Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Pages
344
Description
Science Fiction. Young Adult Fiction. HTML: It's graduation day for sixteen-year-old Malencia Vale, and the entire Five Lakes Colony (the former Great Lakes) is celebrating. All Cia can think about�hope for�is whether she'll be chosen for The Testing, a United Commonwealth program that selects the best and brightest new graduates to become possible leaders of the slowly revitalizing post-war civilization. When Cia is chosen, her father finally tells her about his own nightmarish half-memories of The Testing. Armed with his dire warnings ("Cia, trust no one"), she bravely heads off to Tosu City, far away from friends and family, perhaps forever. Danger, romance�and sheer terror�await..
Series
Collection
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2013-06-04
Physical description
344 p.; 8.5 inches
ISBN
9780547959108
Similar in this library
Lexile
830L
User reviews
LibraryThing member InfoQuest
There was a NetGalley special on this one, but I couldn't find anywhere to put the review, so here will have to do.
The scenario is fairly straightforward: Malencia ("Cia") Vale is chosen to take part in the titular Testing: the entrance exams to the University for future leaders of the
If this sounds reminiscent of a slew of other YA post-apocalyptic dystopias--well, you're absolutely right. If you've read any number of those (heck, if you've even just heard of The Hunger Games), you know where this is headed. I won't say this one's totally derivative or entirely lacking entertainment value, but it's not the opposite of either. The main characters are not ciphers or placeholders, but they're hardly well-rounded or particularly unique. I'm not much into picking apart the details of plot and motivation, but even I could easily see some gaping holes (sometimes patched with hints of future intrigue) and leaps in logic. Having read--and thoroughly enjoyed-- similar but more engaging novels and series, I won't feel deprived if I never get around to the rest of this trilogy.
The scenario is fairly straightforward: Malencia ("Cia") Vale is chosen to take part in the titular Testing: the entrance exams to the University for future leaders of the
Show More
post-apocalyptic United Commonwealth. Her father, an alumnus, warns her not to trust anyone and says the Testing is more dangerous than she expects, though he doesn't remember the specifics due to a memory wipe. Though on her guard, Cia forges a romantic partnership with Tomas, a fellow candidate from her colony, and both of them attempt to pass/survive the tests.If this sounds reminiscent of a slew of other YA post-apocalyptic dystopias--well, you're absolutely right. If you've read any number of those (heck, if you've even just heard of The Hunger Games), you know where this is headed. I won't say this one's totally derivative or entirely lacking entertainment value, but it's not the opposite of either. The main characters are not ciphers or placeholders, but they're hardly well-rounded or particularly unique. I'm not much into picking apart the details of plot and motivation, but even I could easily see some gaping holes (sometimes patched with hints of future intrigue) and leaps in logic. Having read--and thoroughly enjoyed-- similar but more engaging novels and series, I won't feel deprived if I never get around to the rest of this trilogy.
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LibraryThing member The_Hibernator
Cia wishes more than anything that she will be chosen for the testing procedure - leading to a university education. But the testing procedure turns out to be more than she'd bargained for. The other kids are literally cut-throat competitors, and the testing officials are cruel and calculating.
This book was a fantastic addition to the popular young adult dystopia genre. It took me a little while to get in to the story because there was little to distinguish it from all the other YA dystopias I've read lately, but after about 50 pages I was really sucked in and wanted to know where Charbaonneau was taking the story. I had an inkling what might happen in the end - sort of a "wow, I hope it goes in this direction, because that would make the next two books really interesting." And it DID go in that direction. So, the ending wasn't unpredictable, but it was unique, and I was in suspense for the entire book which way it would go. I hope she really works that aspect in the second and third books. To me, that's the aspect that will make this trilogy stand out from the crowd. Another thing I liked is that although there's potential for a love triangle, that aspect wasn't focused on. As I'm really tired of the triangle, the lack thereof was very refreshing. I hope the trilogy stays that way. The violence might be a bit off-putting to some young readers, but I'd say it's about the same as The Hunger Games - maybe a little less.
Overall, a fun quick read. I hope this trilogy is popular.
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Will Cia be able to hang on to the person she is and still pass the test? Does she even want to pass the test anymore? What dire consequences really do follow failure?This book was a fantastic addition to the popular young adult dystopia genre. It took me a little while to get in to the story because there was little to distinguish it from all the other YA dystopias I've read lately, but after about 50 pages I was really sucked in and wanted to know where Charbaonneau was taking the story. I had an inkling what might happen in the end - sort of a "wow, I hope it goes in this direction, because that would make the next two books really interesting." And it DID go in that direction. So, the ending wasn't unpredictable, but it was unique, and I was in suspense for the entire book which way it would go. I hope she really works that aspect in the second and third books. To me, that's the aspect that will make this trilogy stand out from the crowd. Another thing I liked is that although there's potential for a love triangle, that aspect wasn't focused on. As I'm really tired of the triangle, the lack thereof was very refreshing. I hope the trilogy stays that way. The violence might be a bit off-putting to some young readers, but I'd say it's about the same as The Hunger Games - maybe a little less.
Overall, a fun quick read. I hope this trilogy is popular.
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LibraryThing member LibStaff2
Great new YA dystopia novel! Okay, yes, this book is similar to "The Hunger Games." But considering all the dystopian society works of late, why not be comparable to probably the best of its genre? The characters are interesting and the themes are thought-provoking. I do appreciate that the MC's
Net Galley Feedback
[book:The Testing|13326831]
[author:Joelle Charbonneau|4027380]
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love interest is not perfect, and the author approaches the end of the book (which obviously will have a sequel) without sacrificing the flow of the writing and making sure it doesn't feel forced. The settings are more city-based/urban than many novels of this market. What makes this book worth reading is simply that, even though it follows the YA dystopia formula, the characters and storyline are as original as any reader could ask. Recommended for fans of all YA dystopias, especially "The Hunger Games," "Divergent," and "Partials."Net Galley Feedback
[book:The Testing|13326831]
[author:Joelle Charbonneau|4027380]
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LibraryThing member Brainannex
A natural fit for Hunger Games fans. The horror is gruesome and not for the faint of heart. Of course it's a trilogy. Happily, HMH is smart and releasing every six months.
LibraryThing member lexiechan
WHAT happened next?! :o
This book is like a mixture of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and The Maze Runner by James Dashner. The Hunger Games because there is TESTING in this book, see the title? LOL. Well, THG basically got testing too. But unlike THG, I get why they have Hunger Games. In The
So sure, they also do the Testing to select the future leader for the United Commonwealth but still, it's just a bit weird (?) that they do it like that. If someone could explain it to me well, please do comment. >.
