Book excerpt: A laugh-out-loud funny middle-grade debut with a scary twist, My Zombie Hamster will appeal to readers who like their animal stories mixed with chills. Matt Hunter is looking forward to Christmas—actually, he's looking forward to receiving the latest sword-and-fantasy video game. But Matt's parents have other thoughts—they give him a fluffy little hamster called Snuffles. But the hamster isn't all that cute, especially after part of its cheek and belly fall off. And why is it staring at Matt with black beady eyes and a lean and hungry look? Say hello to Anti-Snuffles, the zombie hamster! Or better yet, run!