I’m not really sure I’m allowed to review this book. I didn’t technically read it. Rather, I listened to it. Still, it’s a book that I’ve now consumed in some way or another, so I’m going to give my opinion. This book is decidedly okay. The plot doesn’t win any points for originality. It comes off as a mix between Harry Potter and Hunger Games. Despite the story’s less than imaginative setting, the characters were interesting and likeable. Most of the characters were pretty two-dimensional, which is to be expected seeing as this book is targeted to teenagers. These are minor quibbles, and don’t really get in the way of enjoying the story. What’s great about Divergent is the way in which it explores the need for social belonging and conformity, and the way our peers and cultural identifications influence our personal identity. This discussion is highly apropos for members of our modern society, where people are constantly being identified in general ways based on the groups they associate with. Teenagers and adults alike who find themselves torn between their own opinions and needs and the needs of society will find plenty of material to relate to. Plus there’s a little romance, which is pretty nice. Nuff said on that. Now we come to the deal-breaker. Any time Tris (the main character) handles a gun, and especially if she’s actually getting ready to use it, she “clicks a bullet into the chamber.” I’m sorry Veronica Roth, but if you’re going to write a book with guns in it you should really find out how guns work. Real guns don’t have some magic button that “clicks a bullet into the chamber.” Every time this line popped up it just drove me crazy! For that reason alone this book has lost my respect. It was an enjoyable read, but ultimately it was ruined by one single, really annoying little detail.
Score: 6/10 (would have been 7 but for the bullet clicking)
Read This Book if: You like exciting stories about people torn between individuality and societal conformity. Also if you liked Hunger Games and are willing to read something that feels similar but isn’t as good.
Don’t Read This Book if: You know how guns work, or favor stories that have truly original premises.
