Status
Available
Call number
Series
Publication
Putnam Juvenile, Hardcover, 305 pages
Description
In a dark future, when North America has split into two warring nations, fifteen-year-olds Day, a famous criminal, and prodigy June, the brilliant soldier hired to capture him, discover that they have a common enemy.
User reviews
LibraryThing member stephxsu
In the war-happy Republic, located in the former western United States, 15-year-old Day is the most wanted criminal. Not because he’s the most dangerous, but because his elusiveness—he was supposed to have died five years ago, after all—discredits the Republic’s control. When Day’s latest
But as their lives cross paths and they get to know one another, the truth they learn about the Republic will change them forever…
A premise that sounds like a dystopian Robin Hood? You didn’t have to ask me twice if I wanted to read this. Marie Lu provides us with a solid dystopian read in her debut novel that, while not incredible, still proves to be very enjoyable.
LEGEND’s strength lies in Lu’s writing. Written in alternating POVs, Day’s and June’s voices feel completely natural: both of them have genius-level intelligences, which shows in the way they approach and analyze situations (a great relief from those YA novels whose main characters claim to be smart but then they do or think the most idiotic things). LEGEND will appeal to readers who like their dystopian books endearingly unsentimental, in the way Katniss is a reluctant but still beloved hero. Both June and Day are like that: they are very focused on what needs to be done, and do not exhibit the types of thoughts or behavior that normal teenagers do.
This makes it believable that they live in a world where violence is part of the job description. This is no half-hearted dystopian world: the government does things that leave even me shocked and uncomfortable. LEGEND will surely become one of those books that censorship-happy critics target due to its darkness.
The trouble is, LEGEND’s violence ¬does feel a bit gratuitous. It’s not that I have qualms about violence in YA fiction; I love The Hunger Games, after all. It’s more that I still struggle to understand what purpose the violence in LEGEND serves, except to make the government as scary as possible. But the revelation that June and Day uncover about the government is rather anticlimactic, considering all the setup. I feel more scared by less violence-proven fictional dystopian governments, such as The Giver’s, than I did by LEGEND’s over-the-top controlling government.
While I adored June and Day individually, I felt like their romance left something to be desired. Here, I suppose, is where their age shows, for their mutual attraction seemed to arise more out of the fact that they each find the other to be different than anyone they’ve ever met and less due to an actual liking of one another. Still, I did like them individually, and thought they were pretty well developed in that regard. I had no problem with those two as the main characters, but perhaps if the book hadn’t been sold to me with such a heavy emphasis on an epic romance I would’ve been more impressed.
So LEGEND is not perfect, but solid writing and two sympathetic main characters make it a cut above most other dystopian YA out there. Dystopian fans will surely want to keep this on their radar, though perhaps toning down your expectations a notch will make it a better read for you.
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break-in leads to the death of Captain Metias Iparis, Metias’ little sister, the child prodigy June Iparis, vows to be the one to hunt Day down.But as their lives cross paths and they get to know one another, the truth they learn about the Republic will change them forever…
A premise that sounds like a dystopian Robin Hood? You didn’t have to ask me twice if I wanted to read this. Marie Lu provides us with a solid dystopian read in her debut novel that, while not incredible, still proves to be very enjoyable.
LEGEND’s strength lies in Lu’s writing. Written in alternating POVs, Day’s and June’s voices feel completely natural: both of them have genius-level intelligences, which shows in the way they approach and analyze situations (a great relief from those YA novels whose main characters claim to be smart but then they do or think the most idiotic things). LEGEND will appeal to readers who like their dystopian books endearingly unsentimental, in the way Katniss is a reluctant but still beloved hero. Both June and Day are like that: they are very focused on what needs to be done, and do not exhibit the types of thoughts or behavior that normal teenagers do.
This makes it believable that they live in a world where violence is part of the job description. This is no half-hearted dystopian world: the government does things that leave even me shocked and uncomfortable. LEGEND will surely become one of those books that censorship-happy critics target due to its darkness.
The trouble is, LEGEND’s violence ¬does feel a bit gratuitous. It’s not that I have qualms about violence in YA fiction; I love The Hunger Games, after all. It’s more that I still struggle to understand what purpose the violence in LEGEND serves, except to make the government as scary as possible. But the revelation that June and Day uncover about the government is rather anticlimactic, considering all the setup. I feel more scared by less violence-proven fictional dystopian governments, such as The Giver’s, than I did by LEGEND’s over-the-top controlling government.
While I adored June and Day individually, I felt like their romance left something to be desired. Here, I suppose, is where their age shows, for their mutual attraction seemed to arise more out of the fact that they each find the other to be different than anyone they’ve ever met and less due to an actual liking of one another. Still, I did like them individually, and thought they were pretty well developed in that regard. I had no problem with those two as the main characters, but perhaps if the book hadn’t been sold to me with such a heavy emphasis on an epic romance I would’ve been more impressed.
So LEGEND is not perfect, but solid writing and two sympathetic main characters make it a cut above most other dystopian YA out there. Dystopian fans will surely want to keep this on their radar, though perhaps toning down your expectations a notch will make it a better read for you.
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LibraryThing member danisnell
Set in a futuristic Los Angeles, the world of Legend is both oddly familiar and completely foreign. The United States no longer exists, and the western states have been enveloped into a new governmental entity known as the Republic – a militaristic state ruled by the ever-elected Elector Primo
Day is a boy who failed the test, a boy who knows firsthand the truth about what happens to the children who don’t pass the the Republic’s trial. Having escaped his fate, he now creates as much trouble for the Republic as he can by destroying military property, stealing supplies, and hindering the war effort against the Colonies. He steals, bets, and scrounges to survive on the streets, constantly on the watch for Republic patrols who consider him enemy number one. Intelligent, intuitive, confident, and endearingly cocky, Day is a hero and a symbol of hope for the Republic’s less fortunate.
Day’s primary concern though is caring for his family who, with the exception of his brother John, think him dead. He checks in on them from afar, provides for their needs when he is able and receives updates on their situation from John. When his family’s front door is suddenly marked as infected by the plague patrols, Day is consumed by one goal only, an objective that will lead him down an irretraceable path.
June, on the other hand, was born into a life of privilege. On her tenth birthday she aced the Republic’s trial becoming the only child to ever receive a perfect score. Now, the Republic’s golden girl, she is receiving the best education possible, being prepared for a much-anticipated military career in service to Elector and country. Incredibly bright and often bored with her studies, June is something of a troublemaker at her university, challenging herself to new heights of achievement with stunts that are frowned upon by school officials. However, once her brother is murdered, June is pulled out of training and put into the field. No one has been able to catch the elusive miscreant-turned-murderer known as Day, and if anyone has a chance of catching him June’s superior officer is betting on the Republic’s vengeance-seeking, star pupil.
In addition to being extremely intelligent, June also displays a fierceness, a strategic mind, a sense of decency, and a hyper-intuitive eye. She is tough as nails, but she has a complete love for and an unshakable loyalty to her brother. Because of this vulnerability – this decision to love her family above the State – June becomes more likeable and more than just another mindless, propaganda-spouting drone. For readers who appreciate a strong, independent female lead, June is sure to please.
