The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken: A Book Review
Genre: Fantasy, Dystopia
I wasn’t sure what to expect from The Darkest Minds as I tend to stay away from mainline popular culture books as the intense fan base typically leads me to disappointment. I also find that reading during the immediate reaction of publication creates an illusion of perfection over the writing. Going through my books, however, I found the novel that I bought for my cousin back when its movie was being filmed.
Bracken’s first book of the namesake series was a quick and easy read. It flowed smoothly and concisely. While the ended tied a lot of the loose ends, there is also clear entry for the next book of the series without use of a cliffhanger. Rather, throughout the story, Bracken makes you care deeply for the main characters, Ruby and Liam, and even secondary characters such as one by the name Chubs.
Perhaps the next book in the series will end up into my to-read list.
Throughout the entire story, Bracken looks to what makes people the way they are. By giving them powers in accordance to their own natural gifts, Bracken questions why some people use their talents for themselves only, while others seem to use their talents for the sole benefit of others. While the questions are never truly answered, The Darkest Minds shows just how influential all people can be whether negative or not.
Bracken also gives a warning; there will be people in the world that will use talents for their own benefit. It is up to the person if they are willing to see the usage and end it or change it to help benefit others.
Who would most enjoy the work and who should stay clear (if necessary):
- If you enjoyed The Hunger Games and other dystopia novels
- If you enjoy fantasy novels in which the main character has powers
Plot: 08/10
Characters: 10/10
Writing: 10/10
Editor: 10/10
Total: 38/40
Title: The Darkest Minds
Author: Alexandra Bracken
Edition: First
Published: December 2012
Publisher: Hyperion
ISBN: 9781423157373
If you want to get it: Amazon; Barnes&Noble
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