4.25 ⭐️ (rnd ⬆️)

I had only recently read the incredible short-story that this novel was based on, and I was rather trepidatious about taking on 'Zombie'. I was afraid that it might ruin the nearly perfect short story. However, despite some moments where I felt the work was left short of its epic potential due to elision, this was indeed a great book. It is filled with such fertile enmity and dark energy that it'll creep into your dreams if you read it anywhere in the PM!!! I needed a few weeks after completing it to compose this review, as writing it right away would have risked being influenced by the character and allusions of the work itself.

Joyce Carol Oates' 'Zombie' is a chilling, languid, and meticulously crafted psychological thriller. It delves into the mind of a sociopathic killer named Quentin P. The novel, openly inspired by the real-life horrors of Jeffrey Dahmer, offers an unsettling yet compelling glimpse into the darkest corners of human nature. The temerity it offers feels illimitable throughout. (Reading this in 7 - 10p blocks with solid gaps in-between reading classics and Wendig’s Wanderers was a decision I'm very happy about, and I even shared it.)

Oates' portrayal of the deeply troubled and diffident character of Quentin is disturbingly intimate. It is narrated through his own fragmented and obsessively erudite thoughts. The stream-of-consciousness style immerses the reader in Quentin's warped psyche, making for a read that is both captivating and deeply uncomfortable in a very personal and eerie way. Oates' writing is as sharp and precise as ever, capturing Quentin's descent into madness with unnerving clarity. Her use of language within the structure effectively mirrors the protagonist's chaotic mind, making 'Zombie' a genuinely terrifying lesson in psychological horror.

What sets this novel apart is Oates' ability to humanize a monstrous character regularly without ever attempting to justify his actions. Quentin's meticulous planning, rationalizations, and chilling lack of empathy are presented in such a way that the reader almost begins to, if not understand, at least interpret his twisted logic. This makes his actions even more horrifying. Oates doesn't shy away from the gruesome details but handles them with literary finesse, avoiding gratuitousness and always using her literary talents to reel things in and use what's not being said.

The novel's pacing is relentless, pulling the reader deeper into Quentin's world with each page. The tension is palpable, and Oates masterfully maintains it throughout the book. However, this intensity can also be a double-edged sword. At times, the sheer darkness of Quentin's thoughts and behavior can be overwhelming, potentially alienating some readers. This is not a story for the faint of heart, but for those who can stomach it, 'Zombie' offers a profoundly disturbing yet impulsively fascinating exploration of a warped and broken mind.

While the novel may not appeal to everyone due to its grim subject matter and source material, it is undeniably a powerful work of fiction. Joyce Carol Oates proves once again why she is one of the most versatile and talented writers of our time. Her ability to delve into the human psyche and systematically expose its most terrifying aspects is both a gift and a curse, making 'Zombie' a novel that will linger in your thoughts many nights after you've turned the last page.

Sure, there are some challenging passages that seem to omit quite a lot of more exploratory roads and other perspectives. But this is a choice the author has made, not a miss. It's simply omitted. This is perhaps surprising given the feminist stylings often seen elsewhere, but it's not something I believed was required politically. I'm talking purely narratively. So does the work need more empathetic avenues, even if just to alter the course of the narrative for a moment? Sure. But who am I to argue with JCO?!?!

This work is a masterfully written, deeply unsettling psychological thriller that showcases Joyce Carol Oates' exceptional talent and her ability to peer into the psyche of anyone she chooses. It's a dark, intense, and thought-provoking read that earns its solid four stars. Having just found out in a review of her latest work 'Butcher' that she is 85 years young, it is clear that Joyce Carol Oates is a true literary goddess who has earned a very comfy seat in the modern literary canon's HOF

My friend George had recommended it to me, and when it was reissued, I got it.

Mixed impressions. While it starts well and you expect the action and gore to kick in strongly, you realize that it just goes around in circles. Nevertheless, it has a nice atmosphere and it looks like a modern Frankenstein. Undoubtedly, the author knows how to write.

Three stars because I was expecting something harder (bad influence of Aldapuerta) and it didn't work out for me...

Overall, it's an interesting read, but it didn't quite meet my expectations. Maybe I was just in the wrong mood or had set my hopes too high. However, I would still recommend it to others who enjoy this type of literature, as it does have its merits. The author's writing style is engaging, and the story does have some interesting twists and turns. It's just that for me, it didn't quite deliver the punch that I was looking for.

