Thanks to AMC’s The Walking Dead, interest in zombies has risen once again! In The Zombie Handbook, Curran gives background on zombie lore, ways to identify a zombie, and how to avoid a zombie attack.
For example, in Voodoo beliefs, the word “zombie” doesn’t refer to the walking dead at all, but instead a serpent that is the symbol of the chief of Voodoo gods. It is actually in places like Haiti and the southern states in the US that zombie lore has taken hold, largely due to the slavery once common in these areas. It is said that slaves brought with them tales of the walking dead, stories that frightened their masters.
How does one identify a zombie? The stiff, halting walk might help, as would the smell. Additionally, one of the sure signs a creature is a zombie is its lack of communication. Zombies are unable to answer a direct question, only able to utter a few words. They also have a vacant & “lost” stare.
The best way to protect oneself from a zombie attack is to avoid them. When this is impossible, there are charms called gris-gris that can protect the wearer. Also, as with most other “supernatural” beings, a ring of salt stops zombies, as does fresh, running water (as in a river or stream, not a bathtub!)
The Zombie Handbook also distinguishes between the types of zombies. In Jewish lore, the Golem, a figure made of clay, protected groups of Jewish people. In Ireland, the marbh bheo (night-walking dead) walk freely among the living at certain times of the year, seeking vengeance for past grievances. Others are granted a night to enjoy things they had in life.
Curran also provides some historical perspective. Paramount to the existence of zombies are zombie masters, those who had the power to raise the dead, including John Domingo who lived in Charleston, SC in the 1880s; Dr. Buzzard, who lived in the Low Country of South Carolina in the mid 1900s; and the most famous “Voodoo Queen”, the zombie mistress of New Orleans, Marie Laveau. These individuals had the power to raise the dead and provide other charms using magical powders and potions.
The Zombie Handbook educates the reader on every aspect of the walking dead, through vivid, colorful illustrations and photographs as well as noteworthy facts. It is guaranteed to be a hit for any fan of horror. Highly recommended.
Warning: Some of the images can be a bit frightening to young children.
Reviewed by: Jennifer Lawrence