In Melissa McPherson's debut novel, The Lesser Remain, Eric, a young man with cerebral palsy, faces a fight for survival unlike any he's known. Used to navigating a world that often overlooked him, he now confronts the ultimate challenge: a zombie apocalypse. His usual struggles are amplified tenfold as he battles not only the undead hordes but also the prejudices of a collapsing society. With his loyal friend Olivia by his side, Eric embarks on a perilous journey towards a sanctuary – the one place he's ever truly felt accepted. The Lesser Remain is a gripping survival story that flips the script, proving that even those deemed "lesser" can possess extraordinary strength and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Review The Lesser Remain
Wow, "The Lesser Remain" completely blew me away! I went in expecting a typical zombie apocalypse story – and while it is that, it's so much more. From the very first line, I was hooked. That opening, the quiet dread before the chaos, perfectly set the tone. As a big fan of zombie flicks and shows (from "Shaun of the Dead" to "iZombie," I've seen my fair share!), I initially thought I knew what to expect, but Melissa McPherson expertly subverted my expectations. This isn't just another tale of survival; it's a powerful and refreshing take on the genre.
What truly sets "The Lesser Remain" apart is its protagonist, Eric. He's a teenager with cerebral palsy, a character rarely, if ever, placed at the center of a post-apocalyptic narrative. The typical "first kill" in a zombie movie – the vulnerable, easily picked-off individual – is, in this case, our hero. This immediate, bold choice is brilliant and immediately captivating. It forces you to rethink everything you thought you knew about survival stories and who gets to be the hero. Eric's struggles, both with his disability and the terrifying new world, felt intensely real and deeply empathetic.
The writing style is fantastic. The first-person perspective throws you right into Eric's head, allowing you to experience his anxieties, his triumphs, and his humor firsthand. The pacing is perfect; it's fast-paced enough to keep you on the edge of your seat, but it never feels rushed. There's a wonderful balance of action, suspense, and moments of genuine tenderness and humor. I found myself laughing out loud at some points and completely heartbroken at others. The emotional rollercoaster was completely unexpected, and I absolutely loved it.
Beyond Eric, the supporting characters are equally well-developed. Olivia, Eric's best friend, is a strong, supportive presence, and the relationship between them is beautifully portrayed. The author manages to create a truly believable and compelling world, even amidst the chaos of a zombie apocalypse. The details are rich and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a world struggling to survive. You feel the desperation, the fear, but also the glimmers of hope and resilience.
Frankly, "The Lesser Remain" is a masterpiece of character-driven storytelling within a genre often defined by visceral action. It’s a story about survival, yes, but it's also about friendship, love, and finding your place in a world that might not always want you. It tackles important themes of disability and representation in a way that's both powerful and subtly woven into the narrative. This book isn't just entertaining; it’s thought-provoking and deeply moving. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a gripping story with heart, and a fresh perspective on a well-trodden genre. Melissa McPherson, you've created something truly special, and I can't wait to see what you do next!
Information
- Dimensions: 5 x 0.67 x 8 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 295
- Publication date: 2024
Preview Book