One of the recurring themes that appear in dystopian novels seems to be that of the state vs. the individual. It’s fascinating how a group of people, such as the Republic soldiers, can be indoctrinated to the point that their compassion for the individual is no longer a factor in their thought process – that a single human life or multiple lives can be stolen without a second thought, without any empathy at all. The Republic pawns have been robbed of their conscience, or perhaps they consciously choose to ignore that little nagging doubt, so that they may instead enjoy power, privilege and safety. It just never ceases to amaze how people can go along with such atrocities so blindly, and more horrifyingly perhaps, believing in the rightness of their actions. The overall blind devotion to the State, the unwillingness or inability for independent analytical thought, the substitution of the government modus operandi for one’s personal/religious moral code is terrifying, and Lu communicates this very effectively.
In addition to the wonderful characters and the interesting themes, the plot of this story is also very compelling. While not, perhaps the most complicated of mysteries when all is said and done, it’s woven together well, and half the enjoyment of the mystery lies in the way that it’s presented, is it not? It’s well-paced, the danger is convincing and Lu is able to capture a real sense of gravity — a sense of helplessness and pain in the face of overwhelming odds — and it propels the reader through this story with the hope that June and Day will somehow be able to overcome the obstacles they face. Told in tandem by June and Day, Legend is yet another book that employs a shift in first-person narrator from chapter to chapter. And it is another book that uses the device quite well, as the reader is given a front row seat to June and Day’s thoughts and motivations.
Overall, Legend is dystopia well done. A fantastic debut that’s bound for the keeper shelf.
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and Congress. Individual freedoms have been severely limited by the government and every citizen, at the age of 10, is required to take a trial or a test that will determine the course of one’s life from that day forward. If a child scores high enough they will be granted a college education and a promising future with the Republic. If too low a score, the child will be sentenced to a life of dangerous menial labor, poverty and possibly infection by plague. Those who fail the test completely are sent to labor camps, all in service of the glorious Republic and Our Father, the Elector Primo.Day is a boy who failed the test, a boy who knows firsthand the truth about what happens to the children who don’t pass the the Republic’s trial. Having escaped his fate, he now creates as much trouble for the Republic as he can by destroying military property, stealing supplies, and hindering the war effort against the Colonies. He steals, bets, and scrounges to survive on the streets, constantly on the watch for Republic patrols who consider him enemy number one. Intelligent, intuitive, confident, and endearingly cocky, Day is a hero and a symbol of hope for the Republic’s less fortunate.
Day’s primary concern though is caring for his family who, with the exception of his brother John, think him dead. He checks in on them from afar, provides for their needs when he is able and receives updates on their situation from John. When his family’s front door is suddenly marked as infected by the plague patrols, Day is consumed by one goal only, an objective that will lead him down an irretraceable path.
June, on the other hand, was born into a life of privilege. On her tenth birthday she aced the Republic’s trial becoming the only child to ever receive a perfect score. Now, the Republic’s golden girl, she is receiving the best education possible, being prepared for a much-anticipated military career in service to Elector and country. Incredibly bright and often bored with her studies, June is something of a troublemaker at her university, challenging herself to new heights of achievement with stunts that are frowned upon by school officials. However, once her brother is murdered, June is pulled out of training and put into the field. No one has been able to catch the elusive miscreant-turned-murderer known as Day, and if anyone has a chance of catching him June’s superior officer is betting on the Republic’s vengeance-seeking, star pupil.
In addition to being extremely intelligent, June also displays a fierceness, a strategic mind, a sense of decency, and a hyper-intuitive eye. She is tough as nails, but she has a complete love for and an unshakable loyalty to her brother. Because of this vulnerability – this decision to love her family above the State – June becomes more likeable and more than just another mindless, propaganda-spouting drone. For readers who appreciate a strong, independent female lead, June is sure to please.
One of the recurring themes that appear in dystopian novels seems to be that of the state vs. the individual. It’s fascinating how a group of people, such as the Republic soldiers, can be indoctrinated to the point that their compassion for the individual is no longer a factor in their thought process – that a single human life or multiple lives can be stolen without a second thought, without any empathy at all. The Republic pawns have been robbed of their conscience, or perhaps they consciously choose to ignore that little nagging doubt, so that they may instead enjoy power, privilege and safety. It just never ceases to amaze how people can go along with such atrocities so blindly, and more horrifyingly perhaps, believing in the rightness of their actions. The overall blind devotion to the State, the unwillingness or inability for independent analytical thought, the substitution of the government modus operandi for one’s personal/religious moral code is terrifying, and Lu communicates this very effectively.
In addition to the wonderful characters and the interesting themes, the plot of this story is also very compelling. While not, perhaps the most complicated of mysteries when all is said and done, it’s woven together well, and half the enjoyment of the mystery lies in the way that it’s presented, is it not? It’s well-paced, the danger is convincing and Lu is able to capture a real sense of gravity — a sense of helplessness and pain in the face of overwhelming odds — and it propels the reader through this story with the hope that June and Day will somehow be able to overcome the obstacles they face. Told in tandem by June and Day, Legend is yet another book that employs a shift in first-person narrator from chapter to chapter. And it is another book that uses the device quite well, as the reader is given a front row seat to June and Day’s thoughts and motivations.
Overall, Legend is dystopia well done. A fantastic debut that’s bound for the keeper shelf.
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LibraryThing member JessicaSpotswood
The story: June is the Republic’s top prodigy. Day is the Republic’s nemesis–-a trouble-making street kid they can’t catch. When June’s brother is killed, the Republic says Day is to blame, and she’s determined to do whatever she has to in order to bring him to justice. But is she
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avenging her brother’s murder or unwittingly covering up an even bigger crime? This debut, first in a trilogy, is told from stunningly compelling dual points of view. (I really admire writers who can do that.) Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The world–a futuristic LA–is believably gritty without being hopeless. Imo, it’s the first dystopian since HUNGER GAMES to live up to the hype Show Less
LibraryThing member ChemChick
This book pulls you in from the get-go and doesn't let you go until the end. There are three, count 'em, THREE climaxes, the last one leaving you anxiously awaiting the sequel (at least this reader is). Legend is the latest addition to this year's group of engaging, well-written dystopian novels
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with a romantic bent. Yes, there are many young adult books in this genre on the market right now, but this one is definitely worth a read. Show Less
LibraryThing member DeeDee10
I loved this book. I really liked the characters and how different they were, but still some how managed to compliment each other. I can't wait to see what's in store for June and May in the next book in the series. If you liked the Hunger Games then I think that you will like this book as well.
LibraryThing member Jenson_AKA_DL
Set in a dystopian society in an unnamed future two teenagers, both prodigies in their own rights, and on separate sides of a military society gone wrong meet under uncertain circumstances each seeking the truth of what has happened to each of their families.
With the success of the "Hunger Games"
For myself I have a feeling I'm going to be off to look for some lighter fair with a bit of humor in it, but I'm entirely sure that this will appeal to young adults and adults who are looking for more of this type of dark story and would certainly not hesitate to recommend this story in that vein.
With the success of the "Hunger Games"
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series I have a feeling we're going to be lots of these dark, dreary, horrible society type tales (just as we were inundated with vampires after "Twilight"). As with any hit genre there will most likely be many good and many bad. "Legend" marks the start of what seems like it will be a pretty decent addition to this line up. The story held my attention and I enjoyed the back and forth viewpoint between young rebel Day and his flip coin counterpart, June. I did find many parts of the story to be rather predictible but I don't really view this as a downfall. For me the success of the story lies in whether I can stand to sit and immerse myself in the author's world without it feeling like work, and this tale managed it. For myself I have a feeling I'm going to be off to look for some lighter fair with a bit of humor in it, but I'm entirely sure that this will appeal to young adults and adults who are looking for more of this type of dark story and would certainly not hesitate to recommend this story in that vein.
