Wither is an in-depth, inventive book with just the right amount of creepiness. This dystopian novel is full of elegant, blushing brides, deadly viruses, and forced romance that all lead back to the same idea. Knowing when you will die. The idea of being a ticking time bomb plays a big part in this novel by unravelling a dreadful, saddening tale. 16-year-old Rhine is captured by "gatherers" to be sold into a polygamist marriage. All because of science's efforts to make the perfect human species. Rhine will catch the virus that will cause her death at age 20, leaving her with only 4 years to live. She has recently been spending them sleeping in the basement of her families home with her twin brother. The rest of the world, however, has a different idea of how they should be spent. Instead of her cold, happy life in New York, she is brought to a mansion in Florida to be married and have children.
Rhine is brought into the life of luxury and privilege with the expectation on her to repopulate the earth. She is taken to wild parties and is constantly catered to, all while being locked up in the mansion of her husband who genuinely loves her. All she wants is to leave. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is getting dangerously close too, she attempts to escape the miraculous horror that is her life.
One issue with this book, however, is the adult ideas that are present. Wither suggests that it might be okay for women to be captured and forced to have children. Is it okay? That's exactly the question this book is asking. It is left up to you to agree or disagree. I think it is okay to sacrifice the lives of these women for future generations, but some people might think differently. Another issue about the content, is the adult idea of having children. Yes, the idea of a man and woman sharing a bed is mentioned, but isn't explicitly talked about. I think that although the idea is there, the content does not match it. If you are incredibly worried about it, I wouldn't recommend it. But it isn't a significant part of the book and shouldn't alter your reading experience.
In conclusion, Wither by Lauren DeStefano is a fantastic book that will really make you think. Following Rhine's story through all of the twists and turns will leave you craving the second book in the series. I give this book an A. I couldn't stop thinking about it and wanted more once it ended. If you want a good book, Wither is definitely one to consider.
2 comments:
I want to read whither so bad! At first when i heard about it I thought it was meant for adults. Since students have read it too. I'm definetely going to read it.
I am waiting with baited breathe for the sequel to come out. This book left me thinking about the way we sometimes compromise our morals for the greater good and whether or not we should...Rhine never really does and I think it's wonderful. A must read if you aren't freaked out by the idea of child brides.
Post a Comment