Teen fiction seems to be going through a prolifically long phase of dis-topian society books these days. And Delirium is no exception. As the second teen fiction novel written by best-selling author Lauren Oliver, it explores yet another way that society can go all wrong.
Written from a first-person perspective we follow the thoughts of 17-year old Lena as she counts down the days until she is "cured" of amor deliria nervosa, otherwise known as love. Terrified of being infected, Lena prepares for the evaluation that will set her on the path she will travel for the rest of her life. She willed be given an occupation, a "fit" partner, and a guide for how many children she should have. Her life will be free from choice, but more importantly free from pain. And that is all that Lena has ever wanted, the pain of her past to be taken away.
However, fate steps in on the day of Lena's evaluation and her world changes forever. Stumbling through a world that used to make sense, Lena must decide what is truth and what is a lie before she is "cured" forever.
If you're reading this synopsis thinking that this book sounds a lot like the book Matched by Allie Condie, you would be right. There are definitely some similar themes going on in these books - love, choice, & rebellion. However, despite their similarities, I have to say that I enjoyed Delirium more.
For me, Lauren Oliver, does an amazing job creating a dis-topian society that is tangible. Love and hate are two sides of the same coin, so it's easy for me to imagine a place where they have removed all strong emotions to ensure obedience. From this mentality, Oliver explores the role that love plays in our lives - all that it can give and take away - and whether or not it's better to live life with it or without it.
Delirium lacks some of the typical teen fiction devices that often move the story along. There are no love triangles and the teenage angst is minimal. The characters deal with their problems in a direct way. There's no beating around the bush. I, for one, really appreciate the way Oliver develops her characters and the emotions they have. It doesn't feel contrived or silly.
I am greatly hoping that this continues in the sequel, Pandemonium, which is already available. So, if you loved The Hunger Games or Matched, be sure to check this out.
However, fate steps in on the day of Lena's evaluation and her world changes forever. Stumbling through a world that used to make sense, Lena must decide what is truth and what is a lie before she is "cured" forever.
If you're reading this synopsis thinking that this book sounds a lot like the book Matched by Allie Condie, you would be right. There are definitely some similar themes going on in these books - love, choice, & rebellion. However, despite their similarities, I have to say that I enjoyed Delirium more.
For me, Lauren Oliver, does an amazing job creating a dis-topian society that is tangible. Love and hate are two sides of the same coin, so it's easy for me to imagine a place where they have removed all strong emotions to ensure obedience. From this mentality, Oliver explores the role that love plays in our lives - all that it can give and take away - and whether or not it's better to live life with it or without it.
Delirium lacks some of the typical teen fiction devices that often move the story along. There are no love triangles and the teenage angst is minimal. The characters deal with their problems in a direct way. There's no beating around the bush. I, for one, really appreciate the way Oliver develops her characters and the emotions they have. It doesn't feel contrived or silly.
I am greatly hoping that this continues in the sequel, Pandemonium, which is already available. So, if you loved The Hunger Games or Matched, be sure to check this out.
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