The Reapers Are the Angels

Author: Alden Bell

Reading level: Age 14-18

Summary:
Temple is a 15-year-old who is born into a crumbling society plagued by zombies. All Temple knows is to kill or be killed. Temple has learned that not only isn't it safe to live in the world because of the "meat-eaters" but because the other surviving humans are the worst monsters of all. Temple was born into this world of horror and death, this is where she belongs and the only thing she knows. In the manner of a true survivor she can find beauty in the simple things around her and even in the very monsters that threaten her life. When she is assaulted at a safe house, she kills her human attacker, Abraham Todd, and the runs from his vengeful brother, Moses. Temple soon acquires a traveling partner, a slow mute by the name of Maury, and begrudgingly takes responsibility for his care, remembering a young boy she swore to protect but couldn't save. Fleeing Moses, the "meatskins," and her own battered conscience, Temple still finds moments of simple joy in the brutal world.

Reviews:
To me, this book is intense. Temple may be 15 but she is living a life like an adult. She goes through many gut-wrenching situations but doesn’t give up. Her character is strong and tough. The language of this novel is perfect and flawless; it is unobtrusive; and the pacing is just right. However, this might not be a book for young readers because of its content about Zombie and content some violent scenes. It is not a conventional horror story but still, it has many graphics and details that parents might be cautious whether or not it is appropriate for their young ones. The one that chooses to read it anyway will find it soul twisting and won’t be disappointed in this supernatural, horror novel.
The Reapers are The Angels is a mature book, the violence and gore are intense and the lessons in it are hard learned. It's the moral though; that I think takes an adult mind to truly grasp. Concepts of sacrifice, family, and morality are rarely conveyed as profoundly as they are in Reapers. Bell has managed to give us the perfect Anti-Heroine in a world without heroes in a time without hope. Temple takes us on a journey through the worst parts of human nature only to show us that in the end, all that matters is what you hold inside of you.
The book left me sad and gloomy thought but also grateful for what I have. I don’t want to give away too much that it spoils the ending. So pick up a copy and read it yourself!

Award: Alex Award