Monday, July 16, 2012

Divergent



Forget the Hunger Games. Read Divergent.

Roth's book is similar in concept. The culture has been divided into five kinds of personalities: Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful) and Erudite (the intelligent). The setting is an apocalyptic Chicago and surrounding areas. Sixteen year old Beatrice must choose which group in which she will be trained and live. She has grown up in Abnegation. She knows that her brother, Caleb, will be Abnegation. But she is attracted to the Dauntless. What personality will she tests as?

Beatrice's test results are not the answer she thinks they will be. From now on she will have to make choices that will affect her life and the lives of those around her. Although she is physically slight and seemingly unsure of herself, it is a joy to watch her blossom and come into her own in the book.

I also liked the fact that this was a teen novel with only one true love interest. That seems more like real life. Although one other guy is attracted to her, Beatrice doesn't spend her time wondering which one she likes best, who she should choose, etc. She knows. I found this very refreshing.

I don't want to say too much more about this novel as I would be giving lots of spoilers. I have probably said too much already.

What did this book have to do with my faith? We are always asked to make choices of who we will be as Christians. Traditionally, Christians were thought to be selfless and peaceful. However, we really need to be brave, honest, and intelligent as well. How can we decide one over the other? We certainly should not be categorized as one or the other. Being a whole follower of Christ means living honestly, bravely, selflessly, peacefully and intelligently. Not that this is an easy thing to do but it is what we should strive for. What personality type do you think you could be pegged as?

By the way, Roth begins her dedication page thanking God. I found that interesting.

I highly recommend this book! One of my top ten of 2012 so far.

Happy reading!

Amelia

2 comments:

  1. I really enjoyed The Hunger Games. I look forward to reading this book. Thank you so much for your reviews.

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  2. Let me know what you think! There are also a couple of other books of a similar nature, if you are interested.

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