Written by Veronica Roth, the Divergent series is an irresistible trilogy that’s full of action, suspense, and (for you girls out there) romance! The series contains three books titled Divergent, Insurgent, and Allegiant.

Set in a future world that has been destroyed by the human nature of greed, ignorance, and cowardice, society is split into five factions: Abnegation for the selfless, Candor for the honest, Amity for the peaceful, Dauntless for the brave, and Erudite for the intelligent. The series follows sixteen-year-old Beatrice (nicknamed “Tris”) Prior who learns that she has an aptitude for more than one faction. This is called “Divergent,” and is extremely dangerous. In order to reveal the secret kept from her city, Tris embarks on a dangerous journey with the help of friends. Along the way, she must protect herself from those who threaten to kill her for her Divergence, as well as discover the true meaning of sacrifice, facing your fears, and being brave, honest, and selfless.

After reading the first book in the series, I was captivated with the storyline and became attached to the characters. I especially loved the process of Dauntless initiation, as well as the many plot twists that made me keep reading and finish the book in two days. Insurgent was a little confusing and boring at times, but the cliffhanger at the end really made me eager to keep reading. After months of eagerly waiting, Allegiant finally came out in October 2013! And to be honest, I was very disappointed and angry that Veronica Roth finished the trilogy that way (you have to read it to find out). Although Allegiant clarifies all of the mysteries and unknown questions in the first two books, the mind-blowing finale had me curled up in a corner sobbing for hours! (ok, maybe not) How could the author do something so cruel to her readers? But after reading the third book over again, I was able to realize that Veronica Roth actually wanted to teach us a life important lesson.

I would rate the Divergent series a 9.5 out of 10 and would highly recommend it to anyone over the age of 13, whether you’re a boy or girl. Make sure to read it in time for the movie adaption coming out on March 21, 2014!

-Kaylie W., 9th grade