What do you think?
Rate this book
Paul Is Undead: The British Zombie Invasion
LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, IT'S TIME TO REALLY MEET THE BEATLES.
For John Lennon, a young, idealistic zombie guitarist with dreams of global domination, Liverpool seems the ideal place to form a band that could take over the world. In an inspired act, Lennon kills and reanimates local rocker Paul McCartney, kicking off an unstoppable partnership. With the addition of newly zombified guitarist George Harrison and drummer/Seventh Level Ninja Lord Ringo Starr, the Beatles soon cut a swath of bloody good music and bloody violent mayhem across Europe, America, and the entire planet.
In this searing oral history, discover how the Fab Four climbed to the Toppermost of the Poppermost while stealing the hearts, ears, and brains of smitten teenage girls. Learn the tale behind a spiritual journey that resulted in the dismemberment of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Marvel at the seemingly indestructible quartet’s survival of a fierce attack by Eighth Level Ninja Lord Yoko Ono. And find out how the boys escaped eternal death at the hands of England’s greatest zombie hunter, Mick Jagger.
Through all this, one mystery remains: Can the Beatles sublimate their hunger for gray matter, remain on top of the charts, and stay together for all eternity? After all, three of the Fab Four are zombies, and zombies live forever. . . .
For John Lennon, a young, idealistic zombie guitarist with dreams of global domination, Liverpool seems the ideal place to form a band that could take over the world. In an inspired act, Lennon kills and reanimates local rocker Paul McCartney, kicking off an unstoppable partnership. With the addition of newly zombified guitarist George Harrison and drummer/Seventh Level Ninja Lord Ringo Starr, the Beatles soon cut a swath of bloody good music and bloody violent mayhem across Europe, America, and the entire planet.
In this searing oral history, discover how the Fab Four climbed to the Toppermost of the Poppermost while stealing the hearts, ears, and brains of smitten teenage girls. Learn the tale behind a spiritual journey that resulted in the dismemberment of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Marvel at the seemingly indestructible quartet’s survival of a fierce attack by Eighth Level Ninja Lord Yoko Ono. And find out how the boys escaped eternal death at the hands of England’s greatest zombie hunter, Mick Jagger.
Through all this, one mystery remains: Can the Beatles sublimate their hunger for gray matter, remain on top of the charts, and stay together for all eternity? After all, three of the Fab Four are zombies, and zombies live forever. . . .
310 pages, Paperback
First published June 1, 2010
32 people are currently reading
781 people want to read
About the author
Alan Goldsher
29 books40 followersAlan Goldsher is the author of the acclaimed Beatles/horror remix novel, "Paul Is Undead: The British Zombie Invasion" and the forthcoming "The Sound of Music" mash-up "My Favorite Fangs: The Story of the von Trapp Family Vampires."
He has written nine other books, including "Hard Bop Academy: The Sidemen of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers" and "Modest Mouse: A Pretty Good Read." Written as A.M. Goldsher, his chicklit novels "The True Naomi Story," "Reality Check," "Today’s Special," and "No Ordinary Girl" were released by Little Black Dress Books in the U.K. and Marabout in France between 2008-2011.
As a ghostwriter, Alan has collaborated on projects with dozens of notable celebrities and public figures, including comics Kevin Pollak and Bernie Mac, jazz legend George Benson, athletes John Salley and Sarah Reinertsen, and director Tobe Hooper.
His music journalism has appeared in Bass Player and Guitar Player, and his sportswriting has been seen in ESPN The Magazine, ESPN.com, NBA.com, and ChicagoBulls.com. He also reviews books for Kirkus.
During his 10-plus years as a professional bassist, Goldsher recorded with Janet Jackson, Cypress Hill, and Naughty by Nature; toured the world with Digable Planets; and performed at the 1994 Grammy Awards.
Alan lives and writes in Chicago. Visit him at http://www.AlanGoldsher.com.
He has written nine other books, including "Hard Bop Academy: The Sidemen of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers" and "Modest Mouse: A Pretty Good Read." Written as A.M. Goldsher, his chicklit novels "The True Naomi Story," "Reality Check," "Today’s Special," and "No Ordinary Girl" were released by Little Black Dress Books in the U.K. and Marabout in France between 2008-2011.
As a ghostwriter, Alan has collaborated on projects with dozens of notable celebrities and public figures, including comics Kevin Pollak and Bernie Mac, jazz legend George Benson, athletes John Salley and Sarah Reinertsen, and director Tobe Hooper.
His music journalism has appeared in Bass Player and Guitar Player, and his sportswriting has been seen in ESPN The Magazine, ESPN.com, NBA.com, and ChicagoBulls.com. He also reviews books for Kirkus.
During his 10-plus years as a professional bassist, Goldsher recorded with Janet Jackson, Cypress Hill, and Naughty by Nature; toured the world with Digable Planets; and performed at the 1994 Grammy Awards.
Alan lives and writes in Chicago. Visit him at http://www.AlanGoldsher.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews
March 9, 2023
Apparently, every single Beatle was a bit of a tool, or maybe when they became zombies they turned into complete pricks. I have not read any Beatle biographies so I'm not sure which is true.
June 24, 2010
This is one of the funniest books I've read this year.
