In AUTUMN: DISINTEGRATION by David Moody, two groups of survivors develop very different strategies in dealing with the hordes of the risen dead now threatening them. The first group picks up weapons and tries to destroy them. The second hide themselves away and try not to be noticed. The conflict amps to a new level when these two groups are forced to work together and the zombies begin to regain awareness.
For years, Moody has given us a different kind of zombie in a different kind of zombie story–one that is maturely written and describes real people coping with an incredible disaster and subsequent threat in a realistically dying world. While in most of his AUTUMN books, the smarter survivors have tried to keep away from the zombies, AUTUMN: DISINTEGRATION shows a small band fighting the hordes with everything they’ve got. It’s a refreshing update to a great series, and gives Moody a chance to say to those readers looking for head shots: “OK, let’s do it your way, and see what happens!”
Moody’s zombies are aggressive, frightening and yet oddly sympathetic. They’re also disgusting, literally rotting off the page. The toxic environment of the cities, and the psychological landscape of threat, depression and displaced anger, present additional stress on the survivors beyond the needs of basic survival. The people behave realistically, and respond realistically to what is happening to them. These are ordinary people in an incredible situation…
Basically, I loved it. I’m a fan of this series. While PURIFICATION is probably still my favorite, I found DISINTEGRATION an innovative addition, and I enjoyed the story being told from the view of new characters.
If you already know and love Moody’s work, you’re going to find DISINTEGRATION a new twist and a great addition to the AUTUMN series. If for some reason you haven’t liked the series so far, it’s an inviting chance to give it another try, as it’s a different take, and works as a standalone book. And if you’re new to the series, it’s a great way to start it and get acquainted with Moody’s vision if you’re not sure about the first book. In other words, buy this book.
Can’t wait for AFTERMATH to come out in March 2012!
Personally, the first book in the series was my favorite (in its then rough form). That being stated, Autumn is my favorite zombie series. I think many of us will be saddened when the final book comes out.
By the way, excellent review!
I’d have to say AUTUMN: CITY and AUTUMN: PURIFICATION are my favorites in the series.