In any case, the world building is great. I quite like it. I find the other parts, gross like it should be, I felt connected whenever Cia do something for herself or Tomas when they are on the fourth part of the test. The way it was written is good too. It compels me to read it (I know! It took me a long time to read it because I am easily distracted by some things. >_
Oh yeah, I did mention that it also resemble The Maze Runner, well just because of the reason WHY they have that. Why there's testing, why the people in TMR were also evaluated and they use reasoning, I mean there's an ulterior motive for the better good of the country, or so the antagonists tells us. That it would help us in the long run that's why we do the tests.
Overall, I quite like it, although the ending leaves me a bit hanging and I already wanted to know what would happen after discovering the Transit Communicator's record. >.
P.S. The romance is OKAY. Not really the focus of the story I believe. But I think it's just there just because. *shrugs* Either way, I'm fine with it.
This book is like a mixture of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins and The Maze Runner by James Dashner. The Hunger Games because there is TESTING in this book, see the title? LOL. Well, THG basically got testing too. But unlike THG, I get why they have Hunger Games. In The
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Testing, I don't understand why they have the testing. Is it because the resources are scarce? I mean if they are trying to rebuild their country, Colony in fact, aren't they going to want all the people they could get so they could help the colony regrow to what it's state before the War?So sure, they also do the Testing to select the future leader for the United Commonwealth but still, it's just a bit weird (?) that they do it like that. If someone could explain it to me well, please do comment. >.
In any case, the world building is great. I quite like it. I find the other parts, gross like it should be, I felt connected whenever Cia do something for herself or Tomas when they are on the fourth part of the test. The way it was written is good too. It compels me to read it (I know! It took me a long time to read it because I am easily distracted by some things. >_
Oh yeah, I did mention that it also resemble The Maze Runner, well just because of the reason WHY they have that. Why there's testing, why the people in TMR were also evaluated and they use reasoning, I mean there's an ulterior motive for the better good of the country, or so the antagonists tells us. That it would help us in the long run that's why we do the tests.
Overall, I quite like it, although the ending leaves me a bit hanging and I already wanted to know what would happen after discovering the Transit Communicator's record. >.
P.S. The romance is OKAY. Not really the focus of the story I believe. But I think it's just there just because. *shrugs* Either way, I'm fine with it.
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LibraryThing member VPbookseller
I hate the reference to other book popular books are compared even if there is comparison. However, people that liked "The Hunger Games" are going to love this book. I can't wait for the next installment. It is suspenseful and action packed from beginning to end.
LibraryThing member thehidingspot
I keep hearing people say that they're becoming burnt out on the dystopian genre... Well, let me tell you, Joelle Charbonneau's The Testing might just rekindle your love of the genre.
The Testing has been pitched as a must read for Hunger Games fans and does feel very similar... even the cover
The novel follows Cia, a mechanically gifted girl who has been chosen to participate in The Testing, which is a means of determining which individuals from various parts of the United Commonwealth will be able to continue their education at university and eventually become an important leader. Only a very small number of individuals are selected to compete in The Testing and most individuals know they will never be chosen, even if they dream of the honor. Cia hopes to be selected, like her father once was, but knows her chances are slim. When she learns that she, and three others from her district have earned a spot in the competition, she's amazed and incredibly proud - and is confused as to why her parents seem less than excited. Before she leaves for the capital, her father takes her aside and shares one of his deepest fears: that the testing is not the dream that it seems. He reveals to her that, while participants minds are wiped after they've completed the testing, he's been left with terrifying nightmares that he fears may be lingering memories rather than products of an overactive imagination. With this knowledge now lodged in her mind, Cia leaves for The Testing, anxious and guarded. She soon learns that her father was correct to fear The Testing and that she'll need to use everything in her to survive.
There is a romantic plot line within The Testing and, while it does contribute to the story, especially when considering the complications a romance can cause when an individual is unsure who can be trusted, it isn't the main focus of the novel. That is to say, this is not a love story, though it does contain one. In this way, it is much like The Hunger Games.
Some may wonder how like Cia is to THG's Katniss. While both heroines are strong and capable of taking care of themselves, Cia, in my opinion, is definitely more motivated by emotion than Katniss and is more naturally trusting and sympathetic. It always seemed to me that Katniss wasn't above manipulating or using others for her own gain when she knew they were emotionally attached to her (for example, Peeta); Cia, on the other hand, is more likely to be the one manipulated, not because she's weak, but because she feels deeply for others. There was never any point where I felt she was weak or unintelligent, though she does have weaknesses.
For the most part, The Testing had really great pacing and twists. Although, it did take me perhaps 50 pages or so to be completely hooked. It is around this point that Cia has reached the capital and has begun the testing... and then all hell breaks loose!
Whether you're a Hunger Games fan, a dystopian junkie, or just looking for a great, action packed read, The Testing is for you. Do not miss this book!
The Testing has been pitched as a must read for Hunger Games fans and does feel very similar... even the cover
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shares the same simplicity and a similar focal concept sure to catch the eye of HG fans. But I assure you, The Testing is not The Hunger Games. Charbonneau introduces readers to an entirely new dystopian society that, at least initially, feels quite safe, but turns out to have a much darker, sinister side than our heroine ever imagined. The novel follows Cia, a mechanically gifted girl who has been chosen to participate in The Testing, which is a means of determining which individuals from various parts of the United Commonwealth will be able to continue their education at university and eventually become an important leader. Only a very small number of individuals are selected to compete in The Testing and most individuals know they will never be chosen, even if they dream of the honor. Cia hopes to be selected, like her father once was, but knows her chances are slim. When she learns that she, and three others from her district have earned a spot in the competition, she's amazed and incredibly proud - and is confused as to why her parents seem less than excited. Before she leaves for the capital, her father takes her aside and shares one of his deepest fears: that the testing is not the dream that it seems. He reveals to her that, while participants minds are wiped after they've completed the testing, he's been left with terrifying nightmares that he fears may be lingering memories rather than products of an overactive imagination. With this knowledge now lodged in her mind, Cia leaves for The Testing, anxious and guarded. She soon learns that her father was correct to fear The Testing and that she'll need to use everything in her to survive.
There is a romantic plot line within The Testing and, while it does contribute to the story, especially when considering the complications a romance can cause when an individual is unsure who can be trusted, it isn't the main focus of the novel. That is to say, this is not a love story, though it does contain one. In this way, it is much like The Hunger Games.
Some may wonder how like Cia is to THG's Katniss. While both heroines are strong and capable of taking care of themselves, Cia, in my opinion, is definitely more motivated by emotion than Katniss and is more naturally trusting and sympathetic. It always seemed to me that Katniss wasn't above manipulating or using others for her own gain when she knew they were emotionally attached to her (for example, Peeta); Cia, on the other hand, is more likely to be the one manipulated, not because she's weak, but because she feels deeply for others. There was never any point where I felt she was weak or unintelligent, though she does have weaknesses.
For the most part, The Testing had really great pacing and twists. Although, it did take me perhaps 50 pages or so to be completely hooked. It is around this point that Cia has reached the capital and has begun the testing... and then all hell breaks loose!
Whether you're a Hunger Games fan, a dystopian junkie, or just looking for a great, action packed read, The Testing is for you. Do not miss this book!
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LibraryThing member booksandbutter
This book was well written and well developed. I could not put it down. I will definitely look for more from this author. That being said, it's similarities to The Hunger Games was too numerous to count. If I was The Hunger Games author I would feel like my book was re-written. Not a completely new
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idea, but freshly written with plenty of the authors own personal style. Show Less
LibraryThing member PattyLouise
The Testing
by
Joelle Charbonneau
My " in a nutshell" summary...
Cia is going to be tested...it means going to the University and getting set for life in this Dystopian world she lives in.
My thoughts after reading this book...
The world is a more severe one. Everything is scarce. Talented students are
Cia is chosen for this Testing and is excited but the Testing is designed to be a matter of life and death...a matter of survival. Some parts of the test are paper and pencil while other parts are trying to stay alive amidst poisons and evil and explosions and killer animals. Everything that is going on is being watched. There is no clue as to whom can be trusted. Just because you survive one part doesn't mean you will survive the next. Plus even the candidates...some of them...are trying to kill each other. Whew!
What I loved about this book...
Cia...I loved Cia...she was everything that you want a heroine in a Dystopian novel to be.
What I did not love...
Cia reminded me of Katniss in The Hunger Games. I hate saying this and it could just be me and it's not really a bad thing. But the survival of the fittest and the unfeeling cruelty of some of the testers...kept reminding me...
Final thoughts...
I found this to be a fast paced exciting Dystopian thriller. Again...similar to another book with an amazing heroine but still fun
by
Joelle Charbonneau
My " in a nutshell" summary...
Cia is going to be tested...it means going to the University and getting set for life in this Dystopian world she lives in.
My thoughts after reading this book...
The world is a more severe one. Everything is scarce. Talented students are
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chosen for The Testing. Cia is one of the chosen ones. The book was fascinating. I liked it. It was exciting. It was fast paced. It was interesting. But...it reminded me of The Hunger Games. Seriously...Cia is chosen for this Testing and is excited but the Testing is designed to be a matter of life and death...a matter of survival. Some parts of the test are paper and pencil while other parts are trying to stay alive amidst poisons and evil and explosions and killer animals. Everything that is going on is being watched. There is no clue as to whom can be trusted. Just because you survive one part doesn't mean you will survive the next. Plus even the candidates...some of them...are trying to kill each other. Whew!
What I loved about this book...
Cia...I loved Cia...she was everything that you want a heroine in a Dystopian novel to be.
What I did not love...
Cia reminded me of Katniss in The Hunger Games. I hate saying this and it could just be me and it's not really a bad thing. But the survival of the fittest and the unfeeling cruelty of some of the testers...kept reminding me...
Final thoughts...
I found this to be a fast paced exciting Dystopian thriller. Again...similar to another book with an amazing heroine but still fun
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LibraryThing member retropelocin
In post-apocalyptic America the key to survival is leadership and the training of great leaders takes place at the University. To make it to the University, a select number of students from colonies across the surviving country must first make it through The Testing. 108 students will begin the
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process, only 29 will succeed. Joelle Charbonneau’s first foray into the young adult world wields 22 chapters of intense action and 22 cliffhangers making it impossible to find a point to take a break in your reading session. But, in all fairness, these characters are never given a break either. This is like reading a logic puzzle. Every scene, every word, will become important to the finale of this story. So pay close attention. Believe me…you do not want to fail The Testing. Show Less
LibraryThing member JRlibrary
So... do you hate or love a book that is clearly a Hunger Games wannabe? Who could blame an author for wanting to cash in on the Hunger Games fever and be the one who offered up the next serving of teen vs. teen competition to the death? Charbonneau has done just that, and with just enough
After the Seven Stages war, the world is a complete mess; wasteland where almost nothing will grow, freakishly mutated animals including humans that live beyond the borders of the Colonies, and water so badly polluted that some sections are beyond cleansing. All of the children living in the colonies study furiously, hoping desperately that they will be the one selected as a candidate for the Testing, a mysterious procedure that culls a large group of children down to a small, elite group who get to attend the University and become the future leaders of the United Commonwealth. Cia Vale, and her childhood friend and crush, Tomas Endress are both chosen, and on the night before she is to leave for the Testing, Cia finds out from her father that he fears for her safety, and wishes she wasn't going. Refusal to attend is punishable by death, so of course she has no alternative but to participate, but now it is not the joyful experience she anticipated.
The actual testing consists of four phases; the first phase a series of written tests, the second phase involving a puzzle box and a problem, the third phase a team activity, and the fourth phase a practical cross country trial involving all of the remaining students. It is the fourth phase that most reminded me of the Hunger Games, but the morality of Cia and her reluctance to harm her fellow competitors is present throughout the entire book.
I guarantee this book is going to fly off the shelves, and, at the risk of sounding like so many desperate publishers, I do believe this is a perfect read for lovers of the Hunger Games. If you enjoyed the Hunger Games, get yourself a copy of The Testing a.s.a.p. You won't regret it!
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differences to make it an eerily similar but still very interesting read.After the Seven Stages war, the world is a complete mess; wasteland where almost nothing will grow, freakishly mutated animals including humans that live beyond the borders of the Colonies, and water so badly polluted that some sections are beyond cleansing. All of the children living in the colonies study furiously, hoping desperately that they will be the one selected as a candidate for the Testing, a mysterious procedure that culls a large group of children down to a small, elite group who get to attend the University and become the future leaders of the United Commonwealth. Cia Vale, and her childhood friend and crush, Tomas Endress are both chosen, and on the night before she is to leave for the Testing, Cia finds out from her father that he fears for her safety, and wishes she wasn't going. Refusal to attend is punishable by death, so of course she has no alternative but to participate, but now it is not the joyful experience she anticipated.
The actual testing consists of four phases; the first phase a series of written tests, the second phase involving a puzzle box and a problem, the third phase a team activity, and the fourth phase a practical cross country trial involving all of the remaining students. It is the fourth phase that most reminded me of the Hunger Games, but the morality of Cia and her reluctance to harm her fellow competitors is present throughout the entire book.
I guarantee this book is going to fly off the shelves, and, at the risk of sounding like so many desperate publishers, I do believe this is a perfect read for lovers of the Hunger Games. If you enjoyed the Hunger Games, get yourself a copy of The Testing a.s.a.p. You won't regret it!
