In this episode of Zombie Book Club, we sit down with Darren Smith, host of The Undead Symphony podcast and author of the novel by the same name. Darren shares how his journey from reviewing over 300 zombie films to writing a novel was inspired by listener misconceptions and a desire to explore deeper themes within the genre.

We delve into the unique aspects of his novel, including its symphonic structure, the evolution of zombies from rage-filled runners to traditional shufflers, and the practical survival techniques embedded within the narrative. Darren also discusses the significance of his Jewish protagonist, Yonatan Solomon, and how cultural identity and societal commentary are woven into the fabric of the story.

Guest Contact & Links:

• Podcast: The Undead Symphony
• Instagram: @undeadsymphonypod
• Books by Darren Smith:
  • The Bends
  • God in a Box
  • Shadow's Bliss

Zombie Book Club Links

Sign up for our Newsletter!!!! --- https://zombiebookclub.io/newsletter/

Join the Brain Muncher’s Zombie Collective: https://discord.gg/rn3nPDa4CB

ZBC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombiebookclubpodcast/

Dan's BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/danthezombiewriter.bsky.social

Zombie Book Club Voicemail: (614) 699-0006‬

Zombie Book Club Email: ZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.com

Our Secret Website That Isn't Finished: https://zombiebookclub.io

Our Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts): https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

In this episode of Zombie Book Club, hosts Dan and Leah delve into the resistance against Negan's authoritarian rule in The Walking Dead. Analyzing the responses of Alexandria, Hilltop, the Kingdom, and Oceanside, they explore how each community transitions from trauma-induced reactions to organized rebellion. The discussion highlights the evolution from submission to strategic coalition-building, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in the face of oppression.

Drawing parallels to Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century, the episode examines how the series mirrors real-world strategies for resisting authoritarianism. Themes such as refusing anticipatory obedience, defending institutions, and maintaining truth are explored through the actions of characters like Rick, Michonne, Maggie, and Ezekiel. This episode offers insights into the dynamics of resistance, both in a fictional post-apocalyptic world and in contemporary society.




Contact & Relevant Links:

• Timothy Snyder:
  • Official Website: timothysnyder.org
  • BlueSky: @timothysnyder.bsky.social
  • Books: On Tyranny at Penguin Random House
  • Audiobook: On Tyranny
    
    
• The Walking Dead Resources:
  • The Walking Dead Wiki: walkingdead.fandom.com

• Living Dead Weekend
  • Website: https://www.thelivingdeadweekend.com/
  • Petition: https://www.change.org/p/save-the-monroeville-mall

Zombie Book Club Links

Sign up for our Newsletter!!!! --- https://zombiebookclub.io/newsletter/

Join the Brain Muncher’s Zombie Collective: https://discord.gg/rn3nPDa4CB

ZBC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombiebookclubpodcast/

Dan's BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/danthezombiewriter.bsky.social

Zombie Book Club Voicemail: (614) 699-0006‬

Zombie Book Club Email: ZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.com

Our Secret Website That Isn't Finished: https://zombiebookclub.io

Our Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts): https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

In this episode of Zombie Book Club, we welcome Catherine Larkin—also known as Author X Zombie—author and illustrator of the Wizards of the Apocalypse series. Catherine shares her journey from crafting stories in high school to building the richly imagined world of Skeletonia, where intelligent zombies don armor, cast spells, and follow the commands of the formidable demon Malice.

We delve into Catherine's creative process, exploring how her dual talents in writing and illustration bring depth to her characters and settings. She discusses the themes of authenticity, friendship, and self-discovery that permeate her work, offering insights into how personal experiences have shaped her storytelling. Join us as we explore a unique fusion of fantasy and horror that challenges genre boundaries and captivates readers of all ages.

Guest Contact Information and Relevant Links:

• Website: www.x-zombie.com
• Instagram: @authorxzombie
• Books on Amazon: Wizards of the Apocalypse: The Forgotten Prophecy

Zombie Book Club Links

Sign up for our Newsletter!!!! --- https://zombiebookclub.io/newsletter/

Join the Brain Muncher’s Zombie Collective: https://discord.gg/rn3nPDa4CB

ZBC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombiebookclubpodcast/

Dan's BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/danthezombiewriter.bsky.social

Zombie Book Club Voicemail: (614) 699-0006‬

Zombie Book Club Email: ZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.com

Our Secret Website That Isn't Finished: https://zombiebookclub.io

Our Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts): https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com