Move over, The Last of Us—nature’s been rocking the zombie apocalypse game for ages! Meet Ophiocordyceps unilateralis, the real-life mind-controlling villain. This parasitic fungus infiltrates ants, hijacking their brains and forcing them into a macabre death march. Under its control, the ant climbs vegetation, clamps down, and dies, leaving its body as a launching pad for the fungus to spread its spores. Chillingly efficient, right? This is sci-fi horror IRL. Next time you’re outdoors, remember: we don’t need HBO for fungal frights—Mother Nature’s got us covered. Who’s ready for some mycological mayhem? (Just don’t breathe too deeply…)
“The Girl with All the Gifts” by M.R. Carey
In a post-apocalyptic world, humanity is devastated by a fungal infection that transforms people into “hungries.” The story follows Melanie, a unique child who may hold the key to humanity’s survival.
“The Puppet Masters” by Robert A. Heinlein
Earth faces an invasion by parasitic aliens that attach to humans, controlling their actions and thoughts. A secret agent battles this covert threat in a tale that examines themes of autonomy and subjugation.
“Circle Tide” by Rebecca K. Rowe
Circle Tide is a speculative fiction novel by Rebecca K. Rowe, The story follows Noah, a rebellious son of privilege, and Rika, a street-smart data thief, as they navigate a gritty subterranean world to uncover the truth behind a brutal murder and prevent an eco-disaster known as Circle Tide.