I have written a review of this book for The New York Journal of Books, but here's a wee teaser:
Take every bit of fact, fiction, or myth uttered about The Beatles as a group or as individuals and throw it aside. Paul Is Undead has rewritten history in such a way that is almost convincing enough to be gospel.
Unfortunately, working with or being a fan of The Beatles can be deadly as documented in the events that happened in The Cavern Club, Shea Stadium, and during the Sgt. Peppers studio sessions. But the reader and Beatleologists will also get a whole new perspective on the “Beatles vs. Stones” debate, the infamous “butchers” album cover, Yoko Ono, and what really happened with (and to) Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
With a growing number of “zombified” classics hitting the market, Paul Is Undead may seem like a weak attempt to jump on the zombie craze bandwagon with a modern tale, but to pass by this book would be a mistake.
I have written a review of this book for The New York Journal of Books, but here's a wee teaser:
Take every bit of fact, fiction, or myth uttered about The Beatles as a group or as individuals and throw it aside. Paul Is Undead has rewritten history in such a way that is almost convincing enough to be gospel.
Unfortunately, working with or being a fan of The Beatles can be deadly as documented in the events that happened in The Cavern Club, Shea Stadium, and during the Sgt. Peppers studio sessions. But the reader and Beatleologists will also get a whole new perspective on the “Beatles vs. Stones” debate, the infamous “butchers” album cover, Yoko Ono, and what really happened with (and to) Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
With a growing number of “zombified” classics hitting the market, Paul Is Undead may seem like a weak attempt to jump on the zombie craze bandwagon with a modern tale, but to pass by this book would be a mistake.
August 1, 2010
The Fall of the House of BeatleZ
It's easy to shrug off this novel as a funny book about the most famous and influential rock band of all time. Look deeper. You'll see scribe Alan Goldsher veils stunning truth behind humorous fiction in his tome, "Paul Is Undead."
Were three of the Beatles really zombies? Before shaking your head no, examine the connection between the band and author Edgar Allan Poe. In his immortal 1967 song "I Am the Walrus," John Lennon cries out, "Man you should have seen them kicking Edgar Allan Poe." Less renowned but no less pertinent is Paul McCartney's shout-out to Poe in his 1968 song unreleased by the Beatles, "Thingumybob." This tune's title is a blatant reference to Poe's "The Literary Life of Thingum Bob, Esq." Combine these unassailable facts with Poe's most famous tale, "The Fall of the House of Usher," noted as "the basis of zombie mythology in modern pop culture" (see darkpartyreview.blogspot.com/2009/01/...), and one conclusion alone raises its rotting head: Goldsher is dancing around shrouded truths, not beguiling lies. In the Beatles-Poe nexus, Poe was the legendary "Fifth Beatle" who ushered the band in things zombie.
Still unconvinced the Beatles were zombies? Find a vinyl copy of the band's 1966 album "Revolver." Play the song "She Said She Said" forwards on a standard turntable at precisely 33 and 1/3 RPM, and confession emerges clear as day to the astute listener: "I know what it's like to be dead." Kudos to Goldsher for venturing where no Beatleologist before him dared.
That said, no way Ringo's a ninja. That's just silly.
It's easy to shrug off this novel as a funny book about the most famous and influential rock band of all time. Look deeper. You'll see scribe Alan Goldsher veils stunning truth behind humorous fiction in his tome, "Paul Is Undead."
Were three of the Beatles really zombies? Before shaking your head no, examine the connection between the band and author Edgar Allan Poe. In his immortal 1967 song "I Am the Walrus," John Lennon cries out, "Man you should have seen them kicking Edgar Allan Poe." Less renowned but no less pertinent is Paul McCartney's shout-out to Poe in his 1968 song unreleased by the Beatles, "Thingumybob." This tune's title is a blatant reference to Poe's "The Literary Life of Thingum Bob, Esq." Combine these unassailable facts with Poe's most famous tale, "The Fall of the House of Usher," noted as "the basis of zombie mythology in modern pop culture" (see darkpartyreview.blogspot.com/2009/01/...), and one conclusion alone raises its rotting head: Goldsher is dancing around shrouded truths, not beguiling lies. In the Beatles-Poe nexus, Poe was the legendary "Fifth Beatle" who ushered the band in things zombie.
Still unconvinced the Beatles were zombies? Find a vinyl copy of the band's 1966 album "Revolver." Play the song "She Said She Said" forwards on a standard turntable at precisely 33 and 1/3 RPM, and confession emerges clear as day to the astute listener: "I know what it's like to be dead." Kudos to Goldsher for venturing where no Beatleologist before him dared.
That said, no way Ringo's a ninja. That's just silly.
June 24, 2010
What do a famous music band, The Beatles and zombies have to do with each other…a lot when Paul is Undead! Yep, you read this right. The Beatles may have come from England and but they were they were not of this world.
John Lennon was already a zombie when he helped formed the Beatles. He was getting better at turning others into zombies without anyone suspecting anything was up. John later recruits Paul. They both go in search of Ninja warrior and talented drummer, Ringo. Eventually, the group obtains George. The Beatles are on the rise. Though, they will have to watch themselves from Mick Jagger. Mick hates zombies and eliminates them every chance he gets.