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LibraryThing member Jaylia3
Cia's country needs new leaders and as a recent graduate she hopes to be one of them. To do so she has to be chosen for and then pass The Testing so she can attend university in the capital city of Tosu, but no one from her home has been selected for many years, including her very talented older
If you've read The Hunger Games you'll notice that The Testing has many similarities, but Charbonneau seems to specialize in taking inspiration from others and writing a story that is at least as good as the original. Her skating rink series is a case in point--its characters and witty banter read like they have been influenced by Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, but the stories are fresh and better than the more recent, wearing thin offerings in the Plum series. As good as The Huger Games is, I enjoyed The Testing more. The premise makes more sense to me--instead of it being part of some purely sadistic surrender terms, the trials the young people go through in The Testing are to be selected for college and leadership positions. They are over the top trials, but there is some reasoning behind them, misguided as it is. And I love vividly written, the post-catastrophe Midwest setting. Cia is both capable and caring and makes a good main character, but though it's a five star book for me I might have liked the story even more if a budding romance hadn't dictated many of her actions.
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brother. Cia and her family live in The Five Lakes Colony of the United Commonwealth--the area that used to be known as the Great Lakes region but is now slowly recovering from the world wide environmental disaster caused by the Seven Stages War. When Cia is chosen she thinks her father will be happy, after all he went through The Testing himself, but instead he talks of danger and warns her to trust no one.If you've read The Hunger Games you'll notice that The Testing has many similarities, but Charbonneau seems to specialize in taking inspiration from others and writing a story that is at least as good as the original. Her skating rink series is a case in point--its characters and witty banter read like they have been influenced by Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, but the stories are fresh and better than the more recent, wearing thin offerings in the Plum series. As good as The Huger Games is, I enjoyed The Testing more. The premise makes more sense to me--instead of it being part of some purely sadistic surrender terms, the trials the young people go through in The Testing are to be selected for college and leadership positions. They are over the top trials, but there is some reasoning behind them, misguided as it is. And I love vividly written, the post-catastrophe Midwest setting. Cia is both capable and caring and makes a good main character, but though it's a five star book for me I might have liked the story even more if a budding romance hadn't dictated many of her actions.
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LibraryThing member JanaRose1
This is one of those books that grabbed my attention and just didn't let go. Set in a dystopic future, where nuclear warfare has changed the landscape. Malencia Vale is desperately hoping to be for the testing. Only through testing can she obtain further education and become a leader. When she is
I can't wait to read the next book in the series. This is a fascinating book, one full of interesting characters, life and death situations and a little bit of romance. Many will probably compare it to the Hunger Games, but I found it to be very unique. I enjoyed this book so much I passed the recommendation on to my family and friends.
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chosen, her father takes her aside to warn her about the treachery and destruction she will face. Armed with his knowledge, she wearily enters the testing grounds, only to find out that it is much worse that she ever could have imagined.I can't wait to read the next book in the series. This is a fascinating book, one full of interesting characters, life and death situations and a little bit of romance. Many will probably compare it to the Hunger Games, but I found it to be very unique. I enjoyed this book so much I passed the recommendation on to my family and friends.
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LibraryThing member muddyboy
This is a book that would not exist without the success of the Hunger Games of which this is an obvious rip off. A trilogy based on a group of teens that have to survive in a hostile world - now that is a novel concept!! I have read 3 young adult books with this plot (all trilogies) in the last
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four months. However, this one is the best of the bunch and I can see it keeping its young readers rapt attention. The characters are well drawn and interesting and the world they live in is hostile and unique. The premise is that a group of teens must risk death both due to the competition and its competitors to get into the university. Perhaps this is the way it is getting into the Ivy League today. For the audience it was intended for this will be a good one. Show Less
LibraryThing member ohsillytwigg
Cia is disappointed when she isn't chosen for The Testing at her graduation ceremony. The next day she finds out that there was a mistake, she (and several classmates) were chosen. That night, her father tells her the truth.
The tests Cia endures are gruesome and terrifying, and I'm really excited
My only issue with the book is that the romance seemed forced. Cia and Tomas transition from rare interactions to a couple very, very quickly. I think that if the author wanted Cia to be attached to someone during the tests, Cia and Tomas should have already been a couple.
The tests Cia endures are gruesome and terrifying, and I'm really excited
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to continue the series.My only issue with the book is that the romance seemed forced. Cia and Tomas transition from rare interactions to a couple very, very quickly. I think that if the author wanted Cia to be attached to someone during the tests, Cia and Tomas should have already been a couple.
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LibraryThing member lostinalibrary
Recently, on a different site, I came across a post in which someone disparaged The Count of Monte Cristo because, according to the poster, it was cliched and derivative. Now, unless the young lad reads a lot of 19th c and earlier French novels, this post was ludicrous - but it really jumped at me
So to be clear I am not suggesting that The Testing is in the same category as The Count of Monte Cristo and that, some day, it will join the ranks of the great classics. Not even close but, then, I doubt that any of the books it has been compared to will achieve that status. I did, however, find it an entertaining read. I liked most of the characters and, if the plot had more holes than a sieve, so what? It was a fun read, one to while away a rainy afternoon and then forget until the sequel comes out if you are so inclined to read it. And, frankly, that's about as good as it gets for the vast number of books written today.
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when I read The Testing. As a lot of other reviewers pointed out, this novel reads a lot like The Hunger Games which has been criticized for ripping off Battle Royale which has a lot of the same themes as Running Man which is suspiciously similar to...well, you get my drift. So should a book be criticized for copying the tropes of previous books, in which case China Mieville, really, writing a modern Moby Dick, shame on you! Or should books be reviewed on their own merits and is that even possible. And my answer, to be honest, is I don't have a clue except that it seems to me (and I'm certainly no expert on all things literary) that there are few books that can't be compared to previous ones going back to the Iliad and perhaps even earlier. I guess, at least to me, the real question is does the book in question stand on its own merits despite its pedigree or does it, on it own and in the vernacular, suck.So to be clear I am not suggesting that The Testing is in the same category as The Count of Monte Cristo and that, some day, it will join the ranks of the great classics. Not even close but, then, I doubt that any of the books it has been compared to will achieve that status. I did, however, find it an entertaining read. I liked most of the characters and, if the plot had more holes than a sieve, so what? It was a fun read, one to while away a rainy afternoon and then forget until the sequel comes out if you are so inclined to read it. And, frankly, that's about as good as it gets for the vast number of books written today.
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LibraryThing member lisagibson
“The Testing”, the first in a trilogy, was fabulous! While it did remind me of the Hunger Games, it’s very different as well. As Cia went through the testing she came to understand her own strength, yet also held on to her humanity. She realized that in working together and connecting to
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other human beings that we are ourselves stronger. The building relationship between her and Tomas was not too over the top, and added a great element to the story. I would definitely recommend this book and am already anticipating the next book in this series. Btw, on the right side bar I've posted a free link to read the prequel and see the trailer. Please go check it out. Enjoy! I’m giving this one 5 grade A kisses! Show Less
LibraryThing member jmchshannon
In the Unified Commonwealth, the Testing is an important rite of passage for any intelligent new graduate hoping to attend the university. It is the process by which the Commonwealth identifies new leaders in all fields and essential to promote the continued survival of the country in its ongoing
While comparisons to stories like The Hunger Games and Divergent are inevitable, there is a decided lack of “us versus them” that defines those previous dystopian novels. Indeed, this is what sets Joelle Charbonneau's The Testing apart from them. In fact, while the entire country is recovering from wars and terrible natural catastrophes, there are none of the hallmarks of a true dystopian society. People are poor but happy. There is no obvious repression or cult-like following. Questions raised are answered. Those who chose not to join the new post-war government are not forced to do so and are left alone. Things are not perfect, but no society ever really is. Even Cia understands that and enters into The Testing with eyes wide open. By all accounts, it is a fully-functioning government that is still working through some issues but genuinely has the citizens’ best interest at heart.
Of course, that does not mean that things are what they seem. The Testing process, as Cia soon discovers, is brutal, made more so by the lack of direct involvement by the examiners when danger is present. To subjugate sixteen-year-olds to such life-or-death scenarios could be construed as a form of torture. However, considering the Testing is specifically designed to weed out those who would make poor leaders creates a scenario in which the ends might really justify the means. This very large gray area is one of the best things about The Testing for the very reason that all of the potentially dubious actions on the part of the examiners are so easy to defend. It might be harsh, unfair, and extremely dangerous, but it does get the results required to help rebuild the country. Cia’s father went through the same program and thrived, after all, so it cannot be a truly horrible experience. The fact that there is nothing obviously sinister and underhanded about the government officials in Tosu City adds to a reader’s overall uncertainty and a general feeling of discomfort that are the trademarks of this particular genre.
Ms. Charbonneau has wisely stepped away from the ubiquitous romantic element, and the story is much stronger for it. Gone is the tired love triangle, and the proceedings of the various tests take precedence over any potential relationships. When romance does blossom, it does so naturally without much of the rhapsodizing that tends to occur. They might dawdle over the test but they never lose sight of the end goal, so while they take the time to kiss and talk, the story still progresses. The pairing works well, but much like the testing process itself, one cannot help but feel that there is something about the romance that is not right, as if the two lovebirds are being manipulated for some as yet unknown reason. Again, there is nothing obvious that would indicate that this is true, and yet the feeling persists.
The Testing is a big change for Ms. Charbonneau, but she manages the dramatic shift in genre and audience with aplomb. Her story line is exciting and has enough twists and turns to distinguish it from other popular dystopian novels. Cia is spirited, making for some exciting scenes, but she also loves the Commonwealth and is proud of everything that it has accomplished to date. This loyalty to her country is unusual in such novels and adds a different dynamic to the overall story - one in which the bad guy is not obvious and could very easily be nothing but the reader's imagination. This doubt certainly increases the suspense but also makes potential plots for future novels quite intriguing. There is no cliffhanger ending, other than a reader's ongoing confusion about the story's villain, but that is enough to pique a reader's interest. In all, it is a strong addition to the YA category and a fascinating twist of the dystopian genre.
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transformation. To Cia, whose father is a graduate of the university and a respected community leader, following in her father's footsteps is all she has ever wanted, and being selected for the Testing process is a dream come true. Even the doubts raised by her father's warnings fail to curb her enthusiasm for the experience. That is, until certain things happen during the testing process that raise moral and ethical dilemmas and leave Cia conflicted between what she has always known and what she observes. In this game of high rewards and even higher stakes, Cia must decide whether to trust her instincts or her experiences. To fail to do either could mean her life.While comparisons to stories like The Hunger Games and Divergent are inevitable, there is a decided lack of “us versus them” that defines those previous dystopian novels. Indeed, this is what sets Joelle Charbonneau's The Testing apart from them. In fact, while the entire country is recovering from wars and terrible natural catastrophes, there are none of the hallmarks of a true dystopian society. People are poor but happy. There is no obvious repression or cult-like following. Questions raised are answered. Those who chose not to join the new post-war government are not forced to do so and are left alone. Things are not perfect, but no society ever really is. Even Cia understands that and enters into The Testing with eyes wide open. By all accounts, it is a fully-functioning government that is still working through some issues but genuinely has the citizens’ best interest at heart.
Of course, that does not mean that things are what they seem. The Testing process, as Cia soon discovers, is brutal, made more so by the lack of direct involvement by the examiners when danger is present. To subjugate sixteen-year-olds to such life-or-death scenarios could be construed as a form of torture. However, considering the Testing is specifically designed to weed out those who would make poor leaders creates a scenario in which the ends might really justify the means. This very large gray area is one of the best things about The Testing for the very reason that all of the potentially dubious actions on the part of the examiners are so easy to defend. It might be harsh, unfair, and extremely dangerous, but it does get the results required to help rebuild the country. Cia’s father went through the same program and thrived, after all, so it cannot be a truly horrible experience. The fact that there is nothing obviously sinister and underhanded about the government officials in Tosu City adds to a reader’s overall uncertainty and a general feeling of discomfort that are the trademarks of this particular genre.
Ms. Charbonneau has wisely stepped away from the ubiquitous romantic element, and the story is much stronger for it. Gone is the tired love triangle, and the proceedings of the various tests take precedence over any potential relationships. When romance does blossom, it does so naturally without much of the rhapsodizing that tends to occur. They might dawdle over the test but they never lose sight of the end goal, so while they take the time to kiss and talk, the story still progresses. The pairing works well, but much like the testing process itself, one cannot help but feel that there is something about the romance that is not right, as if the two lovebirds are being manipulated for some as yet unknown reason. Again, there is nothing obvious that would indicate that this is true, and yet the feeling persists.
The Testing is a big change for Ms. Charbonneau, but she manages the dramatic shift in genre and audience with aplomb. Her story line is exciting and has enough twists and turns to distinguish it from other popular dystopian novels. Cia is spirited, making for some exciting scenes, but she also loves the Commonwealth and is proud of everything that it has accomplished to date. This loyalty to her country is unusual in such novels and adds a different dynamic to the overall story - one in which the bad guy is not obvious and could very easily be nothing but the reader's imagination. This doubt certainly increases the suspense but also makes potential plots for future novels quite intriguing. There is no cliffhanger ending, other than a reader's ongoing confusion about the story's villain, but that is enough to pique a reader's interest. In all, it is a strong addition to the YA category and a fascinating twist of the dystopian genre.
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LibraryThing member Beamis12
Have never been a big sci-fi reader but these post apocalyptic novels are my guilty pleasures. There are some things that struck me as somewhat hokey but for the most part I just really enjoyed reading this. Sort of a mix between the Hunger Games and Divergent and of course some of its own flavor.
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Takes place in a bombed out Chicago, which I found interesting as well. Good escapist read. Look forward to the next in the series. Show Less
LibraryThing member DarkFaerieTales
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: Originality is thrown to the corner with the almost exact premise of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, with a few interesting twists. A short read, with some romance and lots of action, but it has a very similar tone and overall feel to
Opening Sentence: Graduation day.
The Review:
The first thing I thought after reading a few chapters was, “It’s like the Hunger Games!” And it is, in so many ways. Malencia, or Cia for short, is chosen to compete in a mandatory “Testing” to win a prize: a future job for The United Commonwealth. Soon she realizes it isn’t just a few hours with a sore hand and pencil — if you lose, you lose your life, your eye, you name it. At one point they are alone in the wilderness, with certain weapons and making allies, picking off competitors and fighting off dangers. (Sounding similar?) Along with her is a childhood friend, Tomas, and they have a few scenes that made me smile, but nothing compared to the cuteness of the relationship Peeta and Katniss developed. We’re talking about something leading off The Hunger Games, after all. You can’t really beat that, although I feel like Charbonneau made an effort.
This book was cool and all, but after reading Collin’s masterpiece, it didn’t make me feel anything profound. If we’re looking at the writing style, there isn’t anything to complain about —- the sentences flowed smoothly and description was plenty. The characters, in my opinion, were the part of the story that was lacking.
Tomas, Cia’s love interest, wasn’t doing it for me. I was actually convinced throughout the book that he was going to somehow betray her when it mattered most, but I was wrong! You can’t make the love interest smart, handsome, and completely flawless. It’s not realistic, which is why I had my doubts. I feel as if the author didn’t build on their relationship before The Testing enough, because they’re childhood friends, and I feel like if the author sprinkled in some private jokes, I could have warmed up to him.
Another thing was how quickly paced the book moved — one moment, Cia is enthusiastic about The Testing, a page later she has convinced herself that The United Commonwealth is keeping something from her about it. One chapter ends with her walking into her room and finding a roommate who committed suicide, which is surprising considering that character seemed perfectly healthy, if not a nasty personality, an hour or so back.
I feel like the tone was set well, however. It’s eerie, dark, yet romantic and mysterious.
Wrapping it all up, I thought this book was predictable and unoriginal. I had no problem with the plot or writing, the characters were what made me raise my eyebrows. If you are a fan of The Hunger Games, you might enjoy this. Or you could be like me, irritated that if The Hunger Games was going to be redone, they might have done a better job with it. This is something to get from the library, either way; don’t waste your money unless you’re on Hunger Games withdrawal and seriously need it.
Notable Scene:
Ryme. Nina. Malachi. Boyd. Gill. Annalise. Nicolette. Roman. Zandri.
A pile of bodies lies in the corner when the evaluators turn to me. Dr. Barnes shakes his head. He tells me I showed great promise. It’s too bad I trusted the wrong people. Leaders cannot afford that mistake. He tells me I failed as another Testing official pulls out a crossbow, aims, fires. The quarrel punches through my stomach, and I scream myself awake before I hit the floor.
FTC Advisory: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children provided me with a copy of The Testing. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Originality is thrown to the corner with the almost exact premise of The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins, with a few interesting twists. A short read, with some romance and lots of action, but it has a very similar tone and overall feel to
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it.Opening Sentence: Graduation day.
The Review:
The first thing I thought after reading a few chapters was, “It’s like the Hunger Games!” And it is, in so many ways. Malencia, or Cia for short, is chosen to compete in a mandatory “Testing” to win a prize: a future job for The United Commonwealth. Soon she realizes it isn’t just a few hours with a sore hand and pencil — if you lose, you lose your life, your eye, you name it. At one point they are alone in the wilderness, with certain weapons and making allies, picking off competitors and fighting off dangers. (Sounding similar?) Along with her is a childhood friend, Tomas, and they have a few scenes that made me smile, but nothing compared to the cuteness of the relationship Peeta and Katniss developed. We’re talking about something leading off The Hunger Games, after all. You can’t really beat that, although I feel like Charbonneau made an effort.
This book was cool and all, but after reading Collin’s masterpiece, it didn’t make me feel anything profound. If we’re looking at the writing style, there isn’t anything to complain about —- the sentences flowed smoothly and description was plenty. The characters, in my opinion, were the part of the story that was lacking.
Tomas, Cia’s love interest, wasn’t doing it for me. I was actually convinced throughout the book that he was going to somehow betray her when it mattered most, but I was wrong! You can’t make the love interest smart, handsome, and completely flawless. It’s not realistic, which is why I had my doubts. I feel as if the author didn’t build on their relationship before The Testing enough, because they’re childhood friends, and I feel like if the author sprinkled in some private jokes, I could have warmed up to him.
Another thing was how quickly paced the book moved — one moment, Cia is enthusiastic about The Testing, a page later she has convinced herself that The United Commonwealth is keeping something from her about it. One chapter ends with her walking into her room and finding a roommate who committed suicide, which is surprising considering that character seemed perfectly healthy, if not a nasty personality, an hour or so back.
I feel like the tone was set well, however. It’s eerie, dark, yet romantic and mysterious.
Wrapping it all up, I thought this book was predictable and unoriginal. I had no problem with the plot or writing, the characters were what made me raise my eyebrows. If you are a fan of The Hunger Games, you might enjoy this. Or you could be like me, irritated that if The Hunger Games was going to be redone, they might have done a better job with it. This is something to get from the library, either way; don’t waste your money unless you’re on Hunger Games withdrawal and seriously need it.
Notable Scene:
Ryme. Nina. Malachi. Boyd. Gill. Annalise. Nicolette. Roman. Zandri.
A pile of bodies lies in the corner when the evaluators turn to me. Dr. Barnes shakes his head. He tells me I showed great promise. It’s too bad I trusted the wrong people. Leaders cannot afford that mistake. He tells me I failed as another Testing official pulls out a crossbow, aims, fires. The quarrel punches through my stomach, and I scream myself awake before I hit the floor.
FTC Advisory: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children provided me with a copy of The Testing. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
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LibraryThing member MarjoleinL
Cia is chosen for the Testing. Her parents aren't happy, even worried about her going there. But she has to, when you're chosen to do the Testing, you have no choice. The Testing has 4 parts. Some are about knowledge, some about survival. Will Cia make it through the Testing alive?
I was a bit
I reminded me a lot of the Hunger Games. There were tests where kids had to prove they were good enough to survive. Still it was a good book I thought. It sucked me in the story and it was kind of scary in some parts.
I was a bit
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sceptical when I started this book, but also enthousiast, since I might have found a Hunger Games-ish book. And it was.I reminded me a lot of the Hunger Games. There were tests where kids had to prove they were good enough to survive. Still it was a good book I thought. It sucked me in the story and it was kind of scary in some parts.
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LibraryThing member jjmcgaffey
This is a Netgalley review - and I decided to do it by taking notes as I read. If you're sensitive to spoilers, DO NOT READ this.
OK - what exactly has been Cia's and Tomas's relationship? First, in the skimmer, she's had a mild crush on him but she's not thinking about dating or boys. Then they've
Why? What's the point of all the secrecy and coercion in the Testing? (writing as they arrive at the Testing Center) How does it help reconstruction, or keeping the current rulers in power, or anything else? OK, a little more explanation as she sets out on the trek...but still. Weeding out the nearly best doesn't really seem the smartest way to keep things going. And nobody's seriously objected in 50 years?
Elevator - is it that gentle? I'd have expected them to stagger, and notice more than the numbers changing if it went up 4 floors in "a matter of seconds" and they've never been in one before.
Why would a bully be chosen at all? ("mean eyes")
She's awfully sensitive if her father's single, quick description of the testing room a) made her able to instantly recognize it and b) gave her a mild panic attack upon recognition.
What's the name of the water purifier? He's mentioned twice now, with never a name attached. It begins to sound deliberate.
And no mention, in the discussion of what the cameras saw, of the fact that they made her walk in to find Ryme.
Why is Michal on her side? Does he know her father, or something? Why her - just because she spotted the cameras?
Minor point - not from Chicago, never heard of the arch. All of it made sense except the B. If it was BU L G or something, it wouldn't have distracted me (enough to set me searching the internet for the answer).
An awful lot of telling. "But Tomas wants to enter." Either the dialog should express that or...well, that's about it. It would be a longer book, I suppose, if they argued out all the bits, but I think it would be stronger.
What if? and she doesn't immediately think of the bracelets. Sometimes she's unrealistically stupid.
"every mutated animal became vicious". Yeah. Speaking of unrealistic. And 99 years later? Even less likely. Now this one probably is dangerous, but as a blanket statement...no.
Dumb. If there's infection, you _don't_ close the wound. I don't even have basic first aid training - nothing but putting on bandaids - and I know that.
Food = meat? sheesh
Walking away from her watch to forage, without waking anyone. Again, unrealistically stupid (though she gives a somewhat reasonable reason. Very reasonable if there wasn't good reason to keep watch!).
All the gifted food is very non-foragable. He could have given her eggs and carrots, or the like. Sounds more like a test to me.
"Whatever chemicals twisted the humans in this
area have now infected me." Oh, come on. Infection is infection - and remember the 99 years? Stupid. Not to mention they keep washing in pools and rivers, with both of them with open wounds - lack of infection would be amazing.
"listen with a smile as Tomas weaves a tale about a squirrel he tried to capture" This is how they cover silence? Sigh.
Balanced - and earlier, she threw down the bike. Doesn't it have two rear wheels? I don't see how a medium-sized cart wheel could be turned into a larger bike wheel - or why the work would need two (and it said they used both wheels). Every time she mentions this it shakes the story universe a little.
So unlikely. Why can't Tomas do the infection removal? Doesn't she trust him to do the full job? If she's as bad off as presented, she shouldn't be capable of doing it - pain makes your grip weak more often than not, for one thing.
"barrel of the gun peaks out from behind the tree" typo - and the first one I've spotted! That would be impressive in a finished book.
If you bank a fire, you reduce the heat as well as the light. Not very useful. Though I'm not sure what she's using it for.
Yeah. There. Two back wheels on her bike, which needs balancing and has fallen over when she let go...inconsistency.
Which arm is she using to hang on to Tomas? The bad one? Or steering with the bad one? Another inconsistency. OK, described more clearly later, but wow that improved fast.
"Tomas has the pills. Both of them. Our one chance at keeping our memories of The Testing alive if we make it through the interview" One chance? So despite drinking the vial, she doesn't believe it will do anything? Hmmm - did Tomas forget to give her a pill or...was that intentional? She didn't (as far as we were shown) show any interest in getting one, though.
Fourteen of 29 does not equal 20. She said 20 when aiming for the finish line (I don't remember what was said earlier). Oh, OK, I missed the "five more candidates". Maybe restate the full number? In the "such a small group" thought?
Oh. The pills are for the memory wipe, the vial was for the truth serum. Huh. Very convenient.
"The small meal I consumed rolls in my stomach" should that be "roils"? If so, second typo in the whole thing - still very impressive.
"Tomas walks me to my door, gives me a tender kiss, and then gives me something even better— his love. When I tell him I think I might love him back, " Oh come on. This one _really_ should be dialog.
If I were just reading, not reviewing, I'd have enjoyed (most) of the story. Some things would have bothered me anyway - mostly the survival stuff, and maybe the bike. Universe inconsistencies. Because I was reviewing and looking for problems, I probably found more than I would have noticed in a straight read-through. However, I think that I would have enjoyed it, put down the book and felt unsatisfied, and the same sorts of questions I asked here would have come up after the fact. It's an excellent story, particularly as I dislike manipulation/plotting storylines and don't usually think much of post-apocalypse stories. This one drew me in and had me very interested - it helped that the POV character is a decent person (as all too many are not, in this type of story). But there are some annoying inconsistencies in what's presented, and way too much tell and not enough show. More dialog would make it a better, stronger story (assuming the author can write good dialog, which seems to be true from what is in here).
I'd rate it 3.5/5 - interesting, not my preferred type of story, and with some problems. Not sure the problems can be fixed at this point, if the book's already in ARC. Is this a first novel? If so, I want to keep track of this author and see what she can do with a couple more books under her belt. And I will probably reread this, and definitely will look for the next one.
OK, not a first novel, though a first in this genre (as far as I can tell) - her previous were detective novels. I wonder if they were first-person, or the more common third-person? I'll have to check them out, and see if the same thing (the lack of dialog) appears there.
OK - what exactly has been Cia's and Tomas's relationship? First, in the skimmer, she's had a mild crush on him but she's not thinking about dating or boys. Then they've
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worked and played and danced together. Then they've regularly been partners and gotten top scores. Inconsistent!Why? What's the point of all the secrecy and coercion in the Testing? (writing as they arrive at the Testing Center) How does it help reconstruction, or keeping the current rulers in power, or anything else? OK, a little more explanation as she sets out on the trek...but still. Weeding out the nearly best doesn't really seem the smartest way to keep things going. And nobody's seriously objected in 50 years?
Elevator - is it that gentle? I'd have expected them to stagger, and notice more than the numbers changing if it went up 4 floors in "a matter of seconds" and they've never been in one before.
Why would a bully be chosen at all? ("mean eyes")
She's awfully sensitive if her father's single, quick description of the testing room a) made her able to instantly recognize it and b) gave her a mild panic attack upon recognition.
What's the name of the water purifier? He's mentioned twice now, with never a name attached. It begins to sound deliberate.
And no mention, in the discussion of what the cameras saw, of the fact that they made her walk in to find Ryme.
Why is Michal on her side? Does he know her father, or something? Why her - just because she spotted the cameras?
Minor point - not from Chicago, never heard of the arch. All of it made sense except the B. If it was BU L G or something, it wouldn't have distracted me (enough to set me searching the internet for the answer).
An awful lot of telling. "But Tomas wants to enter." Either the dialog should express that or...well, that's about it. It would be a longer book, I suppose, if they argued out all the bits, but I think it would be stronger.
What if? and she doesn't immediately think of the bracelets. Sometimes she's unrealistically stupid.
"every mutated animal became vicious". Yeah. Speaking of unrealistic. And 99 years later? Even less likely. Now this one probably is dangerous, but as a blanket statement...no.
Dumb. If there's infection, you _don't_ close the wound. I don't even have basic first aid training - nothing but putting on bandaids - and I know that.
Food = meat? sheesh
Walking away from her watch to forage, without waking anyone. Again, unrealistically stupid (though she gives a somewhat reasonable reason. Very reasonable if there wasn't good reason to keep watch!).
All the gifted food is very non-foragable. He could have given her eggs and carrots, or the like. Sounds more like a test to me.
"Whatever chemicals twisted the humans in this
area have now infected me." Oh, come on. Infection is infection - and remember the 99 years? Stupid. Not to mention they keep washing in pools and rivers, with both of them with open wounds - lack of infection would be amazing.
"listen with a smile as Tomas weaves a tale about a squirrel he tried to capture" This is how they cover silence? Sigh.
Balanced - and earlier, she threw down the bike. Doesn't it have two rear wheels? I don't see how a medium-sized cart wheel could be turned into a larger bike wheel - or why the work would need two (and it said they used both wheels). Every time she mentions this it shakes the story universe a little.
So unlikely. Why can't Tomas do the infection removal? Doesn't she trust him to do the full job? If she's as bad off as presented, she shouldn't be capable of doing it - pain makes your grip weak more often than not, for one thing.
"barrel of the gun peaks out from behind the tree" typo - and the first one I've spotted! That would be impressive in a finished book.
If you bank a fire, you reduce the heat as well as the light. Not very useful. Though I'm not sure what she's using it for.
Yeah. There. Two back wheels on her bike, which needs balancing and has fallen over when she let go...inconsistency.
Which arm is she using to hang on to Tomas? The bad one? Or steering with the bad one? Another inconsistency. OK, described more clearly later, but wow that improved fast.
"Tomas has the pills. Both of them. Our one chance at keeping our memories of The Testing alive if we make it through the interview" One chance? So despite drinking the vial, she doesn't believe it will do anything? Hmmm - did Tomas forget to give her a pill or...was that intentional? She didn't (as far as we were shown) show any interest in getting one, though.
Fourteen of 29 does not equal 20. She said 20 when aiming for the finish line (I don't remember what was said earlier). Oh, OK, I missed the "five more candidates". Maybe restate the full number? In the "such a small group" thought?
Oh. The pills are for the memory wipe, the vial was for the truth serum. Huh. Very convenient.
"The small meal I consumed rolls in my stomach" should that be "roils"? If so, second typo in the whole thing - still very impressive.
"Tomas walks me to my door, gives me a tender kiss, and then gives me something even better— his love. When I tell him I think I might love him back, " Oh come on. This one _really_ should be dialog.
If I were just reading, not reviewing, I'd have enjoyed (most) of the story. Some things would have bothered me anyway - mostly the survival stuff, and maybe the bike. Universe inconsistencies. Because I was reviewing and looking for problems, I probably found more than I would have noticed in a straight read-through. However, I think that I would have enjoyed it, put down the book and felt unsatisfied, and the same sorts of questions I asked here would have come up after the fact. It's an excellent story, particularly as I dislike manipulation/plotting storylines and don't usually think much of post-apocalypse stories. This one drew me in and had me very interested - it helped that the POV character is a decent person (as all too many are not, in this type of story). But there are some annoying inconsistencies in what's presented, and way too much tell and not enough show. More dialog would make it a better, stronger story (assuming the author can write good dialog, which seems to be true from what is in here).
I'd rate it 3.5/5 - interesting, not my preferred type of story, and with some problems. Not sure the problems can be fixed at this point, if the book's already in ARC. Is this a first novel? If so, I want to keep track of this author and see what she can do with a couple more books under her belt. And I will probably reread this, and definitely will look for the next one.
OK, not a first novel, though a first in this genre (as far as I can tell) - her previous were detective novels. I wonder if they were first-person, or the more common third-person? I'll have to check them out, and see if the same thing (the lack of dialog) appears there.
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LibraryThing member crucena
Latest of the Hunger Games type that is actually better written than some.
Evil adults making sure that only the most superior children are allowed to enter University. Mistakes in reasoning can kill you. Alliances are formed, traitors are uncovered and through it all a girl realizes that her
Evil adults making sure that only the most superior children are allowed to enter University. Mistakes in reasoning can kill you. Alliances are formed, traitors are uncovered and through it all a girl realizes that her
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father never really wanted her to do the Testing but had given her enough information to help her through it. Show Less
LibraryThing member amazzuca26
Quick read. Interesting spin on the dystopia.
LibraryThing member Amanda16948
This novel is very "Hunger Games" - esque. It had me hooked from the opening with the very likable characters Cia and Tomas. There are the predictable characters that you love, hate, and are not too sure about. The Testing is well written and has very few, if any, slow moments. It is a must read
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for any dystopian lovers. Show Less
Awards
Nebraska Golden Sower Award (Honor — 2016)
Young Hoosier Book Award (Nominee — Middle Grade — 2018)
Utah Beehive Book Award (Nominee — Young Adult — 2015)
Eliot Rosewater Indiana High School Book Award (Nominee — 2016)
Iowa Teen Award (Nominee — 2017)
Agatha Award (Nominee — 2013)
Sunshine State Young Reader's Award (Nominee — Grades 6-8 — 2016)
Lincoln Award: Illinois Teen Readers' Choice Award (Nominee — 2015)
Grand Canyon Reader Award (Nominee — 2016)
Arkansas Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2015)
Colorado Blue Spruce Award (Nominee — 2016)
Truman Readers Award (Nominee — 2016)
Virginia Readers' Choice (Nominee — High School — 2016)
Evergreen Teen Book Award (Nominee — 2016)
Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers (Top Ten — 2014)
Young Adult Favorites Award (2014)
Tome Society It List (2015)
Illinois Reads (6-8 — 2014)
Texas Lone Star Reading List (2014)
Call number
YA B Cha