The 10 Best Young Adult Zombie Books to Read Right Now

Zombies are a popular topic in entertainment and literature, and young adult zombie books have a growing audience. Whether you are a zombie enthusiast or just looking for a good read, here are the ten best young adult zombie books to consider.

The 10 Best Young Adult Zombie Books to Read Right Now

Why Young Adult Zombie Books Are So Popular

Young adult zombie books have become increasingly popular in recent years. There are a few reasons for this trend. One factor is the popularity of the zombie genre in general. Zombies are a timeless favorite for many because they are so different from traditional villains. They are often mindless and relentless, making them a formidable opponent for any protagonist. Additionally, young adult zombie books often tackle themes of survival, loss, and friendship, making them relatable to the young adult audience.

The Appeal of Zombie Fiction

Zombie fiction has a unique appeal that draws readers in. The idea of facing a zombie apocalypse and fighting for survival is a thrilling concept for many. People love to imagine how they would fare in such a scenario. The undead are also an ideal antagonist for a story because they represent a threat that is both familiar and unknown. The existence of zombies in fiction creates a world that is both terrifying and exciting, with endless possibilities for storytelling.

One of the reasons why young adult zombie books are so popular is because they often feature teenage protagonists who are forced to navigate a world overrun by the undead. These characters are relatable to young adult readers, who are also experiencing a time of transition and uncertainty in their lives. The struggles that the characters face in these books, such as finding food and shelter, dealing with loss, and trying to maintain relationships, are all issues that young adults can relate to.

Another reason why young adult zombie books have become so popular is that they often explore complex themes and issues. For example, many of these books deal with the idea of what it means to be human. In a world where the undead walk among the living, characters are forced to question their own humanity and what separates them from the monsters they are fighting against.

The Growth of the Young Adult Genre

The young adult genre has grown immensely in recent years, with readers of all ages gravitating towards these titles. The genre has become more diverse, featuring protagonists of different races, genders, and orientations. The popularity of young adult zombie books is a sign of the genre’s evolution, as it continues to explore new themes and ideas.

One of the reasons why young adult fiction has become so popular is that it often deals with issues that are relevant to young adults. These books can help readers navigate the complexities of growing up, such as dealing with peer pressure, exploring their own identities, and learning how to make their own decisions. Young adult zombie books take these issues to the extreme, forcing characters to confront these challenges in a world where survival is the ultimate goal.

In conclusion, young adult zombie books have become popular because they offer readers a thrilling and relatable story, while also exploring complex themes and issues. As the young adult genre continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how it incorporates new ideas and perspectives into the world of zombie fiction.

Top 5 Classic Young Adult Zombie Books

Zombie books have become increasingly popular in recent years, with young adult novels leading the way in the genre. From heart-pumping action to heartwarming romance, these books have it all. Here are the top 5 classic young adult zombie books that every zombie fan should read:

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

The Forest of Hands and Teeth

The Forest of Hands and Teeth is a classic young adult zombie book that should be on every reader’s list. In this story, a young woman named Mary is living in a post-apocalyptic world where zombies roam freely. She dreams of finding the ocean and leaving her small village behind. Along the way, she must fight for survival against the undead and those who would do her harm.

The Forest of Hands and Teeth is a thrilling story that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Ryan’s writing is vivid and descriptive, painting a picture of a world that is both terrifying and beautiful. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their journey. This book is a must-read for any fan of the zombie genre.

The Enemy by Charlie Higson

The Enemy

The Enemy is a thrilling young adult zombie book that takes place in London after a disease has turned everyone over the age of 14 into zombies. The children who remain must band together and fight for survival against the undead and other dangers. The story follows a group of kids as they navigate this new world and discover the truth behind the disease.

Higson’s writing is fast-paced and action-packed, making The Enemy a page-turner from start to finish. The characters are diverse and interesting, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. This book is a great choice for anyone who loves a good adventure story.

Rot & Ruin by Jonathan Maberry

Rot & Ruin

Rot & Ruin is a young adult zombie book that explores the consequences of a zombie apocalypse. The story is set in a small town where zombies are a part of everyday life. The protagonist, Benny Imura, is forced to become a zombie hunter to survive. Along the way, he learns about the humanity of the undead and what it means to be truly alive.

Maberry’s writing is both thought-provoking and action-packed. The story is full of twists and turns, making it a thrilling read. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their journey. This book is a great choice for anyone who loves a good coming-of-age story.