I really had a blast reading this book. The hilarious plot, wild antics of Paul, Ringo, John, George and the great illustrations made Paul the Undead a pure delight to read. I had a smile on my face pretty much the whole time I was reading this book. Paul, Ringo, John, George were so funny. I liked reading how each one would share their perceptive on the details of what was happening at that moment or during a specific situation. Mick Jagger as a zombie hunter…LOL. Paul the Undead is a zombie chomping, brain munching, gut busting, good time! I can’t wait to read Mr. Alan Goldsher’s next novel, Midnight Movie.
John Lennon was already a zombie when he helped formed the Beatles. He was getting better at turning others into zombies without anyone suspecting anything was up. John later recruits Paul. They both go in search of Ninja warrior and talented drummer, Ringo. Eventually, the group obtains George. The Beatles are on the rise. Though, they will have to watch themselves from Mick Jagger. Mick hates zombies and eliminates them every chance he gets.
I really had a blast reading this book. The hilarious plot, wild antics of Paul, Ringo, John, George and the great illustrations made Paul the Undead a pure delight to read. I had a smile on my face pretty much the whole time I was reading this book. Paul, Ringo, John, George were so funny. I liked reading how each one would share their perceptive on the details of what was happening at that moment or during a specific situation. Mick Jagger as a zombie hunter…LOL. Paul the Undead is a zombie chomping, brain munching, gut busting, good time! I can’t wait to read Mr. Alan Goldsher’s next novel, Midnight Movie.
Read
March 10, 2016I wanted to like this. I used to love that kind of humour (Pratchett et al). I'm a zombie fan and a northener. Music is an obsession of mine. Yet the test of a book is: do you want to pick it up and continue reading? With this, I didn't. I had to force myself to finish it.
Most of the things I like in a book were absent here, for me at least: interesting characters and development; an exciting and unpredictable plot; lovely writing. I made an effort to finish it. I never found anything amusing or interesting, it just left me with the impression of silliness.
I don't mind a slow read if there's an emotional payoff, but there isn't here. It just ends. A fictional history of the Beatles.
When I finished it I immediately picked a book I looked forward to, to cleanse the palate, and the contrast is amazing - I am sneaking reads of the new book at every opportunity, and feel regret putting it down. Paul Is Undead just left me feeling... empty, lifeless, zombiefied. An artistic triumph? Maybe not, I think it was unintentional.
Most of the things I like in a book were absent here, for me at least: interesting characters and development; an exciting and unpredictable plot; lovely writing. I made an effort to finish it. I never found anything amusing or interesting, it just left me with the impression of silliness.
I don't mind a slow read if there's an emotional payoff, but there isn't here. It just ends. A fictional history of the Beatles.
When I finished it I immediately picked a book I looked forward to, to cleanse the palate, and the contrast is amazing - I am sneaking reads of the new book at every opportunity, and feel regret putting it down. Paul Is Undead just left me feeling... empty, lifeless, zombiefied. An artistic triumph? Maybe not, I think it was unintentional.
July 2, 2010
The rock world's most famous story is given the zombie treatment in this very silly send-up. Beatles and Sixties rock fans will find plenty to giggle over, as there are plenty of in-jokes peppered throughout. (My favorite was a subplot involving Rod Argent.)
Although the gross-out zombie gags can get worn thin, the author wisely keeps up the pace and doesn't wear out his welcome. The Monty Python-style wordplay and one-liner jokes had me grinning.
Although the gross-out zombie gags can get worn thin, the author wisely keeps up the pace and doesn't wear out his welcome. The Monty Python-style wordplay and one-liner jokes had me grinning.
January 18, 2011
it seemed like a good idea, but after the 50th time of reading about Lennon and McCartney tearing each others limbs off, or their own (literally tearing limbs off)and throwing each other across the room, it became boring. I was also annoyed that the only word Alan Goldsher used in an english accent was 'fook'.
July 12, 2012
I expected to like this book much more that I actually did. I was surprised to find it was a good historical look at the rise of the Beatles (if you take out all the Zombie and Ninja elements), but it often dragged and I found myself wanting to skip ahead more than once. If you are looking for either a really good Beatles story, or a bloody Zombie story, you may want to look elsewhere.
May 19, 2018
mildly amusing idea but no staying power. got repetitive and boring
July 19, 2019
It's juvenile. It's gratuitously gruesome. It's absolutely hilarious! Definitely one of the funniest books I've ever read.
Imagine a world where zombies have pretty much integrated into society. Then tell the history of the Beatles happening in that world. John's the first to receive "The Liverpool Method" but how many of his band mates will he zombify so they can play together for ever in an effort to reach the toppermost of the poppermost? And what happens to the lads when a zombie hunting Mick Jagger starts jutting his hip bones around the music scene?? Told in interview style with various characters chiming in on the questions, the book moves quickly and hilariously.
This is NOT high literature, but if you like the Beatles, love zombies, and have a sense of humor that needs tickled, read this book!! Some parts get a little over the top (the Roy Orbison thing seemed utterly pointless) and yes, there is some potty humor, but come on, you can't be a literary snob and pick up a book like this.
By the way, I "read" this via the audiobook version narrated by Simon Vance and if you can get your hands on it, I highly recommend it. Simon does a great job at all the voices.
