not to join the Angels in battling the freakish clown Mr. Dowling, the Owl Man and the mutants in an ultimate battle between good and evil. That's not saying this book is the crescendo. Based on the Cirque du Freak series, we could be in for many more books before we reach that point.
The other thing Shan does well is create all kinds of weird creatures and Zom-B Baby does not disappoint. A long time ago, I watched Dawn of the Dead, you know, the one in the mall with Ving Rhames and Ty Burrell, the latter now in Modern Family, and was absolutely mortified when it introduced a zombie baby. It's curious that there seems to be an unspoken general consensus that certain things are taboo and this is one of them, which surprises me because of course readers and movie buffs think of these things- what happens when a pregnant woman is infected.
Anyway, back to zombie babies... In previous books Shan introduced us to freaky clown zombie, owl man, mutant zombies, reanimated zombies, revitalized zombies and now, weirdo talking baby zombies. Seriously, after reading this series so far and the Cirque du Freak series, I am convinced that Shan either has some really horrible night terrors or smokes a little something something from time to time. Either way, it makes for good fiction.
Zom-B Baby holds some very serious issues within its pages. For example, does it matter what a leader's beliefs are if what he or she is doing is the right thing to do? In Warm Bodies, there is a quote, "Once you’ve arrived at the end of the world, it hardly matters which route you took." Does the same hold true with a mission? If the means of resolution and end result are right, then does it matter what religious or political beliefs the leader holds? If you participate in doing the right thing, but don't agree with the leader's politics or religion, does that mean you tacitly approve of his or her beliefs? Is it possible for different cultures, political parties and religious organizations to work together to change things for the better without having to agree on every issue?
Sounds a little heavy for a young adult zombie book which consists of merely 160 pages, but it's in there and it doesn't hijack the book. You still get a good zombie story out of it.
Allow me to get on my soapbox for an itty bitty moment...
Due to the theme of this series, it's not too far off subject. Trust me, after you read Zom-B Baby, you'll understand the relevance of my little soapbox. I want to say a big thank you to Darren Shan for the following:
As with other authors I truly enjoy, i.e. Jonathan Maberry and Neal Shusterman, without researching Shan, I am not so sure on which side of the political or religious fence he falls. I was brought up by my father to debate and I love it. But it really bothers me when faulty logic is repeated over and over again and no one points it out. I seem to be on a roll here because I recently read something by Maberry that sort of addressed the same thing.
I have read a lot of atheist works, some well known, and some not so well known. I have watched debates with Sam Harris and Christopher Hitchens. One of the most common arguments against the benefits of religion is that so many wars have been fought over it, as if somehow that is religion's fault. I don't know how many times I have said pretty much what the quote above proposes. Usually my answer involves, land, power and money.
Religion is a tool, plain and simple. When a drunk driver kills someone, we don't blame the car. There are those who argue there is nothing more than this existence and there is no God. And that's fine. However, if that's the argument, then humans would be the cause of war, not God or religion. If someone argues otherwise, it is inconsistent at best, hypocrisy at worst.
Another common argument is the diversity of beliefs in God or gods. With all these beliefs which vary with time period and culture, which one is right? Surely this proves none of them are; they are all fiction. Shan portrays what I consider a brilliant and eloquent viewpoint on this, and it ended up being my favorite quote in the book:
I don't know that Shan is taking up the banner of believers; I am not even attempting to suggest that whatsoever. Shan can address that himself if he so chooses. I just find it exciting that someone else has come up with viewpoints I have proposed for a long time, regardless of whether we believe them or not. After all, the best debaters are those who can argue both sides equally well.
End of soapbox.
Don't worry, there's still zombie gore and disturbing material in Zom-B Baby. Make no mistake; this isn't a big kumbaya fest. Weirdo religious theme + zombies = A+ fiction.
In the fifth installment of Shan's Zom-B series, B must decide whether or not to join the Angels in battling the freakish clown Mr. Dowling, the Owl Man and the mutants in an ultimate battle between good and evil. That's not saying this book is the crescendo. Based on the Cirque du Freak series, we could be in for many more books before we reach that point.