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LibraryThing member MargK
Gosh darn it, sweet baby Jesus, where do I begin this review and how do I do it tactfully?
Oh, screw it! No sugar-coating here. Strap on some bubble wrap, people. This ride is gonna get bumpy.
So, the story is told from two alternating points-of-view: one belonging to June (the heroine) and the other
Seriously, their voices were pretty much indistinguishable throughout most of the book. They had the same personality, the same way of thinking, the same special abilities, the same way of speaking (with the exception of Day’s annoying use of the terms ‘trot’ & ‘cousin’), and the same way of expressing the same emotions. In fact, at one point, Day makes the observation that June is essentially the female version of him, which made me break out into a fit of hyperactive-little-girl giggles because I started to picture Day caressing & making out with himself. Needless to say, this certainly didn’t help me buy into their already shallow, chemistry-deprived romance.
Sadly, my issues with the characters don’t end there.
Look, it makes sense for protagonists meant to be heroes to possess special qualities and abilities that set them apart from the general public. However, there is a max quotient of specialness that I’m able to tolerate. When it’s surpassed and topped off with a steaming pile of naturally-perfect-at-everything-without-even-trying bullshit, something I like to refer to as The Unicorn Effect happens. This basically means that I no longer view the characters as people but as entirely unreal mythical creatures that fart rainbows & glitter. Consequently, I can’t really relate to or take them seriously.
Honestly, the things these 15-year-old kids were able to do and the roles they played in the story were just redonkulous. Day apparently became the society’s most wanted criminal because he was the Jedi Master of Parkour. The silliness of this was compounded by the fact that despite having a bum knee, he was still able to jump & climb like a juiced up monkey and single-handedly defeat numerous grown men who have been trained practically from birth to be super soldiers. Oh, and he could break into a high-security bank in mere seconds and walk away from a 2.5-story fall. Riiight.
June’s capabilities were no less unbelievable. What was even sillier was the notion that an uber strict & controlling military government would promote a child to high-ranking officer and trust her to capture their most wanted criminal…by herself.
That brings me to the plot. It was predictable, clichéd, and had several gaps in logic. Nothing excited or surprised me about the story at all. The plot was so blatantly formulaic that it took no effort whatsoever to figure out what was going to happen next. And just in case you couldn’t guess on your own, the book dropped hints the size of Mt. Everest a couple of pages in advance.
Truth be told, there really wasn’t anything all that original about Legend. I sort of felt like I was reading Divergent & Enclave’s lovechild. I kept thinking to myself, “been there, done that, bought the t-shirt.” To be fair, though, the world-building was a bit more developed than in those two books. Nonetheless, there was still a lot of missing information and important details that prevented me from attaining a clear perspective & understanding of Legend’s dystopian society and why/how it existed as it did.
All in all, I just didn’t enjoy this book. It did absolutely nothing for me. I thought the protagonists were very two-dimensional, I couldn’t bring myself to care about either one of them, and there was just too much eye-roll inducing absurdity going on (e.g. the truth behind the plagues, the Cruella de Ville military leader, the botched execution, the secret message blog, etc.). Plus, the story was slow to unfold and not very deep or meaningful (at least not to me).
Oh, screw it! No sugar-coating here. Strap on some bubble wrap, people. This ride is gonna get bumpy.
So, the story is told from two alternating points-of-view: one belonging to June (the heroine) and the other
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belonging to Day (the hero). Problemo numero uno is that both June & Day sound like the same person except that one has lady bits and the other has a package of the masculine variety.Seriously, their voices were pretty much indistinguishable throughout most of the book. They had the same personality, the same way of thinking, the same special abilities, the same way of speaking (with the exception of Day’s annoying use of the terms ‘trot’ & ‘cousin’), and the same way of expressing the same emotions. In fact, at one point, Day makes the observation that June is essentially the female version of him, which made me break out into a fit of hyperactive-little-girl giggles because I started to picture Day caressing & making out with himself. Needless to say, this certainly didn’t help me buy into their already shallow, chemistry-deprived romance.
Sadly, my issues with the characters don’t end there.
Look, it makes sense for protagonists meant to be heroes to possess special qualities and abilities that set them apart from the general public. However, there is a max quotient of specialness that I’m able to tolerate. When it’s surpassed and topped off with a steaming pile of naturally-perfect-at-everything-without-even-trying bullshit, something I like to refer to as The Unicorn Effect happens. This basically means that I no longer view the characters as people but as entirely unreal mythical creatures that fart rainbows & glitter. Consequently, I can’t really relate to or take them seriously.
Honestly, the things these 15-year-old kids were able to do and the roles they played in the story were just redonkulous. Day apparently became the society’s most wanted criminal because he was the Jedi Master of Parkour. The silliness of this was compounded by the fact that despite having a bum knee, he was still able to jump & climb like a juiced up monkey and single-handedly defeat numerous grown men who have been trained practically from birth to be super soldiers. Oh, and he could break into a high-security bank in mere seconds and walk away from a 2.5-story fall. Riiight.
June’s capabilities were no less unbelievable. What was even sillier was the notion that an uber strict & controlling military government would promote a child to high-ranking officer and trust her to capture their most wanted criminal…by herself.
That brings me to the plot. It was predictable, clichéd, and had several gaps in logic. Nothing excited or surprised me about the story at all. The plot was so blatantly formulaic that it took no effort whatsoever to figure out what was going to happen next. And just in case you couldn’t guess on your own, the book dropped hints the size of Mt. Everest a couple of pages in advance.
Truth be told, there really wasn’t anything all that original about Legend. I sort of felt like I was reading Divergent & Enclave’s lovechild. I kept thinking to myself, “been there, done that, bought the t-shirt.” To be fair, though, the world-building was a bit more developed than in those two books. Nonetheless, there was still a lot of missing information and important details that prevented me from attaining a clear perspective & understanding of Legend’s dystopian society and why/how it existed as it did.
All in all, I just didn’t enjoy this book. It did absolutely nothing for me. I thought the protagonists were very two-dimensional, I couldn’t bring myself to care about either one of them, and there was just too much eye-roll inducing absurdity going on (e.g. the truth behind the plagues, the Cruella de Ville military leader, the botched execution, the secret message blog, etc.). Plus, the story was slow to unfold and not very deep or meaningful (at least not to me).
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LibraryThing member hoosgracie
This was a fast-paced dystopian adventure set in a futuristic LA. Day is poor and failed his trial at age 10 and has been on the run since. June got the only perfect score at her trial and is from a wealthy family and looks to have a promising military career. Now, both 15 their paths cross and
While entertaining, it is highly derivative of The Hunger Games. The book is getting a lot of buzz (movie deal) and will be released in November 2011.
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they discover that not all is what it seems.While entertaining, it is highly derivative of The Hunger Games. The book is getting a lot of buzz (movie deal) and will be released in November 2011.
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LibraryThing member tntwhite
I was selected to be an early reviewer for Legend through Library Thing's Early Reviewer Program. I really enjoyed this book! The premise and characters do bring The Hunger Games to mind, however, I did not find that to be a problem. I think it would be hard to find a YA novel about a dystopian
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society that does not share some of the same elements. While the story was quite predictable, it still had the ability to draw me in and keep me interested in the fate of the characters. It also left several unanswered questions, which I hope will become clear in the sequel. Show Less
LibraryThing member pocketmermaid
I devoured this futuristic dystopian young adult novel by debut author Marie Lu. I was lucky enough to snag an ARC of this book from Library Thing Early Reviewers. (The book will be out November 29, 2011.)