Imagine a world where zombies have pretty much integrated into society. Then tell the history of the Beatles happening in that world. John's the first to receive "The Liverpool Method" but how many of his band mates will he zombify so they can play together for ever in an effort to reach the toppermost of the poppermost? And what happens to the lads when a zombie hunting Mick Jagger starts jutting his hip bones around the music scene?? Told in interview style with various characters chiming in on the questions, the book moves quickly and hilariously.
This is NOT high literature, but if you like the Beatles, love zombies, and have a sense of humor that needs tickled, read this book!! Some parts get a little over the top (the Roy Orbison thing seemed utterly pointless) and yes, there is some potty humor, but come on, you can't be a literary snob and pick up a book like this.
By the way, I "read" this via the audiobook version narrated by Simon Vance and if you can get your hands on it, I highly recommend it. Simon does a great job at all the voices.
October 29, 2024
Fiction or non, Ringo is always the hero.
June 24, 2010
Anyone that knows me knows that I find great humor in these little mashup stories. Combining Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte with Zombies and other fun creatures just makes for one hilarious story. The newest mashup to cross my path is PAUL IS UNDEAD by Alan Goldsher, the story of The Beatles...with zombies!
Paul is the fabulous leader of this foursome, turning people into zombies right and left. He recruits his band members, including the ninja warrior, Ringo, to cause mass chaos and play awesome music. I think the best way to describe the awesomeness of this book is a quote from the description:
"In this searing oral history, discover how the Fab Four climbed to the Toppermost of the Poppermost while stealing the hearts, ears, and brains of smitten teenage girls."
PAUL IS UNDEAD is hilarious because of the clear writing style and unapologetic use of zombies to create hilarity in an otherwise so-so rock star story. Sure The Beatles had a huge rise to fame and enough drama to fill up a book twice this size, but why not add the undead to it? This story is wildly imaginative and fast-paced enough to keep the reader entertained for hours.
One thing that I wasn't really expecting in this book was any sort of character development. It's really easy for a story like this to focus on the bizarre aspect and forget that there still needs to be an actual story. I felt that Mr. Goldsher really did an excellent job maintaining and high quality of writing and development with the plot. The characters were robust, with each having their own personalities and eccentricities. Unfortunately, I'm not too familiar with the personality traits of the individual members of The Beatles so I can't say how their zombie counterparts compare. I can tell you that this new group is fantastic though and great food for a bored mind.
If you don't mind having a little something different thrown into your classic or well known stories, I would suggest giving PAUL IS UNDEAD a try. The story is good, but more than that, the very premise is funny enough to make your time reading it worthwhile.
Paul is the fabulous leader of this foursome, turning people into zombies right and left. He recruits his band members, including the ninja warrior, Ringo, to cause mass chaos and play awesome music. I think the best way to describe the awesomeness of this book is a quote from the description:
"In this searing oral history, discover how the Fab Four climbed to the Toppermost of the Poppermost while stealing the hearts, ears, and brains of smitten teenage girls."
PAUL IS UNDEAD is hilarious because of the clear writing style and unapologetic use of zombies to create hilarity in an otherwise so-so rock star story. Sure The Beatles had a huge rise to fame and enough drama to fill up a book twice this size, but why not add the undead to it? This story is wildly imaginative and fast-paced enough to keep the reader entertained for hours.
One thing that I wasn't really expecting in this book was any sort of character development. It's really easy for a story like this to focus on the bizarre aspect and forget that there still needs to be an actual story. I felt that Mr. Goldsher really did an excellent job maintaining and high quality of writing and development with the plot. The characters were robust, with each having their own personalities and eccentricities. Unfortunately, I'm not too familiar with the personality traits of the individual members of The Beatles so I can't say how their zombie counterparts compare. I can tell you that this new group is fantastic though and great food for a bored mind.
If you don't mind having a little something different thrown into your classic or well known stories, I would suggest giving PAUL IS UNDEAD a try. The story is good, but more than that, the very premise is funny enough to make your time reading it worthwhile.
February 6, 2011
Imagine, if you will, a world where zombies and humans live together in if not perfect harmony, at least a sort of balance. A world where, in fact, zombies are considered a racial minority. Now imagine what would happen if certain celebrities and media icons were zombies? Football players, sprinters, Olympic athletes. What about movie stars? Marilyn Monroe, James Dean, Jeff Bridges. How about musicians? Green Day, Pink, Madonna.
What about the Beatles?
This is exactly the question that Paul Is Undead raises; what if arguably the biggest band in history weren’t four boys from Liverpool, but were, in fact, four zombies from Liverpool? Well, three zombies and one seventh-level Ninja Lord. The book is written as an oral history of “The British Zombie Invasion” which is to say that the author has set the whole book up as interviews with people close to the band, and even the band themselves.
I’m not generally a fan of alternate history fiction, mostly because, well, a lot of it is pretty far-fetched, but Paul is Undead is just SO far-fetched that it’s into the realm of satire and parody and it’s absolutely hilarious. Not only is it hilarious, it’s also well-written enough that I know I’ll be peppering the ‘facts’ from it into any of my future discussions of the Beatles.
It’s a great ride from John Lennon’s Quarrymen days, right up through the years, each chapter has multiple points of view, from the Beatles themselves, to people close to them, to reporters and historians who wrote about them at the time or have written about them since.
