The Selection: Book Review

Author: Kiera Cass

Rating: 4 Stars ****

Plot Summary: In a future where the country of Illéa is divided into eight castes, America Singer is a Five. She and her family work as artists for a living with very little money. But when America has the opportunity to become one of the Selected, she chooses to do so over her boyfriend Aspen. When her name is picked, America is taken to the palace along with thirty-four other girls to try and win Prince Maxon's favor. But competition is fierce and her relationship with the Prince is complicated. But at the same time, constant attacks from rebels from other countries are invading the palace, and America is dying to know why.

The Selection is and will always be a spectacular addition to your bookshelves. America Singer is the next Katniss Everdeen in a totally different, yet still future world. A romantic and suspenseful story that will keep you up all night. The castes are an excellent part of the magnificent world Kiera Cass has managed to create, with One being royalty and Eight being homeless. The cover itself is indeed captivating, which is one reason I chose to pick it up XD.

America Singer is a perfect example of what it is like to be unique in a situation where everyone is going for the same thing. While there is conflict, there is confusion for America. Who she will love and how everything is going to work out.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read. I don't want to be too nice with this, though. As there are some issues with it, at least, in my opinion.

First of all, the world-building for Illéa is… well… complicated and confusing. I enjoyed the suspense and all, but there was still some pieces I couldn't piece together even at the end of the book. For instance, "how are the people put into the castes?" It said something about the people of Illéa's ancestors, but what about there ancestors? I understand that this might be revealed in the second book, The Elite, but still, there is just some parts that aren't very clear to me.

Another part that annoys me is when a character dumps America just because he felt guilty for a totally stupid reason! And then he makes a comeback that annoys me so much! What I was thinking when I read it: "Oh, you are so much better than that, America!"

But still, can't wait to go and pick up the second book in the series! The Elite by Kiera Cass. (Picture below,)

So, yeah. It's worth reading. Wouldn't be your first choice of world-building, though. I have mixed feelings about it, but a lot more on the "I like it!" side of things. I suggest searching for it in your local public library like I did. Warning: this may keep you up until morning if you read at night.

- Ashlyn, Aspiring Author of Today