"Legend" is told in alternating perspectives between Day, the country's most wanted criminal,
Lu creates an eerily believable dystopian society. We've got a sinister dictatorship, an endless war, gritty scenes of slums and street fights, and nasty plagues wreaking havoc all across the known land. Because Day and June are on complete opposite sides - Day having been born in a poor sector, and June growing up with every possible advantage - we get two entirely different perspectives of the same world.
What I love reading about dystopian literature is getting to explore just how that particular got to be the way it is. Even if the novel doesn't answer all of my questions - which they usually don't - I still spend a lot of time thinking about them. And I wonder how easily our society could end up like theirs.
Even though there is no direct mention in "Legend," there are two distinct social classes: the poor and the wealthy. There is no middle class. Nothing exists in-between. You're either rich or you're suffering in a poor sector where the government treats you like garbage. This is quite scary to me if you look at how our own middle class in America is shrinking. I don't know if Lu created her Republic with the particular intention of making social commentary, but it has sufficiently creeped me out and got me thinking a lot about how powerless social class can make a person in regards to how their life is decided for them. This may seem crazy obvious to you. But I'm not just talking about in the case of people like Day, who was poor his entire life and is living on the streets when we first meet him in the first chapter. But it's also constricting for June. Even though she has had every need taken care of for her AND has her rare natural intelligence and abilities to rely on, she is just a victim of her society's control as anyone else.
Okay, tangent over.
I blew through the action-packed "Legend" pretty quickly. Lu's writing is vivid and crisp and she doesn't pull any cheap tricks that make the story feel weak or shifty. She doesn't ever tip her hand, and only reveals what is necessary WHEN it is necessary. There are no meandering pages of description or unnecessary dialogue. I also enjoyed her natural way of weaving in local slang without overdoing it. The world-building is so subtle and natural. Still, I hope to get an even deeper understanding in future installments, because there's plenty to explore in this world.
The ending felt a bit abrupt to me (and something that was important to me was ultimately shrugged off as if it never mattered), but all the larger loose ends are tied up enough for the story to be self-contained. I'm eager for the next book to see just how crazy this shiz can get.
The only thing that REALLY bothered me was that Day's sections of the novel were written in a different font and in a goldenrod color. This adds nothing to the story, as it is that way for no reason that I could discern. It only seems to be there to let me know: OH HEY, DAY IS TALKING NOW, PAY ATTENTION. I've read books with alternating viewpoints before. I get how this works, now let me read. The font issue only ended up making me feel as if I needed the publisher to hold my hand as I read the book. Plus it hurt my eyes, especially when things got really intense and I just wanted to read fast.
Nit-picking aside, this was an engaging and entertaining read that I'd recommend to fans of the young adult dystopian genre. Also, I'm going to keep my eyes on Marie Lu's writing career.
"Legend" is told in alternating perspectives between Day, the country's most wanted criminal,
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and June, a wealthy military prodigy. June makes it her personal mission to capture Day after he is wanted for the murder of her older brother. Lu creates an eerily believable dystopian society. We've got a sinister dictatorship, an endless war, gritty scenes of slums and street fights, and nasty plagues wreaking havoc all across the known land. Because Day and June are on complete opposite sides - Day having been born in a poor sector, and June growing up with every possible advantage - we get two entirely different perspectives of the same world.
What I love reading about dystopian literature is getting to explore just how that particular got to be the way it is. Even if the novel doesn't answer all of my questions - which they usually don't - I still spend a lot of time thinking about them. And I wonder how easily our society could end up like theirs.
Even though there is no direct mention in "Legend," there are two distinct social classes: the poor and the wealthy. There is no middle class. Nothing exists in-between. You're either rich or you're suffering in a poor sector where the government treats you like garbage. This is quite scary to me if you look at how our own middle class in America is shrinking. I don't know if Lu created her Republic with the particular intention of making social commentary, but it has sufficiently creeped me out and got me thinking a lot about how powerless social class can make a person in regards to how their life is decided for them. This may seem crazy obvious to you. But I'm not just talking about in the case of people like Day, who was poor his entire life and is living on the streets when we first meet him in the first chapter. But it's also constricting for June. Even though she has had every need taken care of for her AND has her rare natural intelligence and abilities to rely on, she is just a victim of her society's control as anyone else.
Okay, tangent over.
I blew through the action-packed "Legend" pretty quickly. Lu's writing is vivid and crisp and she doesn't pull any cheap tricks that make the story feel weak or shifty. She doesn't ever tip her hand, and only reveals what is necessary WHEN it is necessary. There are no meandering pages of description or unnecessary dialogue. I also enjoyed her natural way of weaving in local slang without overdoing it. The world-building is so subtle and natural. Still, I hope to get an even deeper understanding in future installments, because there's plenty to explore in this world.
The ending felt a bit abrupt to me (and something that was important to me was ultimately shrugged off as if it never mattered), but all the larger loose ends are tied up enough for the story to be self-contained. I'm eager for the next book to see just how crazy this shiz can get.
The only thing that REALLY bothered me was that Day's sections of the novel were written in a different font and in a goldenrod color. This adds nothing to the story, as it is that way for no reason that I could discern. It only seems to be there to let me know: OH HEY, DAY IS TALKING NOW, PAY ATTENTION. I've read books with alternating viewpoints before. I get how this works, now let me read. The font issue only ended up making me feel as if I needed the publisher to hold my hand as I read the book. Plus it hurt my eyes, especially when things got really intense and I just wanted to read fast.
Nit-picking aside, this was an engaging and entertaining read that I'd recommend to fans of the young adult dystopian genre. Also, I'm going to keep my eyes on Marie Lu's writing career.
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LibraryThing member TValeros
Legend by Marie Lu is AWESOME!! I really liked the flow that Marie Lu vividly illustrated through her well written story. I was surprised on how deeply engaged I was because I had my doubts with the simplicity of its cover, but within that cover there is nothing simple about it.
Rich in action,
Daniel "Day" Altan Wing took his trials when he was only 10 years old. Every kid in the Republic takes their trials at 10. It decides whether they will be placed in the higher rankings of society or be one among the back breaking laborers living in the slums. And Day was among those who failed. With poor results he was taken into the labor camps along with the other children who didn't receive high scores. The twist is, there isn't such a thing as the labor camps. And all those who went, never came back or seen again.
June is the prodigy of the Republic. She is the only one who scored a perfect 1500 on her trials. A bright future is ahead for her; and at such a young age (15 years) she's already a well decorated officer. Everything runs smoothly for June until Day comes along and kills her older brother, Metias. Left with no parents and now her brother, she begins her agenda of bringing down the Republic's elusive criminal, Day, and she's going to make sure he's going to get what he deserves.
Legend by Marie Lu alternates from Day's voice to June's, but you will never mistake who your reading. Along with each character having their own designated color text, Day's being gold text and June's being black, each of the two is a distinct character with two complete different voices. I am amazed on how fluid I read Legend. It doesn't skip a beat; when June stops her tale Day picks it right back up where she left off. Another favorite I will add to my collection. I am on the edge of my seat eager for Legend's sequel!!
I RECOMMEND!!
