Divergent (Divergent, #1)
by Veronica Roth
by Veronica Roth
Pages: 496
My rating: A+
Source: Library
In Beatrice’s society, people must make a choice at 16 that will affect the rest of their life. They must choose which of the five factions they will become a member of: Abnegation, Candor, Erudite, Dauntless, or Amity. Each faction holds one ideal higher than all else. Tris was raised a member of Abnegation, which values complete selflessness. The day comes that she and her brother must both choose. Do they stay loyal to their family and community in the ranks of Abnegation, or do they forsake all and follow one of the other factions?
Wow. Just wow. This is NOT just another dystopian thriller. I’ve heard it compared to The Hunger Games, which is quite the compliment. Of course, it definitely deserves the praise, but Divergent is great in a different way. It has a completely unique feel and Roth writes with such a beautiful voice and flow. The world that Tris lives in is so different than our own, but there is much to be learned from it. The story is set in Chicago, but it’s a very, very different version of our own windy city. In my opinion Veronica Roth did an amazing job of making you question your own beliefs and the state of our society without being preachy or depressing.
My favorite part? Tris is such a strong female lead. For lack of a more descriptive term, she kicks ass. Another reason to read this? Veronica Roth wrote AND sold it before she was even out of college. Needless to say, the movie rights were quickly scooped right up. I can’t wait to read more from her!