America Singer is a Five. Now, in our world, this number would have no meaning. For America however, that number basically set up her entire life. In her country Illéa, there is a caste system. Ones are royalty, rich and always well fed, and if you're an Eight, you're nothing, you get no education, and you're most likely a criminal. Everybody’s caste was decided long ago, based on their ancestor’s ability to help the government after Gregory Illéa founded the country after the Fourth World War. Since America was a Five, her career choices were limited to singer, musician, or any type of artist and all the other citizens of Illéa are also limited to their caste. But for thirty-five girls, they have an opportunity to escape the rigid caste system, live in a gorgeous palace with maids at their hands, and compete for the heart of the handsome Prince Maxton. This opportunity is called the Selection. Most girls would die to be chosen, but not America. She was happy. She loved singing and she didn’t care for riches and pretty dresses. And she had her secret love, Aspen. Even though Aspen was a Six, she still wanted to be with him and marry him. But through her mom’s nagging and because of the very slim chance of her getting chosen through the lottery system to be part of the Selection, she applies. And miraculously she’s chosen. Her mom is ecstatic, her dad is proud, but America is competing for a crown she doesn’t want. Going to the palace, she has no intent of becoming the next Princess of Illéa. Then America meets Prince Maxon and realizes that he may be different then how he seems on TV. Throughout this novel, you will follow along with America Singer as she struggles through her issues with the other girls, fitting in, and who she truly loves.
The Selection is a fun, captivating, young adult page turner by Kiera Cass. I enjoyed this book because it was filled with twists and turns and I always wanted to know what was going to happen next. While I was reading it, it felt like I was in the world just watching a movie play out. This book is the first in the series, and I enjoyed those books as well. For fans of exciting romance novels, The Selection is a great read. I would recommend this book for ages 13 and up.
Review Written by Sydney, 9th Grade