Rich in action,
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intrigue, and suspense, a dystopian novel that will keep you awake through all hours of the night. Legend beckons you and I can't help but to ask for more!Daniel "Day" Altan Wing took his trials when he was only 10 years old. Every kid in the Republic takes their trials at 10. It decides whether they will be placed in the higher rankings of society or be one among the back breaking laborers living in the slums. And Day was among those who failed. With poor results he was taken into the labor camps along with the other children who didn't receive high scores. The twist is, there isn't such a thing as the labor camps. And all those who went, never came back or seen again.
June is the prodigy of the Republic. She is the only one who scored a perfect 1500 on her trials. A bright future is ahead for her; and at such a young age (15 years) she's already a well decorated officer. Everything runs smoothly for June until Day comes along and kills her older brother, Metias. Left with no parents and now her brother, she begins her agenda of bringing down the Republic's elusive criminal, Day, and she's going to make sure he's going to get what he deserves.
Legend by Marie Lu alternates from Day's voice to June's, but you will never mistake who your reading. Along with each character having their own designated color text, Day's being gold text and June's being black, each of the two is a distinct character with two complete different voices. I am amazed on how fluid I read Legend. It doesn't skip a beat; when June stops her tale Day picks it right back up where she left off. Another favorite I will add to my collection. I am on the edge of my seat eager for Legend's sequel!!
I RECOMMEND!!
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LibraryThing member lettoreardente
It was hard for me to get through this book. I especially didn't care for June. The plot was interesting which is probably why I kept reading, but other than that I really couldn't get into the story. It wasn't horrible, but it wasn't great either.
LibraryThing member highvoltagegrrl
Poverty, war, plague, fighting, family, romance, friendship. Legend is a dystopian novel that has it all. This is not a pretty book disguised as a dystopian read, this has got some definite grittiness to it, just the way it should be. The story switches back and forth from the views of June and Day
This book has a lot of action which makes it very easy to read in a short amount of time. It just keeps going and going and going and no character is safe, you never know who is going to turn up good, bad, or dead. Yes, many people will compare it to the Hunger Games for the dystopian society, but Legend stands on its own and I think the more reluctant readers will gravitate towards this series for its non-stop and fast paced action. The romance is there too, it’s not overly heavy, which is perfect for the book as it is a fight to survive type of read. While politics are a major part of the book it isn’t complicated to follow what’s going on and it isn’t thrown in your face, it’s just providing reasoning for why the world is the way it is.
Some of the major problems that arise are seen to completion by the end of this book, but others are left open so that we have something to look forward to. It’s a big storyline piece that will continue on and I certainly can’t wait to grab the second book and find out the why’s, who’s, and what’s of it all.
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– who should be complete opposites due to the way they were raised, but are more alike than anyone realizes. The government might have an idea, but we aren’t sure who is behind it all.This book has a lot of action which makes it very easy to read in a short amount of time. It just keeps going and going and going and no character is safe, you never know who is going to turn up good, bad, or dead. Yes, many people will compare it to the Hunger Games for the dystopian society, but Legend stands on its own and I think the more reluctant readers will gravitate towards this series for its non-stop and fast paced action. The romance is there too, it’s not overly heavy, which is perfect for the book as it is a fight to survive type of read. While politics are a major part of the book it isn’t complicated to follow what’s going on and it isn’t thrown in your face, it’s just providing reasoning for why the world is the way it is.
Some of the major problems that arise are seen to completion by the end of this book, but others are left open so that we have something to look forward to. It’s a big storyline piece that will continue on and I certainly can’t wait to grab the second book and find out the why’s, who’s, and what’s of it all.
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LibraryThing member cay250
Fifteen-year-olds June and Day live completely different lives in the Republic located in western half of U.S. June is rich and brilliant, the only candidate ever to get a perfect score in the Trials, and is destined for a career in the military. Day, on the other hand, is a slum child who failed
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his own Trial. He's also the Republic's most wanted criminal. When tragedies strike both their families, the two teens are thrown into direct opposition. In alternating first-person narratives, Day and June experience coming-of-age adventures in the midst of spying, theft and daredevil combat. A quick read with standard post-apocalyptic setting—plagues, class warfare, evil soldiers—with an ending that leaves you hanging and waiting for the sequel Show Less
LibraryThing member LauraMoore
As soon as I heard the premise for Legend, I knew I had to have it. I immediately added it to my wishlist, and entered every contest I could to get my hands on a copy (honestly I think I entered close to 100 giveaways for this book, because I knew I couldn't wait for the release date) I finally won
This story alternates between two different POV's between Day, the republic criminal who is always in the center of devious and criminal situations, and June who is highly respected in the republic because of her older brother as well as her level of intellegence. When June's older brother is murdered and Day is being blamed both of their worlds turn upside down, But was Day really to blame or was he simply set up to cover a deeper darker secret?
Marie Lu created such a unique and genius setting for a Dystopian world. I loved it, It was everything I had hoped for and then some. I can't wait for the second installment! There was a mixture of drama, and a love that was reminiscant of Romeo and Juliet because of Day and June being from different sides of the tracks and were known enemies, it had a mix of everything a Dystopian Novel should be. Marie Lu blew me away with her Debut and she is going to be a huge name in YA novels, I'm just calling that now. If you like Dystopian novels then this book needs to be on the top of your wishlist!!
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a copy through a facebook giveaway, and devoured it as soon as it came in the mail. It was all I had hoped for and more!! This story alternates between two different POV's between Day, the republic criminal who is always in the center of devious and criminal situations, and June who is highly respected in the republic because of her older brother as well as her level of intellegence. When June's older brother is murdered and Day is being blamed both of their worlds turn upside down, But was Day really to blame or was he simply set up to cover a deeper darker secret?
Marie Lu created such a unique and genius setting for a Dystopian world. I loved it, It was everything I had hoped for and then some. I can't wait for the second installment! There was a mixture of drama, and a love that was reminiscant of Romeo and Juliet because of Day and June being from different sides of the tracks and were known enemies, it had a mix of everything a Dystopian Novel should be. Marie Lu blew me away with her Debut and she is going to be a huge name in YA novels, I'm just calling that now. If you like Dystopian novels then this book needs to be on the top of your wishlist!!
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LibraryThing member LauraLulu
I'm a sucker for dystopian. Just ask anyone. There's just something about a broken world--and the characters who occupy it--that intrigues me.
This one takes place in the far future in the United States. We don't know how far in the future, but far enough for no one to have ever seen a quarter
The story is told in alternating voices: June is the girl from the right side of the tracks, being groomed to be one of the Republic's shining military stars. Day is the boy from the wrong side, and the Republic's most wanted criminal.
They are both great characters, both smart, resourceful and loyal. And the supporting cast was wonderful, too. There is also lots of action, and the story is fast-paced, if a bit predictable.
My only complaint is the lack of explanation of the world and how the US got this way, but hey, it's the first book in a series--what should I expect?
This one takes place in the far future in the United States. We don't know how far in the future, but far enough for no one to have ever seen a quarter
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before. The country is split in two--the Colonies east of the Rockies (give or take), and the Republic to the west. The Republic is where our story takes place, and it's a crazy place. Basically a military dictatorship, with a major class divide, and plagues killing off the poor folk, who are the only ones not given vaccines.The story is told in alternating voices: June is the girl from the right side of the tracks, being groomed to be one of the Republic's shining military stars. Day is the boy from the wrong side, and the Republic's most wanted criminal.
They are both great characters, both smart, resourceful and loyal. And the supporting cast was wonderful, too. There is also lots of action, and the story is fast-paced, if a bit predictable.
