Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Clever kids fight zombies in interesting series starter.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
As ZOMBIE SEASON opens, no one is ready for hordes of the undead to rampage across the state of California so early and in such large numbers. Twelve-year-old Joule refuses to leave her home without her father, even though he's been missing for a year and the zombies killed her best friend. Eleven-year-old Ollie, who has been mapping zombie movements for a year, sees something strange in their behavior, but he can't get any adult to believe him. Twelve-year-old Regina's scientist parents have a new powerful anti-zombie weapon, but there's a dark side to the tech that raises some ethical questions Regina can't ignore. When the three kids' paths cross, will they be able to connect the dots the adults are missing so they can survive zombie season?
Is It Any Good?
Zombie stories need fresh twists, and this new middle grade horror has plenty of them. With the story of Zombie Season told in third-person present, author Justin Weinberger assures the reader of maximum suspense and intimate characterization. Twelve-year-olds Joule and Regina, and 11-year-old Oliver have vividly drawn, realistic personalities, and despite the apocalyptic setting, tween readers will definitely find them relatable. The author devises engaging challenges for them that push them to their limits. The series is just getting started, but it promises intense episodic action for a long time to come.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Zombie Season is the first book in a series. Why do readers like multipart stories? What do you think might happen in Book 2?
Why are zombie stories so popular? How is it different to read a zombie story than to watch it on TV? Which do you prefer and why?
Regina, Ollie, and Joule demonstrate curiosity, bravery, and work well as a team. Why are these important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Horror
- Topics : Fantasy
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Scholastic Press
- Publication date : September 25, 2023
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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