Saturday, November 29, 2014

Review: The Selection



Details

Title: The Selection
Author: Kiera Cass
Number of Pages: 327
Publication Date: March 26, 2013
Publisher: HarperTeen

Synopsis

For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself—and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined. 

Review

The story starts with one of America's personal struggles, and how she deals with it. For me, it tended to get a bit emotional, but it progressed really fast. In fact, the first half of the story seemed fast-paced for me, and when it reached the serious and complex parts, it slowed down. The timing was really appropriate and necessary for the story.

America Singer's character was full of doubt and confusion, especially with her feelings. At some times she didn't control them, and the others around her got affected by the outcome of her episodes. However, she was filled with bravery and strength, even confidence. In times of distress, she didn't panic and kept objective to the fact of keeping everyone safe.

Another thing that was really likable about this novel is that the cover really deceived me. I had once thought that I would never pick this book up, because of its girly and posh cover. Gee, I was wrong. It only had a slight trace of "girly-ness" in it. What I did see though, is competition and perseverance. The other Selected girls fought over the crown, some for obsession and others just for the sake of it.

Maxon on the other hand, was ironically naive. He's a great leader, yes, but he didn't exactly know how to move around with girls. And he also felt the pressure his parents were pushing on him. It's not easy ruling a country, so to say, but he managed to be a good character, because of the warmth he brought when he was with America.

I really didn't like Aspen's character. Yes, his situation was really understandable, but really? Did he not have a single sliver of understanding and consideration for Maxon, America, and everyone else? And it was also infuriating because America went along with it! Well, I guess I should just see where this goes......

Overall, I really loved the plot and the characters (except Aspen, sorry, Asperica shippers). I think The Selection is (yes, present tense) a really nice read, and that anyone could read this. Regardless of gender or anything. I suggest that if you haven't read this yet, read it now!!!! Comment below for questions or discussions, etc!

Rating

I rate The Selection 5 out of 5 grenades!!!

About the author

Being married. Cake. The smell of Autumn. Motherhood. Books. Elephants. Back rubs. On demand movies. Actually going out to movies. Faith. Cinnamon rolls. My family. Butterflies. When my kitchen is clean. Crayons. Pink. Tote bags. Dancing. Organizing via color coordination. That my wedding dress was tea length, not floor. Baking. My house. Writing utensils. Paper. India. The sound of water. Making videos. Buttons. The word Episcopalian. Making people laugh. Layering clothes. British accents. Pinterest. Animation. Fireworks. The smell of the Ocean. My wedding rings. Aprons. Reasons to get dressed up. Sex. Pop music. Stars. Taking walks. Daydreaming. Stickers. School Spirit. My friends. Living in a small town. Japan. Singing. Painting my toenails. Pranks/ practical jokes. Painting. Stretch canvas. Costumes. Dipping my fingers in melted wax. Style. Soda. Spending an hour typing at a coffee shop. Musicals. Back to school season. Mopeds. Good hair days. Naps. Not walking up but looking at a beautiful staircase. Driving alone. My ankles. Playlists. Spending entire days in pajamas. Holidays. Telling stories. Spontaneity. Theme parks. Bookshelves. The word copacetic. Boxes. Empty journals. Surprises. Doing things in groups. Doing things alone. Getting real mail. Decorating. Small forks. A good hug. Gift cards. New Years Goals. Going out to dinner. When someone else remembers some great story about me/us that I’ve forgotten. Toy stores. Fireplaces. Breakfast foods. Journaling. Crying for a good reason. Doorbells. Pointless adventures. Voting. My birthday. Reasons to make wishes. Recycling.





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