January 25

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Divergent, Veronica Roth

Posted by on January 25, 2013 in Reviews | 4 Comments

*****

Divergent

Divergent hc c(2)Author: Veronica Roth

First Edition: 2011

Original language: English

Awards:

Summary:

In the dystopian world of future Chicago, the population is divided into five factions, each representing a human virtue: Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent).   When members turn 16, they chose the faction they will join for the rest of their lives.  Most young people chose the faction in which they were raised, therefore not severing ties with their family and friends.  However, a few transfer into a different faction.

Beatrice Pryor has grown up as a member of Abnegation, and her father is one of their leaders.  However, after receiving confusing results in her aptitude test, Beatrice faces a choice that will change the rest of her life.

Quotes:

“My father says that those who want power and get it live in terror of losing it.  That’s why we have to give power to those who do not want it.”

“Looking away is submissive.  Looking him in the eye is a challenge.  It’s my choice.”

“We believe that preparation eradicates cowardice, which we will define as the failure to act in the midst of fear.”

“Mom used to say that politeness is deception in pretty packaging.”

“Those who seek peace above all else, they say, will always deceive to keep the water calm.”

Opinion:

I really liked this book and read it in a few sittings.  I can’t resist comparing it to The Hunger Games, because it is impossible to deny that they are very similar books about a girl who finds her strength and courage to lead a revolution against an evil repressive society.  HOWEVER, if you liked Hunger Games you will like this book.  Tris is a great character and I liked how the novel focuses on the theme of fear and courage.  I think this is what makes this book a worthwhile read.  I could relate to Tris and admired the way she ultimately found her courage.

I didn’t love the teen romance bit, but different stokes, maybe I’m just jaded.  I don’t know why it bothered me, but it did not bother me enough to stop reading or to not give it a 5-star rating.  I’ll probably end up reading the series.

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