Phew...finally finished this. 
 I can honestly say that I was scared to read this book, just look at the cover! I didn't think I would like this book because I read another zombie book before this and it was kind of gory but this was not your typical zombie book. This book made zombies or "zoms" more like real people even though they are dead. 
 The scary thing about this book because it makes you think that maybe this could happen. I hope something like this won't be you never know. Living in a society were you have to get a job when you turn 15 because you won't have any food rashions, that's pretty hard core. I'm not even sure what job I would want to do, not a lot of good options if you ask me. 
 I liked Benny. When him and Tom were together, they cracked me up. When Benny starts to swear, Tom will say "LANGUAGE"...so funny! They sound like more like a mom and son than brothers. 
 Some of the events were a tad predictable but I think that helps kids with predicting and wanting to read on. This book had enough actions were it was spaced out throughout the book and kept it exciting. 
 I think a lot of boys will enjoy this but maybe some might be turned away because of the size. I too thought it was a little to long but then again, the 1st book in a series sometimes has to be the longest with all of the background information.