Review: The Selection by Kiera Cass
4:08 PM
Author: Kiera Cass
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: April 24, 2012
# Of Pages: 327 Hardcover
How I got the copy: Library
From Goodreads.com
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 the palace and compete for the heart of the 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.
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.
My Rating: 4/5 Stars
My Review:
þ Dystopian world with caste system
þ Sweet Prince & Hot Boy (love triangle, but different)
þ The Hunger Games meets Pride & Prejudice meets The Bachelor all wrapped in one package
1. Pride & Prejudice- America's family is low on the caste system. Her family needs money and is hoping to get it through her marrying the prince. The mom is obnoxious and freaks out whenever America says she doesn't want to join the competition...like Elizabeth's mom freaks out when she won't marry her cousin. Her dad is more reserved and America is a daddy's girl. When America goes to The Selection competition, she goes in thinking Prince Maxon is an arrogant, proud, spoiled, entitled, a**...um Darcy much? Soon she learns otherwise.
2. The Hunger Games- America is much like Katniss. She provides for her family and goes against the governments rules at times. She has a special skill and everyone seems to find her rude shield she puts up as endearing. There of course is a televised competition and interviews. Gavril, the interviewer reminded me of Caesar. The maids are similar to Katniss' group of fashion consultants. Prince Maxon is gentlemanly and sweet..like Peeta and Aspen is a little more reckless and watches America's journey from home on tv...like Gale.
3. The Bachelor- A lot of girls fighting over a guy on tv. There's some drama and scheming.
Despite all these undeniable similarities I loved this book. The problem is I don't know why. I think the fact that America doesn't even want to win the prince makes it interesting. She just wants the money compensation for her family while she's in the competition. I loved how her relationship with the prince slowly evolved. Yes it was slightly predictable, but I didn't mind. I liked the caste system and the problems it created for the main character. I also thought the ongoing war was pretty interesting. Also, the idea that history is written by the winners and can be altered. I'm excited for the next book because it ended before the competition was over. I need to know who Prince Maxon will pick and if he picks America will she accept? If the similarities won't bother you I highly recommend you pick up this book.
Read More Reviews of This Book
Quotes
“Do you think the ability to sleep in
counts as a special skill?” I asked Dad, trying to sound torn over the decision.
“Yes, list that. And don’t forget to write that you can eat an entire meal in under five minutes,” he replied. I laughed. It was true; I did tend to inhale my food.
“Oh, the both of you! Why don’t you just
write down that you’re an absolute heathen!” My mother went storming from the room.”
― Kiera Cass, The Selection
counts as a special skill?” I asked Dad, trying to sound torn over the decision.
“Yes, list that. And don’t forget to write that you can eat an entire meal in under five minutes,” he replied. I laughed. It was true; I did tend to inhale my food.
“Oh, the both of you! Why don’t you just
write down that you’re an absolute heathen!” My mother went storming from the room.”
― Kiera Cass, The Selection
I know this book got mixed reviews.
If you have read it already...what did you think?
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