"Little Badman and the Rise of the Punjabi Zombies" by Humza Arshad and Henry White.
This book is a whirlwind of laughter, spookiness, and pure chaotic fun that left me wishing for a sequel before I’d even closed the final chapter.
If you’re unfamiliar with Little Badman—aka Humza Khan—allow me to introduce you to one of the most hilariously relatable anti-heroes in children’s literature. Humza is a wannabe rap superstar whose biggest goal in life is to become world-famous (without doing much work, of course). But when his quiet little town becomes overrun with brain-eating zombies, all decked out in traditional Punjabi attire, Humza has no choice but to step up and save the day.
Yes, you read that right. Brain-eating zombies in shalwar kameez.
The authors masterfully balance humour and horror in a way that feels fresh and exciting. Think “Scooby-Doo” meets “Diary of a Wimpy Kid,” but with a South Asian twist that makes it all the more unique. The plot is outrageous, but that's what makes it so delightful. One moment you’re laughing at Humza’s over-the-top self-absorption, and the next you’re genuinely worried about his survival in the face of some terrifyingly funny zombies.
While Humza is the self-proclaimed "star," his friends Umer and Wendy are the real MVPs, grounding the story with their wit and loyalty. And let’s not forget the zombies themselves—simultaneously absurd and menacing, they add just the right amount of chaos to keep readers on their toes.
If you’re looking for a book that’s equal parts thrilling and hilarious, “Little Badman and the Rise of the Punjabi Zombies” should be at the top of your list. It's perfect for middle-grade readers, but trust me—adults will have just as much fun with its laugh-out-loud antics and clever cultural nods.
Until next time, keep reading, keep laughing, and don’t forget to stock up on samosas in case of a zombie apocalypse.🧟♂️
