Journal style books walk a fine line between boredom and over exaggerated action. DBDA does a great job keeping each entry interesting without resorting to every day another monumental event happening. The build up to the apocalypse is realistically covered, much like anyone (should) prepare for a natural disaster. Once the event hits, the author refrains from the typical "survivor in a homemade fortress" and portrays how limited resources will determine where and how you find refuge. There is excellent portrayal of how careful planning, a little ingenuity, and some luck is needed to survive.A note on the zombies: I loved their portrayal. They are not some super race or have some sixth sense ability to find living people. They can be outsmarted but not controlled in any reasonable sense. It adds to the believability that there can be a total zombie takeover but there will also be some survivors with a fighting chance.Can't wait for the sequel!!