My only complaint is the lack of explanation of the world and how the US got this way, but hey, it's the first book in a series--what should I expect?
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LibraryThing member STACYatUFI
I am on a bit of a Dystopian kick and LEGEND definitely kept me wanting to read more. There was a lot of action, adventure and entertainment. The story is told from 2 different points of view. June is 15 year old (although she seems way older to me, I had a bit of a hard time picturing her as 15)
I enjoyed both characters POV's they were both well spoken. Like many of the Dystopian's I have read the world building is fantastic. I cant even imagine being as creative as all these fabulous authors are as they write the worlds their books take part in. I am always amazed at how easy it is to picture the places that are described and I loved every minute of the futuristic Los Angeles that June and Day live in. The storyline was filled with great action scenes, romance, kick butt characters and fascinating adventures. If you love dystopian you wont be disappointed in adding LEGEND to your bookshelf. It stinks to have to wait for book 2 to come out.
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She is the golden child. The only one in history to get a perfect score on the test everyone takes to determine their future. She is strong, goal oriented, And has a plan for her future (or so she thinks). Day is the is the most wanted criminal. He's just as smart, and focused as June but he failed the test and was sent off to die. Instead he escaped and starting raising heck against the republic. He is loyal, smart, honorable and nothing like June thought he would be like.I enjoyed both characters POV's they were both well spoken. Like many of the Dystopian's I have read the world building is fantastic. I cant even imagine being as creative as all these fabulous authors are as they write the worlds their books take part in. I am always amazed at how easy it is to picture the places that are described and I loved every minute of the futuristic Los Angeles that June and Day live in. The storyline was filled with great action scenes, romance, kick butt characters and fascinating adventures. If you love dystopian you wont be disappointed in adding LEGEND to your bookshelf. It stinks to have to wait for book 2 to come out.
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LibraryThing member hoganedix
Have you been dying for another great read like The Hunger Games? I know I have and am so happy to share that Legend is it! You will be immediately drawn into this story that is told in alternating chapters by two very different teens. This is a dystopian novel set in Los Angeles well into the
This book is due to hit libraries and stores November 29th - get on the wait list now! You will love this science fiction mystery and will be so grateful that it is a series!
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future. Day is a boy from a poor neighborhood who has become a local hero as a rebel against the government. June is a brilliant rich girl, groomed for the military where the best and the brightest work. June believes that Day has killed her brother and is now out to track down and arrest him. Day is desperate to stay out of prison in order to find a vaccine to save his family from a plague. That these two totally different teens become friends and allies in an absolutely believable way is based on the talented writing of the author. And much like The Hunger Games, there is a sweet taste of romance amidst violence and corruption.This book is due to hit libraries and stores November 29th - get on the wait list now! You will love this science fiction mystery and will be so grateful that it is a series!
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LibraryThing member usagijihen
All of the hype is definitely well-deserved. This is a brilliant debut by Lu, and it's definitely a must-read of 2011 (on my best of 2011 list)! All of the characters are well constructed, the arcs are well-rounded, and it leaves nothing to chance. CBS did well to option this for a film, because
I love how Lu is unafraid to broach the topic of a possible post-America (America as we know it now as a democracy, transitioning to an autocracy/dictatorship) along with the usual YA tropes of romance, adventure, and intrigue. Very few YA authors have done this, the most memorable of which is "The Hunger Games". I won't do that comparison, but it's worth mentioning nonetheless. The idea of a post-America as we know it now is rightfully scary as things seem to be going that way politically, and Lu just dives right in. The military state, the new districts of Los Angeles - all of it makes sense. There's not one bit of it that seems too fantastic, and if anything, is almost surrealistic in its feasibility.
The entire book as it is is well-rounded with very full characters, a great main arc and sub arcs of revenge and romance, as well as broaching more quietly questions about social justice (Day-as-Robin Hood) in a military state. If you're in a military state and the Government is your father, if you're poor and being neglected, does that make the Government a bad father? Or are you a bad child for going hungry and catching various plagues? This is one of the main questions that is brought up in the book and while it doesn't hit you over the head repeatedly and loudly throughout the story, it still gives you a bitter aftertaste to linger on long after you've finished that last page. And it also makes you wonder about our government programs today - those on welfare, is it their fault for not being able to get jobs, or is it the government's for failing them with the economy? None of this is said out loud, but the speculation is there nonetheless, asking the YA reader to think about something deeper than just the romance.
And all of this is on June's shoulders as she battles with the idea that the government is possibly a Bad Dad -- it betrays everything she's ever been taught by the State, it dashes her hopes at a solid career, and when the plague part comes into play, it finally convinces her that maybe the military isn't such a good place for her after all, and that Day just might be right in his fight for social justice. There is tension on every page, stretching both June/Day and the reader taut with it. Who do I trust? What do I really know? Who am I, really? And as Americans, what have we become? Who did we used to be? All of these questions are asked right below the surface and will definitely make you want to ponder on them afterward.
So do yourself a solid and step away from the regular boy-meets-girl romance, kids, and pick this one up instead. It has everything for every reader, I can promise you that.
(posted to goodreads, librarything, shelfari, and witchoftheatregoing.wordpress.com)
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it's a very cinematic read - Lu has a way with sensory language that's so visceral it's like being right next to June and Day, watching everything happen right in front of you. If there's one YA dystopian book to read this year, it has to be "Legend".I love how Lu is unafraid to broach the topic of a possible post-America (America as we know it now as a democracy, transitioning to an autocracy/dictatorship) along with the usual YA tropes of romance, adventure, and intrigue. Very few YA authors have done this, the most memorable of which is "The Hunger Games". I won't do that comparison, but it's worth mentioning nonetheless. The idea of a post-America as we know it now is rightfully scary as things seem to be going that way politically, and Lu just dives right in. The military state, the new districts of Los Angeles - all of it makes sense. There's not one bit of it that seems too fantastic, and if anything, is almost surrealistic in its feasibility.
The entire book as it is is well-rounded with very full characters, a great main arc and sub arcs of revenge and romance, as well as broaching more quietly questions about social justice (Day-as-Robin Hood) in a military state. If you're in a military state and the Government is your father, if you're poor and being neglected, does that make the Government a bad father? Or are you a bad child for going hungry and catching various plagues? This is one of the main questions that is brought up in the book and while it doesn't hit you over the head repeatedly and loudly throughout the story, it still gives you a bitter aftertaste to linger on long after you've finished that last page. And it also makes you wonder about our government programs today - those on welfare, is it their fault for not being able to get jobs, or is it the government's for failing them with the economy? None of this is said out loud, but the speculation is there nonetheless, asking the YA reader to think about something deeper than just the romance.
And all of this is on June's shoulders as she battles with the idea that the government is possibly a Bad Dad -- it betrays everything she's ever been taught by the State, it dashes her hopes at a solid career, and when the plague part comes into play, it finally convinces her that maybe the military isn't such a good place for her after all, and that Day just might be right in his fight for social justice. There is tension on every page, stretching both June/Day and the reader taut with it. Who do I trust? What do I really know? Who am I, really? And as Americans, what have we become? Who did we used to be? All of these questions are asked right below the surface and will definitely make you want to ponder on them afterward.
So do yourself a solid and step away from the regular boy-meets-girl romance, kids, and pick this one up instead. It has everything for every reader, I can promise you that.
