"The Forest of Hands and Teeth" is a post-apocalyptic young adult novel by Carrie Ryan, published in 2009, that follows the story of Mary, a young girl living in a small village surrounded by a forest filled with dangerous, flesh-eating zombies known as the Unconsecrated.
In a world overrun by the Unconsecrated, Mary and her fellow villagers live behind protective fences, following strict rules to survive. But Mary dreams of a life beyond the village and yearns for the ocean, which she has only heard of in stories. When her village is breached by the Unconsecrated, Mary's world is turned upside down, and she must navigate a treacherous and zombie-infested forest in search of safety and answers.
As Mary embarks on a perilous journey, she uncovers secrets about the history of her village, the true nature of the Unconsecrated, and the existence of a rumored safe haven by the ocean. Along the way, she must confront her own fears, doubts, and desires, as well as face the harsh realities of survival in a post-apocalyptic world.
"The Forest of Hands and Teeth" is a gripping and atmospheric novel that combines elements of horror, romance, and adventure. Ryan's vivid and evocative writing transports readers into a hauntingly dystopian world filled with danger, suspense, and unexpected twists. This novel is the first in a trilogy and offers a thrilling and emotional tale of survival, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom in the face of a zombie apocalypse.