This is yet another novel of "a journey into the mind of a murderous psychopath."

It is entertaining and can be read very quickly. However, I must admit that I have read other novels that also deal with this theme and that I have liked much more. For example, the magnificent American Psycho or The Killer Inside Me, to name just a few.

The story in this particular novel may have its moments of excitement and intrigue, but it doesn't quite reach the same level as those other outstanding works.

Perhaps it lacks the depth and complexity in character development or the unique perspective that makes those other novels truly stand out.

Nevertheless, it can still provide some light entertainment for those who enjoy this genre.

But for those who are looking for a more profound and engaging exploration of the mind of a psychopath, they may want to look elsewhere.

Overall, it's an okay read, but not one that will leave a lasting impression.

A disturbing and captivating book, I believe the author's objective is to show a side of evil in the least fascinating and sugarcoated way possible.

The writing serves this intention, being fragmented and having elements of disturbance like the "&" instead of "e".

However, I don't feel like giving more than three stars because the level of disgust (as it should be) that it left me with was really too much for my sensibility.

The story is loosely inspired by that of Jeffrey Dahmer. I advise anyone approaching this reading to check the TW because the book is full of them.

This book makes you confront the harsh reality of evil without any filters. It forces you to look at the darker side of humanity and face the uncomfortable truth. The fragmented writing style adds to the overall sense of unease and disorientation.

While it may not be a pleasant read, it is a thought-provoking one that challenges our perceptions and makes us question our own capacity for evil.

Despite its flaws, I would still recommend this book to those who are brave enough to explore the depths of the human psyche.

The story is truly disturbing and dark. It unfolds in a way that makes one's heart heavy with a sense of dread.

As the events progress, it becomes increasingly clear that there is no easy way out. The characters are trapped in a web of circumstances that seem impossible to escape.

The atmosphere is thick with tension, and every moment feels like a step closer to a tragic end.

I find myself constantly hoping that it will take a turn and end differently.

But alas, as the story reaches its conclusion, it leaves me with a feeling of disappointment and sadness.

I wish there could have been a glimmer of hope, a ray of light in the darkness.

Perhaps a different choice by one of the characters, or a twist of fate that would have changed the outcome.

But in the end, it remains a disturbing and dark tale that will stay with me for a long time.

This description is truly captivating.

It presents a work that is not only absolutely chilling but also fully realized as a character study.

The way it delves into the depths of the characters is remarkable, allowing the reader or viewer to gain a profound understanding of their motives, desires, and inner turmoil.

However, it must be noted that there is a certain salaciousness to it, which some might find a bit gratuitous.

Nonetheless, this aspect does not overshadow the overall quality of the piece.

It adds an element of intrigue and perhaps a touch of controversy, making it all the more engaging.

Despite its flaws, the work remains a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the human psyche.

It has the ability to draw the audience in and keep them on the edge of their seats, eager to see how the story unfolds and how the characters will ultimately be transformed.

Overall, it is a work that demands attention and leaves a lasting impression.

I asked Litsy for something truly shocking, and this particular piece was one of the recommendations she gave me. And boy, did it ever deliver on the shock factor!

It's a relatively short read, which I initially thought might not be enough to fully capture the essence of such a disturbing subject. However, I soon realized that the brevity was part of its charm. The writing style took me a little while to get accustomed to, but once I did, I was completely astounded.

Joyce Carol Oates has an uncanny ability to write the mind of a sex-obsessed serial killer with such precision and authenticity. It's truly jarring how believable her portrayal is. I found myself completely immersed in the story, unable to look away.

Also, I have to admit that I could 1000% see Jeffrey Dahmer in this story. After watching the Netflix series featuring Dahmer, the similarities were just too striking. It made the whole experience even more eerie and uncomfortable. Overall, this was a disturbing yet captivating read that I won't soon forget.

{March 8th, 2015} IM DONE FINALLYYYYY

I just completed this book, and I have to say it's been a rather harrowing experience. I can only give it 1.5 stars. The book left me rubbing my eyes, trying to rid myself of all the disturbing imagery it presented. I thought I had an idea of what I was getting into when I picked it up, but boy, was I wrong. Not only was the way it was written rather annoying, with the overuse of abbreviations like "and" becoming "&", but the subject matter itself was just so surreal. It was as if the author had reached into the mind of a serial pedophile killer and brought out all the darkest and most twisted thoughts. Thanks to this book, and especially thanks to Quentin, I don't think I'll ever look at a killer in the same way again. I actually finished the book running away, yelling "IM DONE IM DONE JUST TAKE THE INFERNAL MONSTER AWAY." I'm not kidding. Just thinking about it now makes me shudder, and I feel the need to scrub my brain and everything. This is definitely not a book for the faint of heart.

