Book Review: The Selection

 

The Selection by Kiera Cass

Publisher: HarperTeen

Published: April 24, 2012

Pages: 327

Summary: The Selection is the opportunity of a lifetime for most girls living in Illea. It is the chance to win the heart of Prince Maxon and the coveted role of Princess. America Singer, however,  does not wish to be part of this glittering pageant. She is content with her secret boyfriend Aspen, even though he is caste below her. So naturally, she is chosen for one of the desired 35 spots in the Selection.

While America is in the castle she learns a lot about her country, the rebels, and Prince Maxon, whom she may have seriously misjudged.

Review/ My thoughts: I don't know why I was hesitant to read The Selection. Perhaps it was the fact that it was yet another dystopian novel released in 2012. Maybe it was the fact that it was another book with just a girl in long dress on the cover (even though in this case it kind of fits). Or maybe the fact that it was being compared to the bachelor.

Whatever the reason, let it be known that I am kicking myself for not reading this sooner. I loved The Selection!

The story sucked me in almost immediately. I was so fascinated with this dystopian world that Kiera Cass. The caste system; people's places determined by wealth from the numbers One to Eight, One being the richest; was an interesting spin we don't see done in the dystopian worlds being written recently.

Let me also just say I liked America's character a lot. I liked the way she carried herself, I liked her honesty, I also liked the fact that she didn't go after Maxon out of spite for Aspen. I generally appreciated her character, which is something I don't say very often.

I, of course, adored Maxon. I was bracing myself for the worst with him. I was afraid he might be a little bit of a jerk, but I was pleasantly surprised. Maxon was sweet, timid, responsible, and refreshingly inexperienced.

As for Aspen, I don't really see his charms in the same way America, I just personally found him annoying.

The rebel attacks were so interesting to me. They were so nondescript and quick, I find myself going "And? And?! AND?!" For the first time in a while we are not part of the rebel group, we part of the group they hate. That's an interesting perspective change.

This book was so fast- paced ad interesting, I finished it in about a day.

5/5 Stars

 I recommend this book to everyone.

 

 

Book Review For Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

Eleanor and Park by Rainbow Rowell

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

Published: February 26, 2013

Pages: 325

Summary: Taken place over the course of 1986 two misfits find love sitting next to each other on a bus.

Review/my thoughts: First off I want to say I absolutely loved this book! I was grinning like a complete idiot the entire time I was reading it. My usually problem with contemporary romances is that often while reading them they feel rushed, like of all sudden you meet someone and you're in love (as if it was that simple). The was not the case with Eleanor and Park. There is a slow ease into their relationship allows you to wade into the waters of their love instead of making you dive in head first. The timid nature of both the characters is sweet and endearing.

The relationship also felt realistic. Park is initially embarrassed of Eleanor, and the embarrassment doesn't fade for some time, as it would be for most teenage boys.

Also Eleanor's home life broke my heart.

Park's parents were pretty funny. They might have been my favorite secondary characters.

Of course, one of the best things were the eighties pop culture references, mostly (awesome) music.

After careful contemplation, I decided Rowell wrote the best possible ending for this book (I think we all know what happens next ;p).  

This book made me laugh, cry, and go awww... without it being too mushy.

I honestly recommend this book to everyone and I don't want to say anymore or I'll spoil everything.

5/5 Stars