Divergent: 500 Pages, One Amazing Story

A thrilling plot. Intriguing characters. A futuristic science fiction novel. These are the elements that make up one of the most popular books in teen fiction right now, Divergent by Veronica Roth.

The story revolves around main character, Beatrice Prior, a sixteen year old girl living in the dystopian city of Chicago. She lives in a place where there are five types of people, living in groups known as factions. On their sixteenth birthday, each teenager must choose which faction he or she belongs to. However, Beatrice soon realizes that her decision is not quite as simple as those around her. She comes to find out that she is Divergent, meaning she is a mix of three different factions. The novel goes on to describe her journey to finding out who she really is with gut-wrenching obstacles and even a romance along the way.

It seems clear to me why this book has become one of such high praise. The plot itself consistently thickens as readers go deeper and deeper into Beatrice’s (Tris’) world. The book is so popular it has even been made into a cinematic movie, which came out just a few weeks ago. It is the first book of three in Veronica Roth’s trilogy, first published in 2011.

For those who are debating on whether or not they should read it, know that it is a quick and easy read that will keep readers on their toes. There are conflicts with society, with self, and with family as Beatrice tries to juggle staying true to herself along with being loyal to her family. There are quite a few cliffhangers scattered all throughout the novel, each one making it evidently clear as to why it was made into a movie.

I would rate this book an 8 out of 10, and recommend it to anyone who wanted to read a book that was filled with action and suspense. The plot itself makes readers think, and Divergent as a whole is one that is definitely enjoyable among many different types of people.