Book Review: Insurgent (Veronica Roth)

In Divergent, we were introduced to a unique semi-post-apocalyptic world where society was split up into five groups, and Tris Prior was thrown in the middle of an evil faction plot that led to war.  This follow-up takes off in a thrilling new direction, seeing Tris and her accomplices on the run, hunted, and targeted for some experiment that may change the future.

There is plenty to enjoy out of Insurgent.  At the very least, it is as breezy as its predecessor, with simple language that flows well and has enough color to keep things enjoyable.  It's a fast and enjoyable read, with action, thrills, some levity, and some interesting twists and turns.

However, the experience is hampered a little by the exact same issues that makes other YA stories (like The Hunger Games or Twilight) drag.  As the story of Insurgent goes on, Tris develops a tendency to mope and fixate on things, always questioning feelings and loyalties, to the point where it can stall the story's progress and make her character a little less likable.  The issue is further compounded by a few other character twists and subplots; one important character becomes a traitor, in a twist that makes me want to punch the wall in frustration.  One other character suddenly becomes good, but is still not nearly likable.  The romantic element becomes challenged and strained, and other things happen that makes the story overall feel less likable and endearing.

The story itself is interesting, and it is refreshing to see that it doesn't rehash the first novel.  There is one huge plot twist at the end that is really intriguing and clever.  Sadly, I felt the actual plotting could have been better.  It feels like the characters wander to and from different factions so much, including the enemy faction.  The mystery behind the factions' motives causes the events to fold out in ways that might seem confusing, but really I feel the film adaptation handled it all much better.  The film takes the same plot and condenses it, while making it clear what the enemy's motivations are and keeping things simple.  In the film, it's easy and understanble to follow Tris' journey, because she remains in one setting for most of it.  In the book, it feels like one too many steps to the endgame.

Like before, the book is written with simple, easy-to-read language.  It doesn't get heavy with details and descriptions, but it does have decent dialogue and characterization.  It's just plain good writing all around.

I can't say I find the characters or plot of Insurgent nearly as likable as the first novel, but it is a fun read.  However, I do think the film adaptation fixes a few of the issues present in the book, and straightens the story out a little better.

3.5/5 (Experience:  Good | Story:  Okay | Book:  Pretty Good)