The No-Brainer’s Guide to Decomposition
by Adrianna Cuevas
Intermediate, Middle School    Harper/HarperCollins    256 pp.
9/24    9780063285545    $18.99
e-book ed.  9780063285569    $9.99

Twelve-year-old Frani feels like Arañita, the metaphorical “spider that lives in my brain web,” jumps from thread to thread, making her easily distracted and often affecting her self-esteem. When she helps her father, a forensic anthropology professor, however, she is fascinated by the study of cadavers and is able to focus. While working at the university’s research facility, Frani and the son of another professor come across some dead bodies that have decidedly not remained dead. The research group launches into an exploit exploring the DUDs (“Definitely Undead Dudes”), even befriending and helping one. While not for the weak-stomached, all the gross-out components of the story—vivid descriptions of the decomposing bodies, including bloated skin and maggot infestations—are done with a minimum of sensationalism. Despite nefarious schemes and zombies, the story is charming and heartwarming overall. ADHD is never mentioned directly, but Arañita provides an apt and relatable metaphor. Offering this book to children who love adventure and a bit of horror is a no-brainer.

From the ">November/December 2024 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.