Review of The Selection by Kiera Cass: A Crazy, Compelling Ride
Let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good guilty pleasure? That moment of sinking into the world of a book that is as absurd as it is entertaining? Kiera Cass’s The Selection grabbed my attention not just for its striking cover, but also for its premise: a dystopian competition to find a prince’s bride. I dove in with a mix of curiosity and skepticism, ready to see if this royal romp could really live up to the buzz surrounding it.
The story follows America Singer, a girl from a lower caste in a future America transformed into the monarchy of Illea. America is reluctantly thrust into the Selection—a contest where thirty-five girls vie for the attention of Prince Maxon. What follows is a whirlwind of drama, romance, and, let’s just say, a bit of chaos. The premise is undeniably engaging—even if America herself often feels like she’s navigating teenage emotions with the finesse of a toddler in a busy street.
One of the most striking and, frankly, hilarious aspects of the book is its world-building—or lack thereof. Cass introduces us to a world where America is embroiled in a caste system that seems both ridiculous and poignant. The absurdity of a society where names like "America" and "Maxon" feel somewhat outlandish serves its purpose, reminding us just how laughable our standards for royalty can be. Reflecting on the book after finishing, I couldn’t help but think about the parallels to real-life politics. I mean, the author predicted a landscape of wealth disparity and political chaos in ways that are eerily reminiscent of our current climate.
However, the writing style often left me scratching my head. There’s a charming simplicity to Cass’s prose—it’s easy to read and flows smoothly. Yet, I found myself cringing at awkward dialogue and implausible character interactions. Maxon was particularly problematic as a love interest—his flaws made him come off as more creepy than charming, raising an eyebrow rather than a heart flutter.
Amidst all the chaos, I genuinely appreciated America’s growth. She begins as a self-centered girl wrapped in her own problems but gradually sees the bigger picture. And let’s face it—her snarky inner monologue can be downright delightful! One moment she’s grappling with who she is and the other she’s taking inventory of her maids’ names—something she initially dismissed. It’s this blend of growth and sheer absurdity that kept me flipping pages.
The Selection is not without its criticisms, with notable commentary around social constructs and gender dynamics that often felt heavy-handed. America’s lack of awareness around her privilege—and how that affects her relationships—was a particularly frustrating element for me.
That said, The Selection remains a page-turner for readers looking to indulge in a dramatic, romantic fantasy. If you love stories of competition sprinkled with romance and more than a dose of melodrama, then this book might just be your next guilty pleasure. As I closed the last page, I found myself both laughing and shaking my head in disbelief, thinking about the rollercoaster of absurdity I’d just experienced. For anyone willing to suspend their disbelief and dive into a story that’s oddly reflective of current issues while keeping things humorous, Kiera Cass’s work might be just what you need for a weekend escape.
So grab a cozy blanket, prepare your snacks, and get ready for a wild ride through Illea—you might just find yourself rooting for America after all!
Discover more about The Selection (The Selection, #1) on GoodReads >>