Review: Rot & Ruin (Benny Imura #1) by Jonathan Maberry

Title: Rot & Ruin (Benny Imura #1)

Author: Jonathan Maberry

Published:  September 14th 2010 by Simon and Schuster for Young Readers

Book Description:

In the zombie-infested, post-apocalyptic America where Benny Imura lives, every teenager must find a job by the time they turn fifteen or get their rations cut in half. Benny doesn’t want to apprentice as a zombie hunter with his boring older brother Tom, but he has no choice. He expects a tedious job whacking zoms for cash—but what he gets is a vocation that will teach him what it means to be human.

Acclaimed horror author Jonathan Maberry makes his young adult debut with this detail-rich depiction of a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has fallen, the dead have risen, and danger is always imminent

My Thoughts:

Another suggestion by TheUnseelieNerd (clearly Dani I should just give you my money and buy me these books. You're suggestions are always good)

This is my first Zombie-themed read and it was excellent. I can say that even though I did not read it in one sitting, so far this is the best I read this year. Also, the protagonist is also male. (Seriously, hooray for Male Protagonists!)

Lets start the list of all positives! 

First thing I like about this book is the PACING. I think this was the major reason on why I really loved this book. The author really knows how to pace his story. From start to beginning you know the story is heading in the right track. The beginning starts with introducing the story the background of the place, the characters and the situation of the world (oh yeah this is a post-apocalyptic story). Then after that he takes you to the scary Rot and Ruin. Then goes back to the town then to the climax of the story. The transition of the story is perfect. He gives you something special every part without giving all the great parts in one go. He takes you to a ride without making you bored.

Second is the CHARACTERS themselves. Just the naming of the character. I really like the names. Very unique and it never hurts that there is some japanese blood and culture going with the main protagonist. Even the supporting characters and antagonist they have such cool names. Nix. Chong. Charlie Pink-Eye. Hammer. Lilah. Just some examples.

Third is how the author expresses the characters FEELINGS AND MOOD. The choice of words and phrasing is good. It really evokes what the characters are feeling. In turn you are also affected by their mood. When they're sad you can't help but be sad as well. When they are happy you can share with their happiness.

Fourth. I like everything is POSSIBLE. Both negative and also positive can happen even to the the good guys. They can die, they can get injured. They can also win and be powerful at the same time. What I mean is that they are not so godly like that everything will go in their way.

Fifth. Romance plays a little part in the story. Not unlike other books now that seems to inject too much love love. 

Lastly, the LIFE LESSONS written in this book. It's been a while since I read something that teaches the value of life in this world. The value of each person no matter who it is. Whether it is someone you know or someone completely stranger to your eyes.

All in all it is a must read for everyone. One of the best books I've read lately. Look forward to my review of Book 2 

I give this a glorious 5 whales :D