A bizarre phenomenon spreads across the U.S. For some unknown reason, recently deceased teens aren’t staying that way. Based on the preconceived notion that zombies—or the living impaired—are dangerous, they are shunned by society, and for many, by their family and former friends.
Despite the fear and prejudice surrounding these teens, the administration at Oakvale High School takes a more progressive approach. But it proves challenging to integrate the dead kids when teachers and “living” students are less than willing to embrace their presence. And some of the living are eager to making their feelings known, especially since the “differently biotic” have no rights and there are no laws to protect them.
Phoebe, a “living” teen who’s into goth, develops a crush on Tommy Williams, the leader of the dead kids. Neither her best friend, Margi, nor her neighbor, Adam, the star of the football team, can believe her feelings for Tommy. To make things more complex, Adam is in love with Phoebe but she doesn’t realize it.
The Hunter Foundation, an organization involved in the physiological, psychological, and sociological research of differently biotic kids, links forces with Oakvale High to offer the Differently Biotic Work Study program. The AP accredited course includes a weekly focus group to help understand the views of the undead and living kids. The goal is for the change in societal views, starting with the teen participants. The researchers are also interested in finding out why some biotic kids are higher functioning compared to others. Phoebe convinces Margi and Adam to sign up.
Generation Dead by Daniel Waters is told from the perspective of three teens: Phoebe, Adam, and Pete. As the story progresses, the reader experiences Adam’s change in attitude towards the dead kids, Phoebe’s growing interest in Tommy and her questioning of his feelings for her, and the driving forces behind Pete’s hatred toward the living impaired.
The compelling story brings to light how our attitudes and prejudices are shaped by our fears and lack of understanding, and how by seeing past these prejudices we can accept others in spite of their differences. It also shows how these prejudices can lead to bully. But most importantly, it demonstrates how we are all responsible for creating change in how society views others, regardless of their race, age, interests, abilities. However, the book does not come off as preachy. It is witty and cleverly written. And the cliff handing ending will leave you wanting more. Fortunately the sequel, Kiss of Life, will be available May 12th.