America, if not the world, is obsessed with monsters. The
reason why is a mystery, but there is no doubt that the two most popular are
vampires and zombies. The “Twilight” book and movie series is huge for vampire
fans, while AMC’s “The Walking Dead” is number one with zombie fans. Hundreds
and books and movies have been written about these creatures, but here are two
words you don’t usually see together – “zombie” and “Christian.”
Jeff Kinley’s new book, “The Christian Zombie Killers
Handbook: Slaying the Living Dead Within,” bravely tackles the genre. It’s
actually two books in one, half story and half teaching, told throughout every
other chapter in the book.
Written with high-school and college students in mind,
“Zombie Killers” is set in the near future where trouble with zombies is a way
of life in large metro cities. A mysterious illness is turning innocent people
into zombies who kill. Then the victims become zombies as well. Sort of a
“circle of death.” Meanwhile, Ben Forman is a young professional starting out
on his first job and living on his own. One night he discovers a dead body who
was obviously a victim of a zombie attack and it really shakes him. With the
help of his older brother, he learns how to defend himself, “just in case.” Soon,
zombies begin appearing out of the woodwork. Staying alive becomes quite the
challenge.
 |
| Author Jeff Kinley |
There isn’t much of a spiritual angle with Ben’s story, but
the “meat” of the book comes from the teaching chapters. Kinley explains that
there is a little zombie in all of us, (even Christians), wanting to destroy
us. He tackles topics of sin, grace, salvation and how to overcome life as a
zombie. Just like a real zombie, Kinley is relentless in his explanations that
we can’t defeat the zombies on our own, but that we need a Savior.
Those who only want to read a story about a zombie attack
won’t be disappointed. Some chapters get fairly graphic, but not overly so.
Still, the book is not recommended for younger readers. On the downside, some
characters are not completely “fleshed out.” Ben is in love with his
girlfriend, but doesn’t really explain why. Her character doesn’t do much in
the story except pout. The abrupt ending was a disappointment for me as well.
This might be a sign that a sequel is in the works, but that isn’t clear.
 |
| Jeff Kinley and Sean T. Page |
Some teens only want to read a monster story may be
disappointed that the book includes the teaching chapters. However, with this
unique formatting, it just might make peak their interest. The book isn’t
preachy, but heartfelt and full of truth. The book also includes a short
discussion guide for group study.
(Originally posted on Examiner.com)