Of course, there’s also input from their arch-nemesis Mick Jagger, who also happens to be England’s greatest zombie hunter. This fact, more than any of the others, I think is the one that’s going to stay with me, mostly because I know it’s going to make me laugh whenever I see him, thinking that his hip-swivel is his greatest weapon against the undead.
All in all, Paul is Undead is a fun, oft-times raunchy romp through history as it should have been, and is well worth the read, and even though it weighs in at just over 300 pages, it’s still a quick, easy read.
What about the Beatles?
This is exactly the question that Paul Is Undead raises; what if arguably the biggest band in history weren’t four boys from Liverpool, but were, in fact, four zombies from Liverpool? Well, three zombies and one seventh-level Ninja Lord. The book is written as an oral history of “The British Zombie Invasion” which is to say that the author has set the whole book up as interviews with people close to the band, and even the band themselves.
I’m not generally a fan of alternate history fiction, mostly because, well, a lot of it is pretty far-fetched, but Paul is Undead is just SO far-fetched that it’s into the realm of satire and parody and it’s absolutely hilarious. Not only is it hilarious, it’s also well-written enough that I know I’ll be peppering the ‘facts’ from it into any of my future discussions of the Beatles.
It’s a great ride from John Lennon’s Quarrymen days, right up through the years, each chapter has multiple points of view, from the Beatles themselves, to people close to them, to reporters and historians who wrote about them at the time or have written about them since.
Of course, there’s also input from their arch-nemesis Mick Jagger, who also happens to be England’s greatest zombie hunter. This fact, more than any of the others, I think is the one that’s going to stay with me, mostly because I know it’s going to make me laugh whenever I see him, thinking that his hip-swivel is his greatest weapon against the undead.
All in all, Paul is Undead is a fun, oft-times raunchy romp through history as it should have been, and is well worth the read, and even though it weighs in at just over 300 pages, it’s still a quick, easy read.
September 23, 2010
Review refers to audiobook version
Paul Is Undead is exactly what a musical biography zombie mashup should be… HILARIOUS! How can you go wrong with a story about three undead zombie rockers and their Seventh Level Ninja Lord bodyguard?
These are not the typical mindless, moaning (“Brains.. brains.. “) zombies that I’ve become accustomed to. The Beatles are the result of the “Liverpool Process” that develops zombies with heightened artistic talents and exaggerated zombie powers. They are also virtually immortal so they have ample time to develop their musical skills.
I had heard good things about Paul Is Undead but I was still pleasantly surprised. I laughed through the entire book. Paul Is Undead is full of dark humor that is sure to disgust and offend everyone. Myself included. After reaching one such section of the book I seriously debated on whether I should just stop listening.. but I couldn’t bring myself to turn it off. After all it wasn’t just the funny story that was holding my interest, it was the incredible narration.
Honestly I don’t see how Simon Vance managed this one. Simply an amazing performance. A must listen for fans of great audio production.
Overall: Good tongue in brain fun. Lots and lots of dark humor. Incredible performance by Simon Vance. Alan Goldsher has created a unique world where zombies are known to walk the earth.. and are seemingly tolerated. Especially if you can play a mean skintar.
I can pretty much guarantee that you will be offended at some point in this book. If you can handle that then jump on the zombie Beatle band wagon and follow them from their “death” all the way to the Toppermost of the Poppermost.
Paul Is Undead is exactly what a musical biography zombie mashup should be… HILARIOUS! How can you go wrong with a story about three undead zombie rockers and their Seventh Level Ninja Lord bodyguard?
These are not the typical mindless, moaning (“Brains.. brains.. “) zombies that I’ve become accustomed to. The Beatles are the result of the “Liverpool Process” that develops zombies with heightened artistic talents and exaggerated zombie powers. They are also virtually immortal so they have ample time to develop their musical skills.
I had heard good things about Paul Is Undead but I was still pleasantly surprised. I laughed through the entire book. Paul Is Undead is full of dark humor that is sure to disgust and offend everyone. Myself included. After reaching one such section of the book I seriously debated on whether I should just stop listening.. but I couldn’t bring myself to turn it off. After all it wasn’t just the funny story that was holding my interest, it was the incredible narration.
Honestly I don’t see how Simon Vance managed this one. Simply an amazing performance. A must listen for fans of great audio production.
Overall: Good tongue in brain fun. Lots and lots of dark humor. Incredible performance by Simon Vance. Alan Goldsher has created a unique world where zombies are known to walk the earth.. and are seemingly tolerated. Especially if you can play a mean skintar.
I can pretty much guarantee that you will be offended at some point in this book. If you can handle that then jump on the zombie Beatle band wagon and follow them from their “death” all the way to the Toppermost of the Poppermost.
May 30, 2012
If you are a Beatles and or a zombie fan, this book is one for you! Alan Goldsher, reporter and Beatles maniac creates a mock version of the biographies of each of the Beatles. He begins with John Lennon, who was turned into a zombie on the day he was born. John met Paul McCartney and George Harrison in his teens. All three had a knack for rock and roll and thus the Beatles were officially a band. John, who was brain-hungry turned Paul into a zombie during a band practice. Then Paul turned George. Ringo Starr joined the band after being a substitute drummwer for a gig. Instead of a zombie, Ringo was a level 6 ninja lord. how cool is that!? John wanted to rule the world and music was the way to accomplish it. The zombies worked their way to the "toppermost of the poppermost" as John called it. Their rise to fame included absurd zombie fights, ripping eachothers limbs off and beating on each other; destroying multiple studios; drug experimentation; chasing girls and being chased by them; and of course writing hit singles. The fact that it was a band of zombies made this book absoplutely hysterical! As Goldsher interviews the Beatles, and all Beatles associated people, the laughs unravel. The best part about this book is that most of the facts are real. Goldsher really did his research along with creating a fantastic world of brain-hungry rock stars.
This is a must read! I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a smashing, laughable time!
This is a must read! I highly recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a smashing, laughable time!
March 28, 2020
well, 2.5 stars but I didn't like it enough to round up and for that I'm rather bummed.
I picked up this book in a used book store because the title caught my eye and then the description sounded fun. What would the world have been like had the famous Rock & Roll band "The Beatles" been made up of 3 zombies and 1 Ninja? Color me intrigued. I like a good zombie story. So I picked it up.
Unfortunately I found it a struggle to get through. What kept me going was actually it was pretty funny. There were seriously a LOT of one-liners and turns of phrases that had me chuckling if not down right laughing out loud. But the story... left me flat.
The story is a narrative of "research and interviews" that the author conducted into the history of the Beatles. John Lennon, George Harrison and Paul McCarthy are all zombies - a specific subset that retains memories and is basically human - but for the whole being undead and brain eating thing. John having been made one when he was an infant and then turned Paul and George and Ringo is a 7th level Ninja. It follows their rise, fall, rise and fall again and eventual disbanding of the group.
I suppose that if you actually liked the Beatles (I know heresy but I actually don't like much of their music from any point in their careers) you might like this book. But personally, except for the funny one-liners I found it lacking.
I picked up this book in a used book store because the title caught my eye and then the description sounded fun. What would the world have been like had the famous Rock & Roll band "The Beatles" been made up of 3 zombies and 1 Ninja? Color me intrigued. I like a good zombie story. So I picked it up.
Unfortunately I found it a struggle to get through. What kept me going was actually it was pretty funny. There were seriously a LOT of one-liners and turns of phrases that had me chuckling if not down right laughing out loud. But the story... left me flat.
The story is a narrative of "research and interviews" that the author conducted into the history of the Beatles. John Lennon, George Harrison and Paul McCarthy are all zombies - a specific subset that retains memories and is basically human - but for the whole being undead and brain eating thing. John having been made one when he was an infant and then turned Paul and George and Ringo is a 7th level Ninja. It follows their rise, fall, rise and fall again and eventual disbanding of the group.
I suppose that if you actually liked the Beatles (I know heresy but I actually don't like much of their music from any point in their careers) you might like this book. But personally, except for the funny one-liners I found it lacking.
November 13, 2013
I liked this a lot more than I thought I would. You see, I really dislike zombies, but I really love The Beatles... and, by love, I mean worship, so I thought I'd give it a try. I'm really glad I did. The main problem I have with zombie literature is that every "zombie" author seems to fall into one or two pitfalls: they either try to make the zombies too human and make the whole story sappy (zombies are still monsters for crying out loud and can't be completely "normal" yet undead or--God forbid--lovesick) or they try to gross their readers out with way too much gore (amazing how that's all horror is nowadays: blood and gore). Mr. Goldsher, however, avoided both of these pitfalls with a very nice balance. The zombie Beatles are extremely likable and have a good amount of human emotion behind them; however, they aren't afraid to practice their "zombie nature" on... well... everyone. I also loved the humor. There are a lot of good tongue-in-cheek jokes that hardcore Beatles fans will eat up. I know I did, laughing out loud and getting weird looks from those around me the entire way. Anyway, this was the first zombie book I was able to get through without feeling ill from romantic nonsense (zombies are NOT romantic, end of story) or being grossed out to the point where I had to put it down. And, chances are very likely, that I'll read this one again.
June 13, 2010
Whether or not you love The Beatles and zombies- this brilliant rendition of what music and history would be IF The Beatles were brain junkies will have you rolling.
I don't even have much to say about this book, I simply loved it- don't want to spoil anything for readers. I really went into this book rolling my eyes, but I'm glad I read it anyway! Hilarious. Ninjas! Zombies! Rock 'n Roll! This is the best mockumentary I have experienced since watching "Best in Show" back in 2000. We have all the top dogs dropping cameos: Jesus, Santa Claus, Mick Jagger, Elvis and Roy Orbison. This is Beatlemania in an entirely new light- those of you trivia addicts will be excited that music trivia from the 1960s litters this book.
Dark and humorous- those of you that love The Beatles and don't mind your fabulous four devouring civilians and having an alternate history, will really get into this book. Maybe not for those that aren't into a little bit of gore in their stories... but this is a zombie book, I wouldn't have expected any less. I strongly recommend this book, the wonderful world of humorous horror and zombies collides blissfully with The Beatles to create an enjoyably gruesome fun for all story ;)
I don't even have much to say about this book, I simply loved it- don't want to spoil anything for readers. I really went into this book rolling my eyes, but I'm glad I read it anyway! Hilarious. Ninjas! Zombies! Rock 'n Roll! This is the best mockumentary I have experienced since watching "Best in Show" back in 2000. We have all the top dogs dropping cameos: Jesus, Santa Claus, Mick Jagger, Elvis and Roy Orbison. This is Beatlemania in an entirely new light- those of you trivia addicts will be excited that music trivia from the 1960s litters this book.