The other thing Shan does well is create all kinds of weird creatures and Zom-B Baby does not disappoint. A long time ago, I watched Dawn of the Dead, you know, the one in the mall with Ving Rhames and Ty Burrell, the latter now in Modern Family, and was absolutely mortified when it introduced a zombie baby. It's curious that there seems to be an unspoken general consensus that certain things are taboo and this is one of them, which surprises me because of course readers and movie buffs think of these things- what happens when a pregnant woman is infected.
Anyway, back to zombie babies... In previous books Shan introduced us to freaky clown zombie, owl man, mutant zombies, reanimated zombies, revitalized zombies and now, weirdo talking baby zombies. Seriously, after reading this series so far and the Cirque du Freak series, I am convinced that Shan either has some really horrible night terrors or smokes a little something something from time to time. Either way, it makes for good fiction.
Zom-B Baby holds some very serious issues within its pages. For example, does it matter what a leader's beliefs are if what he or she is doing is the right thing to do? In Warm Bodies, there is a quote, "Once you’ve arrived at the end of the world, it hardly matters which route you took." Does the same hold true with a mission? If the means of resolution and end result are right, then does it matter what religious or political beliefs the leader holds? If you participate in doing the right thing, but don't agree with the leader's politics or religion, does that mean you tacitly approve of his or her beliefs? Is it possible for different cultures, political parties and religious organizations to work together to change things for the better without having to agree on every issue?
Sounds a little heavy for a young adult zombie book which consists of merely 160 pages, but it's in there and it doesn't hijack the book. You still get a good zombie story out of it.
Allow me to get on my soapbox for an itty bitty moment...
Due to the theme of this series, it's not too far off subject. Trust me, after you read Zom-B Baby, you'll understand the relevance of my little soapbox. I want to say a big thank you to Darren Shan for the following:
Lots of wars have been fought by people who used religion as an excuse. Kings, politicians and generals twisted the beliefs of their followers as they saw fit, playing the religious card to justify their crusades over land, oil, gold or whatever it was they were really fighting for. p10
As with other authors I truly enjoy, i.e. Jonathan Maberry and Neal Shusterman, without researching Shan, I am not so sure on which side of the political or religious fence he falls. I was brought up by my father to debate and I love it. But it really bothers me when faulty logic is repeated over and over again and no one points it out. I seem to be on a roll here because I recently read something by Maberry that sort of addressed the same thing.
I have read a lot of atheist works, some well known, and some not so well known. I have watched debates with Sam Harris and Christopher Hitchens. One of the most common arguments against the benefits of religion is that so many wars have been fought over it, as if somehow that is religion's fault. I don't know how many times I have said pretty much what the quote above proposes. Usually my answer involves, land, power and money.
Religion is a tool, plain and simple. When a drunk driver kills someone, we don't blame the car. There are those who argue there is nothing more than this existence and there is no God. And that's fine. However, if that's the argument, then humans would be the cause of war, not God or religion. If someone argues otherwise, it is inconsistent at best, hypocrisy at worst.
Another common argument is the diversity of beliefs in God or gods. With all these beliefs which vary with time period and culture, which one is right? Surely this proves none of them are; they are all fiction. Shan portrays what I consider a brilliant and eloquent viewpoint on this, and it ended up being my favorite quote in the book:
"I don't think it's about being absolutely right," Timothy says. "The main message of most religions is the same- be kind to other people, lead an honorable life, don't cause trouble. I've always seen God as a massive diamond with thousands- maybe millions- of faces. We get a different view of the diamond, depending on which angle we look at it from. But there must be something there, otherwise what are we all looking at?" p111
I don't know that Shan is taking up the banner of believers; I am not even attempting to suggest that whatsoever. Shan can address that himself if he so chooses. I just find it exciting that someone else has come up with viewpoints I have proposed for a long time, regardless of whether we believe them or not. After all, the best debaters are those who can argue both sides equally well.
