New York Reads: Post-Apocalyptic Fiction

When it comes to fiction, there are few things we love more than a good old-fashioned apocalypse. Countless cities across the globe have been depicted in ruins on the page and on the screen, from the abandoned London of Danny Boyle's 28 Days Later to the Australian wasteland of Jamie Hewlett's Tank Girl. If you're hungry for an end of the world that hits a bit closer to home, check out these post-apocalyptic novels set right here in NYC.

The Dead and the Gone
Susan Beth Pfeffer's dystopian vision of Earth is one of terrifying changes when an asteroid knocks the moon out of orbit. Amid the chaos of tsunamis, earthquakes and disease epidemics, seventeen-year-old Alex Morales does whatever it takes to stay alive and keep his sisters safe in a devastated Manhattan. Technically a YA novel, this companion book to Life As We Know It is a gripping, poignant story for readers of all ages.

Tooth and Nail
Written by popular apocalyptic horror author Craig Dilouie, this bloody tale follows Iraqi war veteran Todd Bowman as he guides his men through an increasingly violent New York City in the throes of a viral outbreak. I'm not normally a fan of highly military-infused fiction, but I couldn't put this one down. Dilouie's “Mad Dogs” will keep you reading at the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Photo courtesy of samnason.blogspot.com.