Four: A Divergent Collection by Veronica Roth

Four: A Divergent Collection provides readers with insight into a specific character, Four, from the Divergent series. The short novel includes multiple scenes from his perspective, as well as the story behind his Choosing ceremony. Before reading this book, readers should read the Divergent series, as it is the premise of the story and world-builds extremely well.

This book was beautiful in various ways. The work shed light on the backstory of the creation of the factions, as well as the political landscape of Divergent. In addition to this, what I found most intriguing was the insight into Four, which gave me a deeper understanding of his character. In the prologue to the work, Roth notes that she had originally wanted to write the Divergent series from the perspective of Tobias (Four), however, it did seem right to her. This was particularly interesting as Tobias’ character never fully felt fleshed out, and through this short work, I was able to connect with Four on a personal level. I recommend this to those who have enjoyed the Divergent series, as I found it better than all of the books, and extremely emotional considering the end to the series.

TA (Gum Spring Library)

Legend by Marie Lu

The specific dystopian society in Legend features society being divided into two sides: the wealthy ‘Republic’ and the oppressed individuals living in poverty. The two main characters, June and Day, are on opposite sides of society, as June is the prodigy of the Republic, while Day is a rebel. However, the two meet when Day is suspected of killing June’s older brother, and they develop a bond that leads to them uncovering greater truths about society.

The writing style in this book stood out to me, as the details allowed me to imagine the setting perfectly. In addition to this, it felt like the characters in the novel were well-developed, as I was able to sympathize and root for both of them in different ways, as well as the relationship they formed. This novel cemented itself as one of my favorite books, however, after realizing the depth of the book and how it relates to society today. Through this book, important themes such as wealth, power, and conformity are highlighted. I would highly recommend this book to those who enjoy a fast-paced dystopian novel with intrigue, romance, and action.

TA (Gum Spring Library)

Adventures of Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn follows the story of a young boy named Huck who attempts to escape his abusive father by running away, then embarking on a long, humorous, and emotional journey with a slave named Jim. On an essential note, critics of the book point out the use of the n-word, which is used over 200 times in the novel by white individuals. Those who are sensitive to the word and are not ready to deal with heavy topics such as racism and societal ideals may not want to read this novel. However, some others point out that the use of the word reflects the attitude and the beliefs of society when the novel was published. Those in favor of the book note that Twain’s use of the word is especially prominent as it forces readers to deal with the uncomfortable truth of racism.

Something that I specifically enjoyed about the book was that it was especially thought-provoking and very ahead of its time. Twain points out several themes throughout the book including the idea of what freedom means. Another thing that interested me was the way that Twain used satire and humor to ridicule society and further confront readers into understanding that conformity is often the norm, however, it is important to think on our own. One thing that I disliked, however, was the lack of a follow-up on certain themes. I do believe that racism was particularly highlighted in the novel, however, I didn’t see a specific part of the book where characters were called out on this. I think that thoroughly reading this book will both educate and entertain readers, especially those who enjoy pondering about real issues while reading fiction.

TA (Gum Spring Library)

Emergency Contact by Mary H.K. Choi

Emergency Contact by Mary H.K. Choi is for lovers of unsuspecting romance and quick wit. I loved how Choi created two perspectives from two wildly different- yet not- realities. 

Emergency Contact follows Penny and Sam. Penny is a college freshman with few friends and a passion for writing. She was brought up by her single mom, Celest, whom she is recently resenting because her mom has a way with guys, and most of the world, that Penny can’t quite figure out. Sam is 21 and lives above the coffee shop he works at, with little direction, no support, and a newly pregnant ex-girlfriend. Sam and Penny have nothing but Jude in common, Jude is Penny’s roommate, and Sam’s ex-niece.

Penny and Sam meet one day when Sam has a panic attack on the side of 6th street. They become each other’s emergency contacts for obvious reasons. For the next few months they text about anything and everything. Eventually they level up to calling each other. Despite the age difference and awkward roommate/niece situation they cannot resist falling absolutely in love with one another.

KL (Gum Spring Library)

Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli is for those who so desperately want to fit in, A.K.A, every young person ever. I loved how the story was from Simon’s slightly jaded, very raw perspective. 

Simon vs. The Homo Sapiens Agenda follows Simon Spier, a high school junior who is just now figuring himself out. Simon lives in Georgia, an infamously conservative state. Simon has dated, kissed, and even seemingly loved girls through his teen years, but it has never felt quite right. The summer before his junior year of high school, he discovers that he’s gay. 

Although Simon knows that his family and friends would most likely be supportive, he feels awkward and secretive anyway. Speaking of secretive, Simon is in love with an anonymous emailer from his school. Simon calls him Blue, and they share their deepest secrets and occasionally drop hints about who they are to each other. Eventually, Simon finds out who the secret emailer is, comes out to his family and friends, and is happier than ever. 

KL (Gum Spring Library)