Dark and humorous- those of you that love The Beatles and don't mind your fabulous four devouring civilians and having an alternate history, will really get into this book. Maybe not for those that aren't into a little bit of gore in their stories... but this is a zombie book, I wouldn't have expected any less. I strongly recommend this book, the wonderful world of humorous horror and zombies collides blissfully with The Beatles to create an enjoyably gruesome fun for all story ;)
November 5, 2013
"Paul is Undead" by Alan Goldsher is a interesting twist on the tale of the famous band The Beetles. The author sets up an alternate reality in which zombie, vampires and other creatures are real. He writes the book as if he was a journalist interviewing the different Beetles and others who were around the events that took place during their steak. At times there would also be short narrative exports talking about what happened in general and what this journalist had to do in order to talk to certain people. This gives you all of the different perceptions of the people who were there, some are the same while others are different. This was an interesting way of writing that I really enjoyed. I have only read one other book that has been written this way and that was "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer.
Another thing that I enjoyed about this book was the humor used. It helped keep me from just putting down the book and walking away. There was a lot of off-color humor. This was one of the most used types in my
opinion.
I decided to give this book a four out of five because although it kept me interested throughout the duration of the story and I highly enjoyed the writing style, there was just to many random events, and way more crude humor than there needed.
Another thing that I enjoyed about this book was the humor used. It helped keep me from just putting down the book and walking away. There was a lot of off-color humor. This was one of the most used types in my
opinion.
I decided to give this book a four out of five because although it kept me interested throughout the duration of the story and I highly enjoyed the writing style, there was just to many random events, and way more crude humor than there needed.
November 5, 2025
Beatles as zombies, mick jagger as sworn enemy and zombie hunter, ringo Starr as a seventh level ninja lord- this book was absolutely batshit and honestly disgusting. Giving four stars just for giggles.
July 20, 2010
This was my first Zombie book. Ever. I found it funny and charming at first, but I admit by the end the zombie stuff was getting old. I don't know if it was the fact that the Beatles were Zombies, or just the Zombie genre...but I don't think I could read too many zombie books. I found myself getting grossed out by the eating of brains, lol. This from a girl who lived on Stephen King through the 90's. He never did gross me out. But I digress. There was also an awful lot of sexual antics and details than I ever would have guessed, which was a bit strange to me.
The author was very thorough in creating the world of this book. There's a "history" and even rules that the story and characters have to abide by. I give him creativity points for that.
However, the book is not written in "novel" form. It's written as a series of anecdotal interviews, or snippets, from various characters. It was awkward at first but it made the telling of the story simpler.
Anyway...Beatles fans might find it hilarious. I did. And my favorite character in this book? Ringo!
The author was very thorough in creating the world of this book. There's a "history" and even rules that the story and characters have to abide by. I give him creativity points for that.
However, the book is not written in "novel" form. It's written as a series of anecdotal interviews, or snippets, from various characters. It was awkward at first but it made the telling of the story simpler.
Anyway...Beatles fans might find it hilarious. I did. And my favorite character in this book? Ringo!
November 4, 2010
Two words: "fooking crazy!" Haha! Goldsher's spelling, not mine! This book was something else. I'm actually not a Beatles person. I mean, I obviously know who they are and I've heard practically all of their songs, but I don't consider myself to be a Beatles enthusiast. So for some of the book I actually didn't get some of the inside jokes, but it was still a very good, fun, and crazy read. I do warn anyone that if you are in any way squeamish, or dislike vulgar material, this is totally not for you. You really just have to take the book as it is and go along for the ride and have fun. I think my favorite parts of the book were any sections with Ringo who is a Ninja. A Ninja! How cool is that? I really loved the journalistic style of this book and how Goldsher presented the book in a format that actually made the book much more funnier and clever instead of the typical fiction format. Very eye-catching. So overall, I really enjoyed the book, enjoyed the humor, and enjoyed Goldsher's take on the Beatles.
June 24, 2010
Paul is Undead is a stroke of brilliance! This is such a clever take on the typical, bland rock biography that satires the linear style of those familiar magazine interviews of all parties involved. You truly believe that the Beatles could have been zombies but only needed small portions of brains to continue to exist. It also answers the question of: what if the Beatles had continued on. Yeah, sure John could have still been shot but would have survived. Well, unless they really do break apart--literally.
I also can't wait for the movie version of this book. It looks to be very promising since it is the same company that produced Pulp Fiction. Alan Goldsher also has another music-monster mash up in the works as well. This next one is about Elvis as Frankenstein. That sounds amazing as well.
I also can't wait for the movie version of this book. It looks to be very promising since it is the same company that produced Pulp Fiction. Alan Goldsher also has another music-monster mash up in the works as well. This next one is about Elvis as Frankenstein. That sounds amazing as well.