A very raw and powerful book, just know that for the figure of the protagonist the author was inspired by Jeffrey Dahmer.

This book takes you into the mind of Quentin P_, a seemingly normal guy, in his thirties, who in reality turns out to be a ruthless serial killer obsessed with using lobotomy to create his personal zombie.

Certainly for strong stomachs, as Joyce Carol Oates' writing is very graphic and describes rather creepy scenes.

The first half of the book captured me, much more than the second, and then arrived at an ending that didn't leave me very satisfied.

Overall, "Zombie" is a book that will make you think and feel a range of emotions. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a disturbing and thought-provoking read, it might be worth checking out.

However, I do think that the ending could have been stronger and more conclusive. It felt a bit rushed and left some loose ends that could have been tied up more neatly.

Despite this, I still enjoyed the book and would recommend it to fans of psychological thrillers and horror. Joyce Carol Oates is a talented writer who knows how to create a sense of unease and tension that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

”& ONE TWO THREE hard jolts into the boy’s scrotum & moaning & his own eyes lurching in his head he came, & came, & came. & there was a blackout of how many seconds, or minutes, he did not know. & laying upon the boy shuddering & trying to calm his heart. I love you, don’t make me hurt you. Love love love you!”


Joyce Carol Oates's work has always had a certain darkness to it. However, in Zombie, that darkness is not just a hint or a streak. It is a deep, gaping wound that bleeds profusely. Oates, perhaps without hesitation or remorse, immerses the reader in the thoughts and emotions of a serial killer, much like Jeffrey Dahmer, through first-person narration. The outcome is an unyielding and discomforting dissection of the jugular vein.


This book is not something that can be easily "enjoyed." It is not light reading material that you can casually pick up on an airplane or in the park. Instead, it is a highly disturbing descent into the very depths of hell and the twisted rationale of a killer's mind. Fortunately, it is not overly long. I'm not certain if I could have endured more. JCO knows precisely what to offer her readers. She knows when it's time to stop.


And so, despite being put off and repulsed by it, I must award Zombie five stars. This author is truly a master of her craft... as if we didn't already know that.

Lol, the title cleverly references how the author wrote this on autopilot.

It's quite interesting to note that sometimes, our writing can flow almost effortlessly, as if we are on autopilot. This might be due to our familiarity with the subject matter or our natural writing abilities.

When we write on autopilot, our thoughts seem to translate onto the page without much conscious effort. However, it's important to be aware that this doesn't always mean our writing is of the highest quality.

We should still take the time to review and edit our work, ensuring that our ideas are clearly expressed and that our writing is engaging and error-free.

So, while it can be fun to write on autopilot and see where our words take us, we should also strive to be intentional and thoughtful in our writing.

After all, good writing is a combination of both inspiration and hard work.

It is of great significance to note that the majority of the themes probed in this book pertain to sensitive subject matters. Consequently, my review also delves into these topics. Many individuals might find the book's subject matters and those elaborated in my review to be overwhelming. If this is the case, I suggest you stay away from both. Please be aware that from this point forward, I will be writing about matters that involve reflections on sexual violence, assault, violent crime, and others.

There are authors whose work is burdened with the weight of their reputation with each of their stories—they can scarcely avoid it. Whether their reputations are positive or not is entirely beyond their control. Readers may potentially strive to read an older piece of work from a beloved author to assess the trajectory of their efforts. Whereas, in other instances, the catalog that constitutes their body of work serves as a reassurance that a reader's dislike is valid and even correct.

I confess that, for myself, there are authors whose work I explore in the hope of uncovering what it is that other readers adore. I cannot claim that I am inclined to read something with the demon of hate festering within my veins—I simply do not have the time. However, authors such as Oates remain mysteries to me. I have heard their name murmured between the shelves of books or via a random news article, yet I have seldom discovered the spines of their efforts among all the others. At the time of writing this review, I have read two short stories by Oates, both of which I have found to be completely disappointing.

