Young Adult book review - By Sierra Yost - Divergent Series

Divergent Series by Veronica Roth 

The Divergent trilogy (Divergent, Insurgent and Allegiant) is a riveting, fast-pasted series that will leave you wanting more of Veronica Roth. A book that includes adventure, action, romance, and a little bit of comedy, is an exciting series sure to be a hit with most young adult readers. It takes place in a dystopian future where people live in factions based on their most prominent personality traits. There are five factions: Dauntless-the brave, Erudite-the intelligent, Abnegation-the selfless, Amity-the peaceful and Candor-the honest. At age sixteen, all of the children go through a brain-simulation that will tell them which of the factions is best suited for them. Then, at the Choosing Ceremony, they make their final, potentially life-changing decision. Some people don’t fit into one category; they are Divergent. This trilogy follows Beatrice Prior, a young Divergent girl, as she struggles to define to herself what it means to be Divergent, and hide it from the rest of the world, because in her world, Divergence is dangerous. Divergence can get you killed.

As Beatrice (now known as Tris) struggles to survive her initiation into the faction she chose, she falls in love with her 18-year-old instructor. Like her with her Divergence, he also has many secrets and the two quickly become close. For those of you who enjoy romance, this subplot will be a satisfying fix throughout all three books. For those of you, like me, who would much rather read about action and adventure, do not worry, this series is great for you too. With fighting and tests of bravery, this book will have you at the edge of your seat. 

Though there are major themes present throughout the entirety of the series, each book will provide a different conflict and overall story. The first two books both end with cliffhangers, so be prepared with the next book close by. With plot twists that will leave you speechless, and a suspenseful climax that will have your eyes glued to the page, you won’t be able to put the books down. Don’t be surprised to find yourself finishing the whole thing in one sitting, it is that addicting. You have been warned. 

On a side note, Divergent is coming out as a major motion picture this coming March. As we all know, the book is usually better than the movie, so this is just another reason to read it now. This way there is less of chance that someone can spoil the ending for you because no one has seen the picture! Not only do you get to read a fantastic trilogy, but you will experience the story without knowing the ending, a more enjoyable way to read. 

Remember: as my great-grandmother always said: “When you have a book, you are never alone!”

*Note: Due to violence, I wouldn’t recommend this series for young children.