Themes

• Social class and inequality

• Love versus duty

• Identity and self-discovery

• Competition and rivalry

• Political intrigue and power struggles

• Personal growth and transformation

• Sacrifice and difficult choices

Setting

The Selection takes place in a dystopian future version of the United States, now known as the nation of Illéa. The story unfolds in an era where society has regressed to a rigid caste system, with citizens ranked from One (royalty and elites) to Eight (the destitute and unemployable).

While the exact time period is not specified, the setting suggests a post-apocalyptic world that has rebuilt itself with a mix of modern technology and quasi-medieval social structures. The broader geographical area encompasses the former United States, though the extent of Illéa's territory is not fully detailed.

Characters

• America Singer: The protagonist and a member of the Selection. She is a strong-willed, compassionate young woman from a lower caste. America initially enters the competition reluctantly but gradually develops feelings for Prince Maxon. She struggles with her loyalty to her first love Aspen while navigating palace life and politics.

• Prince Maxon Schreave: The crown prince of Illéa and the bachelor at the center of the Selection. Maxon is kind-hearted, intelligent, and duty-bound. He forms a special connection with America and appreciates her honesty. Maxon must balance his growing feelings for her with his responsibilities to the kingdom.

• Aspen Leger: America's first love and a guard at the palace. He comes from an even lower caste than America. Aspen breaks up with her before the Selection but later regrets his decision. His presence at the palace complicates America's feelings and choices.

• Marlee Tames: America's best friend among the Selected girls. She is sweet and supportive. Marlee harbors a secret that puts her position in the competition at risk.

• Celeste Newsome: A rival contestant from a high caste. She is manipulative and willing to sabotage others to win. Celeste sees America as her main competition.

• King Clarkson Schreave: Maxon's stern and intimidating father. He is critical of America and protective of the monarchy's image.

• Queen Amberly Schreave: Maxon's kind and gracious mother. She offers support to the Selected girls and is beloved by the public.

Quick facts

• The book was inspired by the stories of Esther and Cinderella

• It was first published on April 14, 2012 by HarperCollins

• The Selection is the first in a five-book series

• The story is set in a dystopian future version of the United States called Illéa

• Society in the book is divided into a strict caste system numbered from One to Eight

• The main character, America Singer, is from the artist caste (Five)

• There are four companion novellas to the main series

• The CW network attempted to create a TV series adaptation twice, but neither pilot was picked up

• Warner Bros. purchased the film rights in 2015

• Netflix announced plans to adapt the book in 2020, but canceled the project in 2023

About the Author

Kiera Cass is an American author best known for her young adult fiction series The Selection. Born in 1981 in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, Cass graduated from Radford University with a degree in History. Her career as a writer took off with the publication of The Selection in 2012, which quickly gained popularity among young readers.

Cass's writing style is characterized by its blend of dystopian elements and romantic storylines. Her most famous work, The Selection series, follows America Singer as she competes to win the heart of a prince in a dystopian society. The series has expanded to include five main books and several novellas, captivating readers with its mix of romance, political intrigue, and social commentary.

Beyond her writing career, Cass is known for her engaging personality and connection with fans. She maintains an active presence on social media, sharing insights into her writing process and personal life. Cass has been open about her love for cake, her faith, and her experiences as a mother, endearing her to readers who appreciate her authenticity.

While Cass has faced some controversy in her career, particularly regarding interactions with reviewers, she has continued to produce popular works. Her more recent publications include The Betrothed series and the standalone novel A Thousand Heartbeats. Cass currently resides in Virginia with her family, where she continues to write and engage with her devoted fanbase.