Skip to main content
PBS logo
 
 

Book Review of Feed (Newsflesh, Bk 1)

Feed (Newsflesh, Bk 1)
Feed (Newsflesh, Bk 1)
Author: Mira Grant
Genres: Science Fiction & Fantasy, Horror
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
reviewed on + 31 more book reviews


I found "Feed" to be an excellent book for several reasons:

1.) The reaction factors. I'm always interested in how people think various groups - individuals, big business, the government, etc. - will react to various things. In this case, the reactions are to zombies, though the reactions tend to lack shock or surprise, due to zombies already being a fact of life in the world of "Feed."

2.) The "what-if" factor, which is a big influence in "Feed." In this case, the question is: What if zombies were a fact of life? "Feed" explores how the world would change after learn how to survive - survive, not wipe out - zombies. It examines the potential effects/changes zombies would have on many aspects of our life, from how emergency responses would change to how houses would be built.

3.) The zombies themselves. They are not cute, sexy, or sparkly. They are the walking dead. They are a threat and are treated as such. Granted, occasionally a character will poke one with a stick, but usually theyve dealt with zombies before and more or less know what theyre doing. If they dont, they get chewed on.

4.) The mechanics of zombies. Usually the origin of zombies is accredited to some anonymous virus and left at that. "Feed" takes a closer look at the possible mechanics of a zombie-virus, such as how it would start, how it would spread, and more.

5.) The lead character is a strong female. By this I mean that she is capable kicking undead ass and doesnt put up with BS. She doesnt get all flustered or turn into a lovesick twit the moment a hot guy appears. Shes not perfect and shes not a total bitch either. To me, shes a pretty well-rounded character.

6.) The story. There are plenty enough zombies to satisfy their presence is felt throughout the book, even when they're not actually there but theyre not what drives the story. The story itself is about politics and conspiracy, and its not always a happy tale. Its sad and disturbing at times, but then again, it should be. In a world where people regularly rise from the dead and try to munch on their loved ones, you cant have a story where everything is smooth sailing.

In short, I loved Feed. It was a page-turner that actually had substance and filled in one of my favorite niches.