(posted to goodreads, librarything, shelfari, and witchoftheatregoing.wordpress.com)
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LibraryThing member OhForTheLoveOfBooks
…I’m warning y’all now that I’m about to go all Gollum on y’all….my prreeeccccioouss….*cough cough*. Sorry, but it’s just that freaking good.
This book was absolutely stunning. I honestly don’t even know how to write this review! This book was full of heart-pumping, non-stop
If anyone has seen the show Bones, then y’all will know what I’m talking about when I say that Bones is who June reminds me of. She a child prodigy. She is intuitive, calculative, blunt, factual and observant just like Bones. However, she could also be compared to Sherlock Holmes. She notices everything. Details about everything are constantly going through her mind. Though, not only is she amazingly intelligent, she can also kick your butt. Literally. I absolutely love her. She might be one of my favorite female characters ever. As Day said, she is “coolly logical and fiercely defiant” and I absolutely love her for it.
And Day….If June won’t take him, I will! Bold, brash, and daring, yet so amazingly loyal and noble and honest. He’s been through so much pain but still puts his family first. Extremely intelligent, agile, and brave, I absolutely fell in love with him. I think June described him best when she said he was “a beautiful mystery”. So true. Seriously, he is a definitely a book boyfriend!
The plot was full of non-stop action that read like a movie-script. Honestly, this book would make an amazing movie. I was constantly on the edge of my seat and I did not want to put it down. This book was so heartbreakingly beautiful. Action, mystery, murder...what more could you want? This is such an emotional thrill-ride! Even though this had the generalized dystopia of a corrupt society, it was still unique in its content. I just can’t stop gushing about it!
I absolutely loved the writing. Both Day and June's POV's seamlessly blended together, allowing the reader to truly understand these characters and their emotions.
My review does not do this book justice. Not even in the slightest. That is how amazing this book is! It is a book full of heart-pumping action, but also has a heartbreakingly beautiful side to it. I almost didn’t want to finish it because I know I have to wait so long for the next book in the series! If I could give this book more stars, I definitely would. Please, please read this book. Marie Lu did an amazing job on her debut novel and the next book in the series can’t come fast enough. Truth truly will become Legend.
This book was absolutely stunning. I honestly don’t even know how to write this review! This book was full of heart-pumping, non-stop
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action! From the very first chapters, I fell in love with these absolutely amazing characters. And Day’s last chapter!? So heartbreaking! If anyone has seen the show Bones, then y’all will know what I’m talking about when I say that Bones is who June reminds me of. She a child prodigy. She is intuitive, calculative, blunt, factual and observant just like Bones. However, she could also be compared to Sherlock Holmes. She notices everything. Details about everything are constantly going through her mind. Though, not only is she amazingly intelligent, she can also kick your butt. Literally. I absolutely love her. She might be one of my favorite female characters ever. As Day said, she is “coolly logical and fiercely defiant” and I absolutely love her for it.
And Day….If June won’t take him, I will! Bold, brash, and daring, yet so amazingly loyal and noble and honest. He’s been through so much pain but still puts his family first. Extremely intelligent, agile, and brave, I absolutely fell in love with him. I think June described him best when she said he was “a beautiful mystery”. So true. Seriously, he is a definitely a book boyfriend!
The plot was full of non-stop action that read like a movie-script. Honestly, this book would make an amazing movie. I was constantly on the edge of my seat and I did not want to put it down. This book was so heartbreakingly beautiful. Action, mystery, murder...what more could you want? This is such an emotional thrill-ride! Even though this had the generalized dystopia of a corrupt society, it was still unique in its content. I just can’t stop gushing about it!
I absolutely loved the writing. Both Day and June's POV's seamlessly blended together, allowing the reader to truly understand these characters and their emotions.
My review does not do this book justice. Not even in the slightest. That is how amazing this book is! It is a book full of heart-pumping action, but also has a heartbreakingly beautiful side to it. I almost didn’t want to finish it because I know I have to wait so long for the next book in the series! If I could give this book more stars, I definitely would. Please, please read this book. Marie Lu did an amazing job on her debut novel and the next book in the series can’t come fast enough. Truth truly will become Legend.
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LibraryThing member Krissy724
I did not have high expectations for Legend. It looked good, but I didn't think it was going to be as awesome and amazing as it was! I loved everything about it. I wanted to read it again as soon as I finished it!
Legend is told through two different POV-June and Day. June's character took me a
I wonder if the second book in the series is going to be about overthrowing the government, but I liked that this one wasn't about that. Legend was a perfect introduction to the world and the characters. The place where June and Day live is a very scary place.
Dystopian is not my favorite genre, mainly because it scares me, but I love the world that Marie Lu created. I also love the simplicity of the cover and I think that it is a cover, I think it worked really well with the story.
Legend is a debut that is not to be missed! It was everything that I could want in a story. I am very much looking forward to the second one!
Legend is told through two different POV-June and Day. June's character took me a
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little while to get used too. She 100% believes in her Republic. She thinks everything they do is really for the people. She is a soldier who never knew what it was like to be poor. She is the complete opposite of Day. Day is the most wanted man in the Republic. He is also the most feared. But really, he isn't bad at all. He hates the government and wants to piss them off. He wants to provide for his family, who thinks he is dead, and help other poor people like his family. I loved Day from the very first page. There was such a goodness about him that was very commendable with everything he has been through. I wonder if the second book in the series is going to be about overthrowing the government, but I liked that this one wasn't about that. Legend was a perfect introduction to the world and the characters. The place where June and Day live is a very scary place.
Dystopian is not my favorite genre, mainly because it scares me, but I love the world that Marie Lu created. I also love the simplicity of the cover and I think that it is a cover, I think it worked really well with the story.
Legend is a debut that is not to be missed! It was everything that I could want in a story. I am very much looking forward to the second one!
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LibraryThing member Decroote
Legend tells the story of two completely opposite teens connected by a peculiar event. June is a rich, intelligent, and beautiful girl destined to be a military captain. Day is a poor, kind, and attractive boy who happens to be the country's most wanted criminal. Day has committed many crimes, and
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is hated by those who do not know him personally. Those who are close to him know that his crimes involve stealing food and money to feed his family. Day is accused of murdering June's brother. Determined to avenge her brother's death, June sets out on a mission to find Day. The mission seems simple enough, but as June continues the hunt she reveals secrets about her own past, Day's past, and the truths of the government she lives under. Legend is a fast paced novel, loaded with action and dialogue. It is a quick read that will leave you wanting a sequel! Show Less
LibraryThing member jmaloney17
This post-apocalyptic view of the future of the United States was good. Not great, but interesting. The basics of the story were good (i.e. militaristic state, place, compelling characters). However, it just needed some more "oomph." The characters were not quite developed enough, and there was no
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real reason for one of the bad guys to be as bad as he was. It also kind of feels like a first half of a book, eventhough this is a series. I will probably read the next to see if the author improves on her character development. Show Less
LibraryThing member TheBookLife
I fear my thoughts on this book are going to be a little unpopular, because people seem to love it so much. It's not a bad book and I didn't hate it, but the story and I never really clicked. It has a very interesting premise, which is what drew me to the book in the first place. Unfortunately,
The book was full of action and that's probably the reason I kept reading. The main storyline was well written and certainly made me feel emotions of hate towards the bad guys. At first I suspected that Metias wasn't really dead, and that it was just some elaborate plot created by the military to get June to do their bidding. And that would have been just fine with me, but what was really going on ended up being even crazier. Like I said, this part of the story is what kept me reading. Usually it ends up being the characters that save a book for me and not the plotline, but I'm still not sure if I will continue on with the series. Maybe once all the book have been released. It always makes me sad when I didn't really get along with a book, but just because this one wasn't for me, doesn't mean it isn't for everybody else :0)
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dystopian novels are hit and miss with me. The story is told alternating between Day, public enemy number one, and June, military prodigy. I actually really liked that the female character was the kick butt, military expert. In a lot of books, if there are both male and female main characters, the male character is the "tougher" one. So it was a nice change of pace that the female character was the super badass. Therein lies the problem, because that was really the only thing I liked about June. I actually liked Day. I appreciated the lengths he was willing to go to for his family. I guess mostly I wasn't really feeling the relationship that formed between the two of them. With everything else going on, it wasn't developed enough for me. I suppose there will probably be more of that in the next book. The book was full of action and that's probably the reason I kept reading. The main storyline was well written and certainly made me feel emotions of hate towards the bad guys. At first I suspected that Metias wasn't really dead, and that it was just some elaborate plot created by the military to get June to do their bidding. And that would have been just fine with me, but what was really going on ended up being even crazier. Like I said, this part of the story is what kept me reading. Usually it ends up being the characters that save a book for me and not the plotline, but I'm still not sure if I will continue on with the series. Maybe once all the book have been released. It always makes me sad when I didn't really get along with a book, but just because this one wasn't for me, doesn't mean it isn't for everybody else :0)
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LibraryThing member BurgandyIce
Yes!!
