Quick Review: Divergent by Veronica Roth

You've probably already heard about this widely popular Young Adult novel which is the basis for the movie of the same name coming out this spring. The hype around it is exactly why I decided to put it on my To Be Read in 2014 list.

I understand why it's a YA Bestseller: it's a page-turner with a poignant plot, just the right amount of love story woven throughout, and is definitely thought-provoking. While I didn't want to put it down unless I knew that I'd be able to pick it up again rather quickly, rooting for the characters on one page and questioning their motives on the next, I found myself wishing it delved a little bit deeper, that the writing was a little bit more descriptive and reflective, that the character development was just a little bit stronger. There were also a few scenes of intense violence that left me feeling conflicted, hoping that it would be justified later, but never finding that satisfaction.

Overall I'd say I enjoyed this book and am glad I read it, as it was challenging to my own belief structure and made me question what'd I would do in a society such as this. I'd recommend Divergent, especially with it coming out in theaters in the near future and something so many people are reading, but don't expect it to be as good as some of the other YA dystopian novels out there right now.