‘The Selection’ was quite the popular book a (very long) while ago, but it’s never too late to review it.
Personal Experience:
Quote:
“True l
ove is usually the most inconvenient kind.”
Who should read it? Anyone in the mood for a quick YA read and doesn’t mind stereotypes.
Would I recommend it? This is a tricky one. Considering I found this book entertaining, I would recommend it to anyone expecting sort of the same: a few hours of guilty entertainment.
The Plot
I’d say the plot is pretty much a fictional version of The Bachelor, which kind of qualifies this book as a light, fluffy, perfect guilty pleasure. Thirty-five girls, one prince, one contest (the Selection). Of course, our main character America is the only one who doesn’t seem remotely interested in winning this contest. Predictable? Maybe. But for someone who didn’t have any expectations, I confess the story did manage to entertain me. Now, don’t go ahead and expect this book to be a major masterpiece or to go into deep and complex topics. You get a hint of world-building and a long list of archetypes and tropes. But if you want to be entertained, then definitely give The Selection a go.
The Characters
The characters’ attitudes fit their age range (young adult) and for that, I can forgive their immature, often frustrating actions and decisions. The main character, America, is relatable enough if you are a young adult. Even if you are not, you can still understand the typical fears and doubts of a young woman who doesn’t know how to chose between love, money, stability, family, or wonder whether it’s even possible to have it all. This is a character that seems to grow through the narrative, even if slowly and subtly. With that being said, it doesn’t mean the character is done perfectly well. America doesn’t break the Mary Sue trends of YA these days, and she does seem to be too good / too desirable / too humble / too dreamy to be true.
Aspen is that sort of character that seems to be there just for the sake of a love triangle; he doesn’t bring much to the narrative, even if I felt for him at some point in the beginning. Then I lost any compassion towards him, and I think he deserves America’s reluctance. Maybe I’m outdated, but I don’t think the ultimate proof of love is to send your soul-mate to ‘The Bachelor’ contest. Yes, I’m calling it ‘The Bachelor’ again.
Maxon, well, he’s the perfect prince, not much to say about him; of course he has to be handsome and kind, and of course he has to gain an interest in the only girl that is seemingly unavailable – our main character America.
The Writing Style
The story is narrated from the main character’s PoV (America) and the writing style is suitable enough considering her young age and context. This of course, makes this book light and very easy to read. Somehow the narrative manages you to feel something for the main character (even when she simply annoys you) so something was done right.
Overall, The Selection is a predictable read. It failed to impress, but it succeeded in entertaining.
6 Responses
I have read a book about the same subject. But it was definitely not this one. But I also thought that one was quite predictable. I like the idea of the plot. It can be fun and even surprising depending on how it’s written. It’s a pity this book is predictable. I’ll keep it in mind for if I just want a quick and easy read. Sometimes I like books like these at such a certain moment.
These collection was a hit here in manila, and even Keira Cass also visited here for a book signing (which I failed to attend). When I read the first pages it got me really bored. And Gossip Girl books are better than this.
I was interested in this series… but now I’m not anymore haha.
By the way, how do you manage reading different genres (and finishing, on top of it)? I love reading but I have a preference for writing style which is why I subscribe to specific authors only. I want to be able to read a variety of books without losing interest because the vocab is too deep or the style doesn’t appeal to me. T_T
I wouldn’t invest in continuing the series but it was entertaining while it lasted 🙂 I do read different genres, but I like science fiction and Fantasy best. I hate flowery writing too. I think good writing needs to be clear and easy to follow, while keeping the reader interested 🙂
My friend was tasking about this book and she agreed with you actually. It’s a book that’s never inspired me to read and I don’t think I will now! Ree love30now
May be worth reading while waiting in an airport!
Entertaining is what matters then 🙂