Matched, Book 1
Juvenile Fiction
Puffin
2011
369
Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.
Review:
“Matched” is the perfect book to introduce younger readers to the world of dystopias beyond “Animal Farm”. It explores some difficult issues, including trying to control how people live and think, as well as censorship. Everything is chosen for them. What choices they do have are limited to a select few. The government even controls death.
The content is solidly in the PG category, while still holding enough of a love story to get keep the attention of older readers who enjoy that sort of thing. It is a relief that, while there are two possible love interests, it is not really a love triangle. Those are overused and tend to feature at least one unhealthy choice. This does not follow that pattern, which is a relief to me to know younger readers have access to books who present healthy relationships.
Cassia is a fascinating character who the author uses to highlight the challenges of being different in a society that will not tolerate anyone who strays from the norm. Good lessons throughout the book that can leave children with a sense of empowerment over those telling them the things they “can’t” be.
It’s an enjoyable read for anyone from fifth grade and up. A perfect choice for reluctant readers.
Content Warning:
Brief Violence