End of soapbox.
Don't worry, there's still zombie gore and disturbing material in Zom-B Baby. Make no mistake; this isn't a big kumbaya fest. Weirdo religious theme + zombies = A+ fiction.
March 5, 2018
I have read the other four books in the series but couldn't bring myself around to reading this one it's took me about a year or so to actually read this one and I'm happy that I had the break from the books as it made this book even more intriguing I love the characters and I love b spirit and just her character in general I'm happy rage actually got her to go out on her own again because she clearly wasn't happy being an angel it wasn't the place for her and even though rage pushed her off the London Eye I can see why he did it I just can't wait to read the next book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2024
Blurb: B takes a mini journey to decide if she wants to be with the Angels
I’m loving this kind of series that could absolutely be shorted into 3 books total, but it’s kinda split up like an anime. Some episodes may be more boring than others and much of it may seem like filler, but it’s still enjoyable.
Stop killing off the best characters goddamn it. First Mark and now Timothy?? Rude. I swear, if anything happens to those paintings, I am rioting.
This book wasn’t the fastest pace but I very much appreciate the mental journey that happens. Because of my own person stuff, I appreciate the main character being weary of an overly religious person and actually making a decision to leave instead of blindly follow (even if it’s eventually realized that there isn’t another choice besides inevitable death).
I’m totally okay with the weird baby stuff. I have no idea what’s going to happen with it, but I’m sure it’ll continue to be just as weird.
And listen, call me crazy, but I wouldn't hate an enemies-to-lovers trope for B and Rage lmao
I’m loving this kind of series that could absolutely be shorted into 3 books total, but it’s kinda split up like an anime. Some episodes may be more boring than others and much of it may seem like filler, but it’s still enjoyable.
Stop killing off the best characters goddamn it. First Mark and now Timothy?? Rude. I swear, if anything happens to those paintings, I am rioting.
This book wasn’t the fastest pace but I very much appreciate the mental journey that happens. Because of my own person stuff, I appreciate the main character being weary of an overly religious person and actually making a decision to leave instead of blindly follow (even if it’s eventually realized that there isn’t another choice besides inevitable death).
I’m totally okay with the weird baby stuff. I have no idea what’s going to happen with it, but I’m sure it’ll continue to be just as weird.
And listen, call me crazy, but I wouldn't hate an enemies-to-lovers trope for B and Rage lmao
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2018
I liked this book a lot. I like how she is not entirely trusting of the doctor. I like how Rage helps her to make a decision on whether to leave or not. I like how she finds Timothy. I hate how the babies from her dream have appeared and are doing exactly what she said they were. I hate how Timothy dies in the end. I rate this book 5 stars.
July 6, 2021
Okay, first, creepy af baby!!!
I think it took too long to get to the baby, especially since the title is Zom-B Baby. I just kept waiting for it and it finally showed up. So weird that the baby can control the zombies but not B. Maybe it can and chooses not to because of the 'mommy' thing?
I was kinda liking the B and Rage plot and how their relationship developed. I mean, not a lot because there just isn't much character development period. But they have sort of met in the middle and Rage actually helped her figure out what she wanted to do.
I will miss Timothy but I do hope to see more of Rage eventually.
I think it took too long to get to the baby, especially since the title is Zom-B Baby. I just kept waiting for it and it finally showed up. So weird that the baby can control the zombies but not B. Maybe it can and chooses not to because of the 'mommy' thing?
I was kinda liking the B and Rage plot and how their relationship developed. I mean, not a lot because there just isn't much character development period. But they have sort of met in the middle and Rage actually helped her figure out what she wanted to do.
I will miss Timothy but I do hope to see more of Rage eventually.
November 15, 2018
That was quite an interterestingvtwist towards the end.
