In this dystopian society, people believe that love - the medical condition also known as amor deliria nervosa - is an infection that can be cured. Once teens turn 18 they undergo a surgery that makes them "cured" and unable to fall in love. In this society, boys and girls are not allowed to touch or really even talk if they aren't cured. The main character, Lena, cannot wait to be cured after her senior year, she is even counting down the days until her surgery; however, everything starts to change when she meets Alex. She finds herself sneaking out after curfew, listening to unapproved music, talking to a boy, and kissing a boy! Lena starts to question everything she has been taught because she realizes that love may not be as disastrous as she grew up thinking; she also starts to realize that the governments has been lying to society to control them through fear.
This book was very reminiscent of other dystopian novels and teen love novels, but the writing was witty and entertaining. I would recommend this book especially for those who like trilogies. The way the story ends left me wanting more and ready to read the next novel. It also made connections to Shakespeare and other books banned in this society due to their reverence of love. Watch the YouTube Interactive Trailer.
Challenge:
The book is straight forward from a literary sense. One narrator, Lena, and an easy to follow plot.
Curriculum Connection & Themes:
- Free Will vs. Passivity
- Societal Control Through Fear
- Friendship
Lexile: 920L
Reading Level: 6.1
Interest Level: Middle School +
Controversial Scenes & Content:
There really wasn't much controversy here.
Rating: 4/5
Awards:
YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults