George A. Romero is widely known as the father of modern zombies, having created the iconic monster in Night of the Living Dead. However, when he passed away, his final zombie tale, The Living Dead, was left incomplete. Enter Daniel Kraus, a devoted fan of Romero’s work who was honored to be asked by Romero’s widow to complete The Living Dead. This novel brings a fresh perspective to the zombie genre and offers an entirely new story as Romero had envisioned it.
The Living Dead takes readers on a thrilling journey through a world where the dead rise, causing chaos and devastation. From a Midwestern trailer park to a US aircraft carrier, the novel explores various perspectives from different races, cultures, and backgrounds. Each character faces their own struggles as they confront the undead and try to survive in this new reality. The story is filled with suspense, action, and unexpected twists.
One of the highlights of The Living Dead is its ability to capture both George A. Romero’s signature and Daniel Kraus’s unique voice. The seamless collaboration between these two talented authors results in a gripping narrative that pays homage to Romero’s legacy while bringing something fresh and exciting to the table. Fans of Romero’s films will appreciate the nods to his work scattered throughout the book, while newcomers will be drawn in by the compelling storytelling and richly developed characters.
The novel also delves into deeper themes such as survival, loss, and humanity in the face of adversity. It raises thought-provoking questions about what it means to be alive and how people react when faced with life-or-death situations. The diverse cast of characters adds depth and complexity to the story, making it more than just your typical zombie tale.
George A. Romero’s legacy lives on through this collaboration with Daniel Kraus, resulting in a compelling and unforgettable novel that will leave readers wanting more. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Romero’s work or new to his world of zombies, this book is sure to captivate you from start to finish.
We’re glad this book wasn’t left unfinished on a shelf. Kraus breathed new life into it with his unique touch. We’re excited for his next novel, Pay the Piper, which he will complete for the late Romero, set to release in September 2024. It will mark his final collaboration with Romero.
The Living Dead is available at bookstores everywhere. Check out the audiobook from Libro.fm narrated by Bruce Davison and Lori Cardille.