The Zombie Protector, by Mae Johnsson

Characters

Of the characters specified within this book, four leading individuals stood out to me.

Ellie, the lead protagonist, is a smart and resourceful young girl, whose unique sense of humour shines through on every page. In addition, she is stubborn, persistently working toward any goal she sets her heart on, commanding a strong will which rivals many of the adult’s own wills in the book. She cares deeply about her sister Ronnie’s wellbeing, despite Ronnie having succumbed to the zombie infection that has spread throughout America. Overall, Ellie was a character that was easily likable, striving to achieve her goal to cure her sister, even when there seemed to be little hope left.

Ronnie, Ellie’s younger sister – now turned zombie – communicates in a series of human growls and appears to have retained some small measure of her humanity. She doesn’t attack humans, however, does attack other zombies if they threaten the safety or wellbeing of Ellie or anyone-else close to them. I found Ronnie to be a fascinating character simply because she is an example of the perfect paradox, a zombie who doesn’t crave human flesh.

Luke, Ellie and Ronnie’s first encountered companion, is an older, blind gentleman who uses his impeccable sense of hearing to aid him in fighting during the apocalypse. Luke proved himself to be a kind and especially helpful companion whose unwavering optimism, despite their difficult circumstances, becomes infectious. His general calm disposition, in addition to his more perceptive nature lent him a wise sense of being which had me quickly warming to him as an individual.

Finally, we come to Mr Ryden, the would-be antagonist of the story. Initially, Mr Ryden seemed somewhat suspicious as a character, as though he was hiding something of great importance from Ellie and her travelling companions. It is later revealed that he is a cruel and inhumane individual, who has committed unspeakable acts in the name of scientific advancement. He was – to put it simply – a terrible human being, whose transgressions caused Ellie and her companions much distress.