So my goal for 2011 is to read 111 books. That's 11 more than last year for those who have trouble with math like me.
The first book I finished in 2011 ... "Matched
" by Ally Condie. Cassia Reyes is a model student, daughter, and citizen. How could she not be when the Society has everything planned and functioning perfectly? All of her needs are met: food, shelter, education, career training, and even her future husband are selected by officials who know what is best for each individual by studying statistical data and probable odds. She even knows when she will die, on her 80th birthday, just as the Society dictates. At her Match Banquet she is paired with Xander, her best friend and certainly her soul mate. But when a computer error shows her the face of Ky, an Aberration, instead of Xander, cracks begin to appear in the Society's facade of perfection. A series of events also shakes her dedication to Xander and puts her future in jeopardy.
Most of the reviews I have read talk about how Condie basically ripped off the plot of "The Giver
" by Lois Lowry. I haven't read Lowry's book (though I have since purchased it and will read it) so I can't speak to the plagiarism claims. With that in mind, I really enjoyed the book. Its very reminiscent of "The Hunger Games" and other dystopian teen novels.The puppy doesn't want me to finish this post so I will have to try again later. Apparently, she's not much of a reader. Or panda lover.
Up next is "The Secret Daughter"
by Shilpi Somaya Gowda which I have actually almost finished. So look for the review soon.
