Veronica Roth’s Divergent trilogy is a trilogy of young adult novels set in a dystopian future Chicago and is made up of the books Divergent, Insurgent, and Allegiant. The books follow the character of Beatrice or “Tris” Prior and her family as they discover the truth about their society.
The Divergent series takes place in a world where all citizens are split into five factions; Abnegation (the selfless), Amity (the peaceful), Candor (the honest), Dauntless (the brave), and Erudite (the intelligent). At the age of sixteen, citizens choose which faction they want to belong to or choose to remain factionless. Tris, who grew up in Abnegation, chooses Dauntless and is sent along with other dauntless initiates to a training center to test and push their physical and mental boundaries. During their initiation period, the dauntless initiates learn the five main skills for the dauntless life: shooting and throwing weapons, agility, fearlessness, kindness and knowledge. Despite being a top student, Tris finds it difficult to stay with the other initiates due to her growing relationship with Dauntless leader, Four.
At the same time, it is revealed that Tris has a secret; she is a Divergent. This means that Tris is capable of understanding and mastering multiple skills which most people can’t. Due to this, Tris is chosen to compete in a dangerous experiment which would put her life in danger. This experiment is part of a huge plan by the Erudite to control the other factions and become the only faction in the city.
Tris succeeds in the experiment and soon finds herself on the run with Four and other members of the Dauntless and Abnegation factions as they try to find out the truth behind the Erudite’s plan. As they unravel the truth, they find themselves in a fight for their lives to save the city. Meanwhile, Tris must confront her inner insecurities and her own doubts about her identity as a Divergent in order to complete her mission and save her family and friends.
The Divergent series is full of action, romance, and suspense. It is one of the most popular book series among its young adult audience and has been made into a movie trilogy. As a result, the books’ themes of identity and the power of choice have been placed in the spotlight. Readers are drawn to Tris’s story as she faces conflict with her inner thoughts, with her peers and with the oppressive society in which she lives. Tris is an inspiring protagonist who acts with courage and resilience as she attempts to save her family and her city. Veronica Roth has created a unique, fast-paced story that will have readers on the edge of their seats.