June 24, 2010
When you think about The Beatles, your mind may think heartthrob at first but in this book, you can see them in a whole new light. If you see them, you better run! John Lennon is a zombie who has a knack for turning others into zombies without anyone noticing. Oh and did I mention that he's forming a rock band? He and Paul are ready to find other members to complete their zombie band. They run into one slight problem. Mick is a zombie slayer making music with the undead. Can you think of anything more ironic?
Sometimes you just need a book that makes you laugh out loud and mutter WTF? I enjoyed this book because everything was so off the wall and it made me remember being a kid and using my imagination to come up with something that will never happen but for a while I get to escape into another world.
Sometimes you just need a book that makes you laugh out loud and mutter WTF? I enjoyed this book because everything was so off the wall and it made me remember being a kid and using my imagination to come up with something that will never happen but for a while I get to escape into another world.
October 16, 2011
This may be the most ridiculous, goriest, and silliest book that I have read this year, but I enjoyed every page of it! The premise of re-writing Beatles-history with the premise of John, Paul and George as zombies (Ringo, as usual, gets a bit left out, but his Ninja Lord status doesn't completely sideline him) was definitely unique and I think that many Beatles fans (those with a sense of humour and a strong stomach) will get a kick out of reading this alternative oral history. The book doesn't cover every scrap of Beatles history, but a lot of the highlights are there, plus "guest-appearances" by other famous faces like Elvis, Bob Dylan and Mick Jagger. I had a great time reading it, and it definitely made me laugh out loud several times. If you're looking for a lighter (but still gory) take on zombies, this definitely fits the bill!
January 11, 2011
Imagine John's a zombie
It's easy if you try
Some hell around us
Since he will never die
Imagine all the zombies
Living for today
You may say that he's a dreamer
But he's not the only one
He hopes someday you'll join him
And the world will be as one
So John Lennon becomes a zombie. Then he meets McCartney and thinks Paul should be one, too. They start a band and soon find George Harrison and turn him into a zombie. But Ringo? Nope, he's a 7th Level Ninja Lord and is too valuable for his defensive abilities. This was a very well done audio book as the narrator was able to capture the many different voices and accents of the people being "interviewed". A fun book for zombie lovers and for those who don't take Beatlemania too seriously.
It's easy if you try
Some hell around us
Since he will never die
Imagine all the zombies
Living for today
You may say that he's a dreamer
But he's not the only one
He hopes someday you'll join him
And the world will be as one
So John Lennon becomes a zombie. Then he meets McCartney and thinks Paul should be one, too. They start a band and soon find George Harrison and turn him into a zombie. But Ringo? Nope, he's a 7th Level Ninja Lord and is too valuable for his defensive abilities. This was a very well done audio book as the narrator was able to capture the many different voices and accents of the people being "interviewed". A fun book for zombie lovers and for those who don't take Beatlemania too seriously.
July 10, 2010
Yes, zombies are all the rage now. The simple truth is I can't say no to a zombie book. I totally went for this book based on its title and cover art. That and the fact that the author is a Chicagoan. I thought, worst case, there will be something worthwhile in it.
There was. This isn't high art, this is a revisionist tale of the British Invasion as a true invasion. Parts of it are funny and parts of it are stupid and parts of it try to be sly with varying rates of success.
Overall it's fun and at its best if you don't take it seriously and just go along for the ride. If you like a zombie tale and like the Beatles, give it a go, it'll be a fookin' good time.
There was. This isn't high art, this is a revisionist tale of the British Invasion as a true invasion. Parts of it are funny and parts of it are stupid and parts of it try to be sly with varying rates of success.
Overall it's fun and at its best if you don't take it seriously and just go along for the ride. If you like a zombie tale and like the Beatles, give it a go, it'll be a fookin' good time.
August 8, 2010
This was hilarious! The Beatles as zombies - I loved, loved, loved it! I happen to be somewhat of a Beatlemaniac since I was six, and you have to really know a lot about the Beatles to appreciate this. Yes, the language is off color and somewhat offensive, but you have to take it in stride, this book can't be taken seriously, though it was entirely clever and entertaining. On audio, which is the only way to read this book. A Simon Vance tour de force. 4.5/5
http://ktleyed.blogspot.com/2010/08/p...
http://ktleyed.blogspot.com/2010/08/p...
October 4, 2010
Really enjoyed this a lot. Had no desire to be a zombie before this, but as I listened and got into it, for a while, I really wanted to be a zombie! Well... a Liverpool Zombie, that is. And his characterization of George made me adore him so much more.
Jagger was a wonderful touch, by the way, and I'm impressed with how he handled the Yoko Ono situation. I was personally hoping for a more brutal treatment of her, but some people do like her, and I've no real reason to dislike her. In the end, I thought it was a very neutral, fair way of writing her.
Jagger was a wonderful touch, by the way, and I'm impressed with how he handled the Yoko Ono situation. I was personally hoping for a more brutal treatment of her, but some people do like her, and I've no real reason to dislike her. In the end, I thought it was a very neutral, fair way of writing her.
August 16, 2010
This book was something I had to pick up because I loved the concept of the Beatles as zombies. The beginning rocked, it did get a little slow but the ending made up for it. I think however if you don't have a lot of background knowledge of the Beatles early career and recording info, you may not like it as much as I did because you may not know much about the other characters. A fun read overall though. Stuart Sutcliffe was my favorite, even though he was a brief appearance. ;)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 202 reviews