The Reapers Are the Angels by Alden Bell

The Reapers Are the Angels: A Novel

The Reapers Are the Angels is a young adult zombie book that explores themes of redemption and forgiveness. The story follows a young woman named Temple, who has been surviving in a world overrun by zombies. When she meets a man named Maury, she realizes that there is more to life than just surviving. The story is both heartwarming and harrowing, making it a must-read for any zombie fan.

Bell’s writing is poetic and haunting, creating a world that is both beautiful and terrifying. The characters are complex and well-developed, making it easy to become invested in their journey. This book is a great choice for anyone who loves a good character-driven story.

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion

Warm Bodies: A Novel (The Warm Bodies Series Book 1)

Warm Bodies is a unique young adult zombie book that takes a different approach to the zombie genre. The protagonist of the story is a zombie named R, who falls in love with a girl named Julie. The story explores themes of love and humanity, making it a refreshing take on the genre.

Marion’s writing is both funny and poignant, creating a story that is both heartwarming and heartbreaking. The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become invested in their journey. This book is a great choice for anyone who loves a good romance story.

Top 5 Modern Young Adult Zombie Books

Zombie books have been a popular genre for years, and the young adult category is no exception. Here are five of the best modern young adult zombie books that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Girl with All the Gifts by M.R. Carey

The Girl With All the Gifts

The Girl with All the Gifts is a modern young adult zombie book that has been praised for its unique approach to the genre. The story follows a young girl named Melanie who is trapped in a facility with other children who are also infected with a zombie virus. The story explores questions of humanity and morality, making it a thought-provoking read.

As the story progresses, Melanie begins to question her own identity and whether she is truly a monster or if she has the capacity for love and compassion. The complex relationships between the characters add depth to the story and make it a compelling read for fans of the genre.

This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

This Is Not a Test: A Novel

This is Not a Test is a young adult zombie book that explores the mind of a teenager in a zombie apocalypse. The story follows a group of teens who are trapped in their high school during the outbreak. The characters’ struggles with mental health issues make this story both relatable and intense.

The book also delves into the dynamics of group survival and the lengths people will go to in order to protect themselves and their loved ones. The tension in the story is palpable, and readers will find themselves rooting for the characters as they fight for their lives.

Dread Nation by Justina Ireland

Dread Nation

Dread Nation is a young adult zombie book that takes place in the aftermath of the Civil War. The story follows a young black woman named Jane who has been trained as a zombie fighter. The story explores themes of race and class, making it a timely and thought-provoking read.

The book also touches on the power dynamics between the living and the undead, and how those in power will use any means necessary to maintain their control. Jane is a fierce and determined protagonist who will inspire readers with her bravery and resilience.

The Bone Houses by Emily Lloyd-Jones

The Bone Houses

The Bone Houses is a young adult zombie book that blends fantasy with horror. The story takes place in a world where the dead do not stay dead. The protagonist, Ryn, is a gravedigger who must fight against the undead to save her village. The story is both atmospheric and haunting, making it a unique read.

The book also explores themes of grief and loss, as Ryn must grapple with the death of her parents and the responsibility of caring for her younger siblings. The world-building in the book is rich and immersive, and readers will find themselves transported to a world unlike any other.

Girls Save the World in This One by Ash Parsons

Girls Save the World in This One

Girls Save the World in This One is a young adult zombie book that combines humor with horror. The story follows a group of friends who attend a zombie-themed convention, only to have a real zombie outbreak occur. The characters are relatable and funny, making this story a fun and entertaining read.

The book also touches on themes of friendship and the power of working together to overcome obstacles. The girls in the story are strong and independent, and readers will find themselves cheering them on as they fight to survive.

These five modern young adult zombie books are sure to satisfy fans of the genre with their unique perspectives and compelling characters. Whether you’re looking for a thought-provoking read or a fun and entertaining story, there’s something for everyone on this list.

Conclusion

Young adult zombie books are a popular genre that continues to grow. From classic tales to modern spins, there is a young adult zombie book out there for every reader. Whether you are looking for a thrilling adventure or a thought-provoking read, these ten books are sure to satisfy your craving for all things undead. So grab your favorite book and get ready to join the fight for survival!

FAQs

Why do young adults enjoy reading about zombies?

Zombies are a great topic for YA readers. They’re dangerous without being scary in a real, threatening way. Using fantasy like this is a good way to introduce YA readers to horror, dystopian fiction, and psychological fiction.

Is zombie fiction fantasy?

Zombie fiction is a type of paranormal fantasy. Zombies are the name given to dead people who come back to life, usually on mass, to take over the world and kill the living.

What are the best zombie books of all time?

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan, The Enemy by Charlie Higson, Warm Bodies by Issac Marion, and Generation Dead by Daniel Waters are all good choices.

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Eddison Monroe
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