Akkshitha S
CSE1, I Year
Title: DIVERGENT
Author: Veronica Roth
Date of publication: 26 April 2011
Publisher: HarperCollins
Pages: 487
Genre: Dystopian fiction, young adult, suspense mystery
“Divergent” by Veronica Roth is an enthralling dystopian novel that immerses readers in a society divided into five factions – Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the kind), Erudite (the intelligent), Abnegation (the selfless) and Candor (the honest) by virtues and plagued by corruption. Set in a future Chicago, the story follows sixteen-year-old Beatrice Prior referred to as “Tris” who has come of age to choose her faction in a society which is a daunting task for her. The story is narrated in Tris’s first-person perspective, allowing readers to intimately experience her journey of self-discovery, courage, and rebellion.
Tris’s evolution from uncertainty to empowerment is both compelling and relatable, as she navigates the treacherous landscape of faction politics and societal upheaval. She learns of a sinister plot orchestrated by the Erudite faction to seize control from the governing Abnegation. Tris’s own divergence becomes a target, as those who possess it are seen as threats to the societal order.
Tris’s evolution from uncertainty to empowerment is both compelling and relatable, as she navigates the treacherous landscape of faction politics and societal upheaval. She learns of a sinister plot orchestrated by the Erudite faction to seize control from the governing Abnegation. Tris’s own divergence becomes a target, as those who possess it are seen as threats to the societal order.
Amidst escalating tensions and acts of violence, Tris grapples with her identity and loyalties. She forms a bond with Tobias, a mysterious and enigmatic Dauntless leader also known as Four, who shares her divergence. Together, they uncover the truth behind the faction conflict and the Erudite’s nefarious plans.
The action-packed plot, filled with suspenseful twists and moral dilemmas, keeps readers engaged from start to finish. “Divergent” is a captivating tale that explores the human’s spirit and resilience in the face of oppression which makes it a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction and the ones interested in politics.
Personal Experience:
The plot is engaging and suspenseful and the characters are drawn in a way that relates to a teen’s mind. I personally still remember how much the book inspired and influenced me through the path of making decisions and overcoming conflicts within one’s mind. Even though I was 14 when I read it for the first time, I still recommend this book whenever someone asks for a novel with an easy follow-through storyline that still is engaging and not boring. The story is written in a language that is easily understandable so I would recommend this to someone who wants to embark on the reading journey. The themes of empowerment, resistance, and survival are timely and powerful in this novel. The addition of an abundant amount of stimulating quotes has my heart.
Overall Rating:
4.5/5
The unique concept of factions with the theme set in the future is really well-executed with the strong perspective of the protagonist. Though the overall writing is fast-paced a couple of chapters in the middle of the book feel a little draggy. The story is well developed with strong plots and engaging characters. Overall, it is a good read, and a good book to start with if you are a beginner.
