Max Brooks has published three zombie-themed books, including the hugely successful World War Z - where a highly infectious virus breaks out in China and sweeps the globe, turning humans into terrifyingly relentless zombies. The book was adapted into a Hollywood blockbuster starring Brad Pitt. His latest novel, Devolution, is centred around a small eco-community that comes under attack from Yeti which are brought into contact with humans after a devastating volcanic eruption. His knack for dystopian horror is a bit of a contrast perhaps to his background - Max is the son of veteran American comedian Mel Brooks and actress Anne Bancroft.