The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

Let me just start by saying that I have a rather unusual obsession with zombies. I find it slightly unhealthy that I cannot stop myself from watching zombie related media even though they are the only thing that actually freak me about enough to give me nightmares. When I saw this book and read that it involved my favorite/least favorite monsters, I knew that I had to give it a go and I'm glad I did.


Now while this book didn't have me glued to the pages, it still didn't take me long to get through it. It's a very emotive read and my heart ached for Mary, our protagonist, throughout most of the book. She is quiet a fragile character I think, at least until the end. She has no clue what she really wants until it taken from her, which was no doubt what Ryan was going for. Mary gets rather jealous about most things at a time were jealousy really is not needed, some parts of her remind me of Katniss from the Hunger Games; a forced heroine who doesn't actually know what she's doing but is likable none the same.


I find that there really isn't any other characters that I like that much. They are all quite selfish, considering the way they have been raised. Cass, Henry and Travis start out quite innocent and then turn a little, though it isn't really without reason, they are going through the worst time of their lives, what with their own deaths on the doorstep. The person I dislike the most was Jed, Mary's brother, and yet he redeems himself a bit later on. 

The way Ryan writes is clear, although not that descriptive, but of course the book is written in the first person and Mary doesn't seem the kind to focus too much on the little things. It doesn't ruin the story but it means that its not all it could have been. The ending does leave me wanting to know what happens next with Mary. I want to know how she moves on from what happens and I really want to read a happy ending for her, although I don't believe she would allow herself that. Ryan has left me with a few unanswered questions though, and I'm not sure whether she plans on just leaving it at that with these characters, but she does have a sequel so I guess I'll have to find out.


I would completely recommend this read to people who like to read anything with paranormal tones. especially those who want a change from the vampire/werewolf theme and those who don't mind a little bit of gross violence. What with it being a zombie book, be prepared for descriptions of people being eaten but none of that is actually so detailed that you cringe. It was fresh and I enjoyed reading a book that didn't string along the happiness in a situation where it would be hard to be happy, the behavior of the characters seems true to what would happen if zombies walked the earth.

Books 4 Brains Rating;