As I approached this story, I was eager to discover the reason for the author's success. Do not misinterpret my statement; I am not a reader who experiences a complex sense of superiority or who believes themselves to be the keeper of all that is holy and good in literature. Rather, I am always eager to encounter a good story wherever I might find it.

The title of this tale made me uncertain about what I would encounter, as I am not a fan of the tormented existence of the undead. Regrettably, what Oates has done, once again, is take a very real and horrific event and transform it into her own quaint story, affectionately sealed with her initials.

This story is about Jeffrey Dahmer, or if you prefer, Richard Ramirez, although Oates will never deliberately write that. The main character is initially introduced in a very coy manner, almost as if to encourage the reader to feel a pull towards his awkwardness. Swiftly, his character is revealed in trickles; gradually, the reader learns that he is a violent man, a man who has assaulted someone, a man who is a sexual predator, and a man whose intentions are horrific.

Perhaps there are readers for whom this setting will be novel. The essence of this story might seem rather quaint in its approach to violent crimes. However, readers who are aware of the case and the criminal may feel as I do, disgusted.

I can appreciate that a story exists in every corner of the world and within every human experience and action. However, what I cannot support is the repetitive nature of Oates' appropriation of the experiences of people for whom the crimes committed by violent individuals have shattered the course of their lives.

What led her to feel inclined to write this story? What brought her to the verge of replicating the events of Dahmer's life and crimes in a way that left them only slightly veiled by fiction? I find her desire to write this story, and others such as "Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?" (1966) to be uncouth, disrespectful, and uninspired.

This story does nothing but plagiarize the criminal. The main character's motives are never explored because Oates is not writing a unique perspective of a character over whom she has agency; she is writing about a man who was extremely and graphically abusive to numerous people. She is unable to quantify the mind of madness, and she does not attempt to, making her short story very dull. Her writing is not of sufficient quality to stand on its own; the story goes nowhere because readers already know this story—it is a story about real life, and yet the author has found it within herself to cutely adopt the fictional perspective in a very minimal way.

My perspective on this story is colored by disgust; I am uneasy about this author's repeated decision to capitalize on violent crimes to satisfy her desire to rhyme. Yet, for the sake of argument, I will also reflect on the story neutrally; for the benefit of readers and myself. The first question I must pose is, for whom is this story?

Writers may not always have a desire to publish a story in the traditional sense. Perhaps Oates had a desire to work through her dissatisfaction with the world around her, and her chosen form of therapy was to fictionalize the serial crimes of a mentally deranged individual. Perhaps the author felt safer by removing the man's name from his person and, in so doing, stripping him of his agency and freedom to re-offend. Readers may wish to extend some degree of empathy to Oates; she was alive during the period when these crimes were occurring, this person is her countryman, and she might feel hurt that her home harbors horror.

However, even if a reader takes into account the personal connections that the author has to these events, the story itself is poorly constructed. From a structural perspective, Oates has provided the reader with nothing but the alliteration of bad things. The main character is violent and mean; he is cruel and withholding; he is morose and misunderstood.

Why is he this way? Why does the main character feel the need to create a dungeon in his basement? Why does the main character target men? What influence do his sexual inclinations have on his inability to live them authentically? What influence does society have over this man and his sexual orientation? What led the main character to the brink of physical conflict? What physical attributes make the main character a trustworthy individual?

The author does not explore the depth of the character she presents on the page. Are readers supposed to draw such blatant parallels between her character and the real villain that they project him onto the page? If so, this is lazy storytelling. Throughout the story, Oates simply recounts events without connecting them to the main character. He lives in a boarding house, and yet, no essence of this can be linked to his person; what reflections does he draw from being in constant proximity to people he wishes to physically overpower? What level of self-restraint is required for him not to harm everyone in the house?

Ultimately, the story felt underdeveloped and like a cheap attempt to gain attention for the horrors that other people endured. Having read two stories of a similar nature, I cannot help but feel unfavorably towards the author. No skill or dedication of time and effort went into drafting this endeavor. I cannot say for certain that any level of thought or self-awareness was involved in the process of publication either.

Unfortunately, as always, the victims of violent crimes are left to decay on the sidelines and beneath the earth. Their lives are as poorly cared for as the carcass that is the words on Oates' fingertips; uninspired, trite, ramblings of an unrivaled vapidness.

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