In Episode 97 of Zombie Book Club, Dan and Leah dissect George A. Romero’s seminal 1978 film Dawn of the Dead, exploring its enduring relevance as both a zombie classic and a sharp critique of consumer culture. From the chaotic newsroom to the corridors of the Monroeville Mall, they examine how Romero's undead reflect societal anxieties about capitalism, race, and gender.

The discussion delves into the psychological complexities of the main characters—Peter, Roger, Stephen, and Francine—and how their dynamics mirror broader themes of survival and identity. With the upcoming Living Dead Weekend at the original filming location, this episode offers a timely reflection on a film that continues to resonate nearly five decades later.

Relevant Links:

• Living Dead Weekend (June 6–8, 2025): Event Details
• Monroeville Mall: TripAdvisor Page
• Axios Article on Monroeville Mall's Future: Read More

• Elevator Pitch
  • The Returned by Jason Strutz: https://returnedcomic.com
    
    

Zombie Book Club Links

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In this episode of Zombie Book Club, we sit down with Darren Smith, host of The Undead Symphony podcast and author of the novel by the same name. Darren shares how his journey from reviewing over 300 zombie films to writing a novel was inspired by listener misconceptions and a desire to explore deeper themes within the genre.

We delve into the unique aspects of his novel, including its symphonic structure, the evolution of zombies from rage-filled runners to traditional shufflers, and the practical survival techniques embedded within the narrative. Darren also discusses the significance of his Jewish protagonist, Yonatan Solomon, and how cultural identity and societal commentary are woven into the fabric of the story.

Guest Contact & Links:

• Podcast: The Undead Symphony
• Instagram: @undeadsymphonypod
• Books by Darren Smith:
  • The Bends
  • God in a Box
  • Shadow's Bliss

Zombie Book Club Links

Sign up for our Newsletter!!!! --- https://zombiebookclub.io/newsletter/

Join the Brain Muncher’s Zombie Collective: https://discord.gg/rn3nPDa4CB

ZBC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombiebookclubpodcast/

Dan's BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/danthezombiewriter.bsky.social

Zombie Book Club Voicemail: (614) 699-0006‬

Zombie Book Club Email: ZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.com

Our Secret Website That Isn't Finished: https://zombiebookclub.io

Our Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts): https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com

In this episode of Zombie Book Club, hosts Dan and Leah delve into the resistance against Negan's authoritarian rule in The Walking Dead. Analyzing the responses of Alexandria, Hilltop, the Kingdom, and Oceanside, they explore how each community transitions from trauma-induced reactions to organized rebellion. The discussion highlights the evolution from submission to strategic coalition-building, emphasizing the importance of unity and resilience in the face of oppression.

Drawing parallels to Timothy Snyder's On Tyranny: Twenty Lessons from the Twentieth Century, the episode examines how the series mirrors real-world strategies for resisting authoritarianism. Themes such as refusing anticipatory obedience, defending institutions, and maintaining truth are explored through the actions of characters like Rick, Michonne, Maggie, and Ezekiel. This episode offers insights into the dynamics of resistance, both in a fictional post-apocalyptic world and in contemporary society.




Contact & Relevant Links:

• Timothy Snyder:
  • Official Website: timothysnyder.org
  • BlueSky: @timothysnyder.bsky.social
  • Books: On Tyranny at Penguin Random House
  • Audiobook: On Tyranny
    
    
• The Walking Dead Resources:
  • The Walking Dead Wiki: walkingdead.fandom.com

• Living Dead Weekend
  • Website: https://www.thelivingdeadweekend.com/
  • Petition: https://www.change.org/p/save-the-monroeville-mall

Zombie Book Club Links

Sign up for our Newsletter!!!! --- https://zombiebookclub.io/newsletter/

Join the Brain Muncher’s Zombie Collective: https://discord.gg/rn3nPDa4CB

ZBC Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zombiebookclubpodcast/

Dan's BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/danthezombiewriter.bsky.social

Zombie Book Club Voicemail: (614) 699-0006‬

Zombie Book Club Email: ZombieBookClubPodcast@gmail.com

Our Secret Website That Isn't Finished: https://zombiebookclub.io

Our Merchandise Store (Where you can find our Evil Magic Chicken Zombie Shirts): https://zombie-book-club.myspreadshop.com