"The Selection was no longer something that was simply happening to me, but something I was actively a part of. I was an Elite."
(p. 327)
Title: The Selection
Series Title: The Selection (Book 1)
HARDBACK
Amount of Pages: 327
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Geared Towards: Teens
From: Library
I was not paid for this review
Summary (From Front Flap): 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.
Wdebo's Review: I am not ashamed to admit that I am a lover of reality television, especially dating shows. The dystopian Bachelor-esque premise as well as its gorgeous cover was honestly what attracted me to the book in the first place. Though the intent was good, the execution was lacking. However, even with that, the story, for some reason, was still so addictive.
The first thing that truly stands out to me after reading this book was just how cheesy it was. America is painted as such a perfect person, and you're reminded of it constantly. From her beauty to her kindness and of course we cannot forget about her one little candid/stubborn quirk which of course is a quality the Prince finds endearing. Some of the things that America gets herself into are so over the top can be classified as truly "why America why?" moments. Additionally, even after reading 300 pages I felt like I couldn't connect with any of the characters, even America who I am supposed to be rooting for the most.
Additionally, for a book that is set up in a dystopian society, there is not much in that regards that was brought into the novel. More succinct and enticing backstory, action or fear could have been written in. Honestly, nothing felt very dystopian-like except for the dating gameshow plot. It honestly just seemed like a twisted monarchy with an added caste system. There was so much room for additional plot that could have been added to create a richer story but those details were sadly left behind.
However, despite its many flaws, I do have to admit that the story was addicting. I completed it in one sitting and I still had no idea how. Even though I did find myself shaking my head at the story multiple times, I still wanted to see what happens. Even though I am not sure if I will be continuing with the series, I am happy that this book was able to provide me an entertaining couple of hours.
Cafe Chit Chat: Absolutely gorgeous cover. The blue dress and icy background are such a great mix. (A)
All in all, though this is definitely no literary gem, if you do decide to pick it up, it is a great way to spend a couple hours.
Grade: B-
Wdebo :)
