It's a question as old as time itself: which is better, the zombie or the unicorn? In this anthology, edited by Holly Black and Justine Larbalestier (unicorn and zombie, respectively), strong arguments are made for both sides in the form of short stories. Half of the stories portray the strengths--for good and evil--of unicorns and half show the good (and really, really bad-ass) side of zombies. Contributors include many bestselling teen authors, including Cassandra Clare, Libba Bray, Maureen Johnson, Meg Cabot, Scott Westerfeld, and Margo Lanagan. This anthology will have everyone asking: Team Zombie or Team Unicorn?
When I first came across this book and saw that Carrie Ryan had written one of the zombie short stories I told myself that if I ever read this book I would start with that story. Carrie Ryan is the author of The Forest of Hands and Teeth series/companion novels. I love her take on zombies and this short story did not disappoint.
Bougainvillea
The story is so well written and unfolds in such a manner. The main character, Iza has grown up with her father who is a strong-willed man that's used to being in charge. This short story touches on what and who you would be willing to sacrifice to survive. It also delves into the line between right and wrong and just being plain ruthless. What would you be willing to do to keep yourself and those you care for alive?
The zombies from this story are called mudo, which means mute. I believe they are the same zombies from her past book The Dead Tossed Waves but this story takes place in very modern times, which makes it even creepier. There is mention of Facebook and Twitter, and did I mention there are PIRATES! Yes!
Overall I thought the story and main character were very well developed. It didn't feel like a short story to me and I would love to read more about Iza.
Quote:
"Beihito stared at her perhaps with pity or maybe with impatience. 'It also means 'speechless'--those who have lost their voice. They have nothing to say. They've lost who they are.'" pg. 77
Ooh this is the one I plan to read next! I just read a review of a GR friend of this whole book today and she said This was the best story in the whole thing. Plus I loved Carrie's Hands and Teeth series!
ReplyDelete