Divergent

By: Veronica Roth

Narrated by: Emma Galvin

Length: 11 hrs and 11 mins

Publisher's summary

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue - Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is - she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are - and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves.... or it might destroy her.

Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series - dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.

©2011 Veronica Roth (P)2011 HarperCollins Publishers

Critic reviews

"Though Galvin’s narration is concentrated on giving Tris the perfect voice, she never neglects the secondary characters. Poignant moments with Tris’s mother and Four, her leader and love, are subtly nuanced to let listeners hear the terror Tris often hides.... listeners will hold their breath waiting to see if she can survive the day." ( AudioFile)

Very creative writing

It seemed like it might be a good idea to match natural tendencies and skills with careers, but trying to force complicated humans into five categories is bound to produce problems. I think the author did a good job of addressing many of the problems, and in interesting and readable ways.

Awesome!

Great book! I honestly recommend the series to anyone I can't wait to listen to the rest of the series and see the movies.

Interesting and good listen for young people

I listen to this book on advice from my 12 year old niece. (She has already finished book 2 and can't wait for 3!). Good story, but reminded me a lot of Hunger Games, so if you liked that, you'll like this.

amazing story

loved it so much can't wait to read the next book. thank you so much

Wonderful!

Any additional comments?

This novel is brilliant! I was a bit hesitant but it was gripping, intriguing, and the characters were fabulously developed. I am awed by the young age of the author - what an accomplishment. Trice is a strong, complex, relatable, and inspirational character - perfect for inspiring young women. I am so glad that I took a chance on this series.

Great book, didn't care for the immature narrator

The narrator seemed exceedingly young to me. I understand the choice because the main character is 16, but for some reason I found her voice and intonation difficult to listen to. She didn't capture the heroine as sarcastic and strong as I imagined her, but instead as kind of petty and hostile. I think if I listened to this when I was younger it wouldn't have bothered me.

Otherwise I greatly enjoyed the story and listened to it very quickly. I even listened to it outside the car, instead of watching TV.

Amazing Book

Would you listen to Divergent again? Why?

Yes, I am going to finish the other two books and then probably listen again.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Divergent?

When four saves Tris.

What about Emma Galvin’s performance did you like?

Her voice was just what I imagined Tris to sound like.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When Tris's mom died for her.

Any additional comments?

Loved it!

Not bad

Would you listen to Divergent again? Why?

I wouldn't listen to Divergent again, although I did enjoy it and it kept my interest. I enjoy this genre, and I liked the concept in this book. I was excited to come back to it and I blew through it pretty quickly.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

The ending of this book made me want to dive right into the second book. I downloaded it right away.

Which character – as performed by Emma Galvin – was your favorite?

In my mind, Emma Galvin was the protagonist, Tris. Tris is tough but still vulnerable, and she is constantly evaluating her instincts and changing her behavior to fit each situation.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

I enjoyed the moment at the choosing ceremony where Tris chooses a new faction. Even though you kind of see it coming, the tension leading up to it kept me interested.

Any additional comments?

This was my first download on audible, and I really enjoyed it.

Couldn't stop listening!

Very interesting and had my attention throughout the whole book. Emma Galvin has a great voice.

A tale of self discovery

If you could sum up Divergent in three words, what would they be?

Inspirational, thought provoking and thrilling

What did you like best about this story?

The general sociological aspects of human nature interspersed with the power of individuals who can make a difference. appreciated Tris's journey of self- discovery in accepting flaws, selflessness, bravery, friendship, love and family.

What about Emma Galvin’s performance did you like?

Believable, vulnerable and strong

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes

Any additional comments?

Great read!