This book is TOTALLY AWESOME!!
Have you ever seen that movie from 1998, Out of Sight, with Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney?! This book reminded me of what I wished that movie had been.
There’s the smokin’ hot girl who kicks butt for a living and she’s the best at it.
Then there’s the
The girl hunts down the guy and they have this connection where they see each other and almost see themselves in a mirror, each recognizing that if they had switched places, they would be where the other is. *sigh* Exactly.
I love, love, LOVE this!!! I love the way she is sooooo good and he is sooooo good and neither of them need to have a crack in their armor to be together!! YES!!!
I love the sheer impossibility of it!! Lu dares each of them to be true to themselves and still overcome the huge obstacles in their way – she dares them!! And then lets them carry it out, exactly what they would do, exactly how they would do it.
June is hard, unbendable, almost icy cold intimidating. I can see why some people have connected with her (reading other reviews that didn't rave as much as mine!) But I enjoyed her. There was background for every action she took and youth to be trusting of her superiors and friends. Her character made sense to me, although she might have some emotional issues to deal with later!! :-)
Day has more heart and soul than the entire Republic combined. He is kind, self-sacrificing, devoted to his family, braving old injuries... and still accomplishes the impossible repeatedly. He's gotta be one of the All-Time Best Rebels.
The city of Los Angeles was great, so run down in some sections, so flashy rich in others. The Republic vs. the Colonies is downright creepy. There’s a description of the rebel flag with 13 red stripes and 50 white dots that totally hit me sideways… like seeing the American flag through a stranger’s eyes.
I loved the way I did not know what was going to happen. I had wishes and hopes, but I wasn’t sure. I pieced the puzzle pieces together only right before June did, which brought on that wonderful TaDa!! as I connected all the hints with her. I loved the way I was left in the dark so long, loved the puzzle.
But mostly I love the connectedness between June and Day. They fit together so well, very mutually respectful of each other. This is a book I will want to reread just to climb the buildings so skillfully!!
I pulled these pictures of Marie Lu's website, where she has games, design your own character - all around Legend, which sounds like it was some time in the making!!
My Rating: 5 - Love it!!
This book is TOTALLY AWESOME!!
Have you ever seen that movie from 1998, Out of Sight, with Jennifer Lopez and George Clooney?! This book reminded me of what I wished that movie had been.
There’s the smokin’ hot girl who kicks butt for a living and she’s the best at it.
Then there’s the
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rebel guy, also smokin’ hot, so good at being bad, he’s become a legend.The girl hunts down the guy and they have this connection where they see each other and almost see themselves in a mirror, each recognizing that if they had switched places, they would be where the other is. *sigh* Exactly.
I love, love, LOVE this!!! I love the way she is sooooo good and he is sooooo good and neither of them need to have a crack in their armor to be together!! YES!!!
I love the sheer impossibility of it!! Lu dares each of them to be true to themselves and still overcome the huge obstacles in their way – she dares them!! And then lets them carry it out, exactly what they would do, exactly how they would do it.
June is hard, unbendable, almost icy cold intimidating. I can see why some people have connected with her (reading other reviews that didn't rave as much as mine!) But I enjoyed her. There was background for every action she took and youth to be trusting of her superiors and friends. Her character made sense to me, although she might have some emotional issues to deal with later!! :-)
Day has more heart and soul than the entire Republic combined. He is kind, self-sacrificing, devoted to his family, braving old injuries... and still accomplishes the impossible repeatedly. He's gotta be one of the All-Time Best Rebels.
The city of Los Angeles was great, so run down in some sections, so flashy rich in others. The Republic vs. the Colonies is downright creepy. There’s a description of the rebel flag with 13 red stripes and 50 white dots that totally hit me sideways… like seeing the American flag through a stranger’s eyes.
I loved the way I did not know what was going to happen. I had wishes and hopes, but I wasn’t sure. I pieced the puzzle pieces together only right before June did, which brought on that wonderful TaDa!! as I connected all the hints with her. I loved the way I was left in the dark so long, loved the puzzle.
But mostly I love the connectedness between June and Day. They fit together so well, very mutually respectful of each other. This is a book I will want to reread just to climb the buildings so skillfully!!
I pulled these pictures of Marie Lu's website, where she has games, design your own character - all around Legend, which sounds like it was some time in the making!!
My Rating: 5 - Love it!!
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Awards
Nebraska Golden Sower Award (Nominee — 2014)
Soaring Eagle Book Award (First runner-up — 2014)
Young Hoosier Book Award (Nominee — Middle Grade — 2014)
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award (Nominee — 2015)
Utah Beehive Book Award (Nominee — Young Adult — 2014)
Kentucky Bluegrass Award (Nominee — Grades 6-8 — 2013)
Pacific Northwest Library Association Young Reader's Choice Award (Nominee — Intermediate — 2014)
Nutmeg Book Award (Nominee — High School — 2014)
Iowa Teen Award (Nominee — 2014)
Sunshine State Young Reader's Award (Winner — Grades 6-8 — 2014)
Garden State Teen Book Award (Winner — Grades 6-8 — 2014)
Nevada Young Readers' Award (Nominee — Young Adult — 2014)
Lincoln Award: Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award (Nominee — 2014)
South Dakota Teen Choice Book Awards (Honor — 2014)
Grand Canyon Reader Award (Nominee — 2014)
Colorado Blue Spruce Award (Nominee — 2015)
California Young Reader Medal (Nominee — 2015)
Truman Readers Award (Nominee — 2014)
NCSLMA Battle of the Books (Middle School — 2020)
Golden Archer Award (Nominee — 2014)
Milwaukee County Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2013)
Isinglass Teen Read Award (Nominee — 2013)
Rhode Island Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2013)
Sakura Medal (Middle School — 2013)
Best Fiction for Young Adults (Selection — 2012)
CCBC Choices (2012)
Read Aloud Indiana Book Award (High School — 2013-2015)
Chicago Public Library Best of the Best: Teens (Fiction — 2011)
Texas Lone Star Reading List (2013)
Original publication date
2011-11-29