January 17, 2020
Fastest read of the series yet. Cover to cover took me just over an hour and a half. Surprised even myself with that. Another great installment in the Zom B series as we really begin to have B Smith develop as a character and change what she believes in. She has time to reflect and reflects hard. Just wish every character we meet didn't meet and untimely end or at least died in a more high stakes environment or being so close to safety. Nevertheless, another good installment.
December 13, 2017
Personal Response:
I like the book Zom-B Baby because the story was relevantly consistent of having action. The book had some major changes throughout it. I think that the book had many great moments throughout it.
Plot: This book is about an undead girl named B. B recently left the zombie group Angels. B went on her own to scavenge food and find an old friend. B didn't find anything but brainless zombies on her search for brains. B soon later found her friend back at the east side of London. She and Timothy looked at the paintings that he drew. Timothy shows her a baby that had a nail it. B asks if she can pull it out of the baby. Timothy isn't very fond of it, but he agrees that she should. B pulls the nail out, and the baby turns rogue. It attacks B gnawing at her fingers eating off her finger tips. The baby then starts to screech a high pitch sound. The call attracts the zombies, which soon flood the building. Timothy and B attempt to get outside before they become surrounded. They get trapped on the stairs. Timothy is eaten by the other zombies.
Recommendation:
I recommend that the reader of the book has read the previous books to the series. I think that the reader would have to know that B is a zombie who regained her senses. The reader should keep an open mind while reading the book.
I like the book Zom-B Baby because the story was relevantly consistent of having action. The book had some major changes throughout it. I think that the book had many great moments throughout it.
Plot: This book is about an undead girl named B. B recently left the zombie group Angels. B went on her own to scavenge food and find an old friend. B didn't find anything but brainless zombies on her search for brains. B soon later found her friend back at the east side of London. She and Timothy looked at the paintings that he drew. Timothy shows her a baby that had a nail it. B asks if she can pull it out of the baby. Timothy isn't very fond of it, but he agrees that she should. B pulls the nail out, and the baby turns rogue. It attacks B gnawing at her fingers eating off her finger tips. The baby then starts to screech a high pitch sound. The call attracts the zombies, which soon flood the building. Timothy and B attempt to get outside before they become surrounded. They get trapped on the stairs. Timothy is eaten by the other zombies.
Recommendation:
I recommend that the reader of the book has read the previous books to the series. I think that the reader would have to know that B is a zombie who regained her senses. The reader should keep an open mind while reading the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2017
WOW this book was gooddddd!It was creepy, gory and hilarious.
The book picks up right off where the last one left off. This book has more serious undertones with B questioning about her life, if its worth living, about God and about her staying with Dr. Oystein and believing in his quest. B does a lot of soul searching during this book and thinks abut her situation and the situation of the world. She reflects on things she has done and things her father had done, realizing the wrong that they both did. This has made me like B more and more as the series goes on. I hated her in the first book but I'm getting to like her. You can actually see her character growth as she experiences her undead life.
The last few chapters of the book were freaky and it introduced the weird baby. All I gotta say is its not what it seems. Its not wholly a zombie. But it is wholly freaking and creepy. I gonna have some creepy nightmares tonight.
That's all I can really say about the book. I know this is a short review but I don't want to spoil anything. This book is awesome and everyone should read it and the series :D!
This review is also posted on Spantalian's Book Reviews
The book picks up right off where the last one left off. This book has more serious undertones with B questioning about her life, if its worth living, about God and about her staying with Dr. Oystein and believing in his quest. B does a lot of soul searching during this book and thinks abut her situation and the situation of the world. She reflects on things she has done and things her father had done, realizing the wrong that they both did. This has made me like B more and more as the series goes on. I hated her in the first book but I'm getting to like her. You can actually see her character growth as she experiences her undead life.
The last few chapters of the book were freaky and it introduced the weird baby. All I gotta say is its not what it seems. Its not wholly a zombie. But it is wholly freaking and creepy. I gonna have some creepy nightmares tonight.
That's all I can really say about the book. I know this is a short review but I don't want to spoil anything. This book is awesome and everyone should read it and the series :D!
This review is also posted on Spantalian's Book Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews