Matched- Ally Condie

I don't usually read anything but adult fiction. But one of my avid teen patrons insisted I read the Suzanne Collins Hunger Games series. I ended up listening to the first two in audio format (#3 is cued up on my MP3 player), and had to admit - I was hooked.

So when Ella mentioned that she had just read the first book in a new dystopian trilogy that she thought I should read, I agreed. I chose to again 'read' the book in audio format.

Matched by Ally Condie tells the story of Cassia, who lives in a world run by The Society - who dictate anything and everything that happens. What to wear, what to eat and when, leisure activities, the job you will have for life, monitor your dreams and... who you will be 'matched' or married to . Big Brother is indeed watching. I found the world Condie has created quite fascinating and thought provoking.

At Cassia's matching ceremony, she is paired with Xander, a friend she has known since childhood. But ever so briefly, another picture appeared. That of Ky - branded as an aberration - from the outer provinces. As her friendship with Ky blossoms, she is exposed to new thoughts, new feelings and choices to be made.

Matched is not as action driven or as violent as The Hunger Games. The focus is more on the romantic triangle between Cassia, Xander and Ky. The story moves at a slower pace and I did find myself wanting something to 'happen'. Now, that being said, I did enjoy the book - it certainly pays homage to Lois Lowry's The Giver.
The reader for the audio book version - Kate Simses -  has a very innocent, sweet voice that actually was perfect for the character.

The second book - Crossed - is due out in Fall 2011. I'll be listening. I'm curious about those outer provinces.