Brian

Expect a much more immersive and vastly different version in the book than one might remember from the movie. And it's a bit crazy that this story about a poverish future where society lives mostly in a Metaverse was written almost 15 years ago. The social commentary and depiction of where we seem to be headed in real life is not subtle, but is also not heavy-handed and is rather clear, concise, and pointed. Playing this out against the backdrop of virtual reality, video games, and a healthy obsession with pop culture made it a fun and engaging read that moved at a really good pace, while at its foundational level also being a well-told, unique treasure hunt story.

Beautifully and classically written, just goes a tad too detailed or deep many times throughout. The tale is one of good story beats and there is very strong character development, mainly due to the author's aforementioned style. Yet the style juxtaposed with the exploration of themes like belonging, rejection, destiny/manifest destiny and more make for the strongest, most intriguing parts of the book.

A bit confused as to how the second book fits into the same world as The Giver, other than it being some alternate form of society, too. But while it has a bit of a caste system at play, it doesn't have the same twisty, almost dystopian feel as the first story. Almost halfway through the book, it's also unclear whether the two siloed stories take place in the same world and if they are related at all. Then when looking at this as a standalone story, it still comes off as a very basic tale of a young girl displaced who is trying to find her place in a minimalistic, centuries-old type setting that has a few odd rules and dynamics. It is supposed to feel like a big reveal and conclusion at the end, but instead feels very anti-climactic and even uneventful after said ‘surprise'.

Really like the style/quick pace of the writing. Very action-driven plot, which was a good thing. Mystery unravels really well and at the perfect speed to keep you intrigued and engaged - especially if you realize what is going on just before it's fully revealed. Liked the short bursts of prose and the first-person narrative style was perfect for the blend of mystery, science, and philosophy weaved through the story. Very good twist in the last third and a satisfying conclusion, as well.

While there is a decent flow and narrative to the novel, it is a thick read with detailed storytelling that feels at times ‘stuck in the weeds' - it doesn't even begin to unravel the central mystery until about halfway through. There are long stretches of well-written prose, but even the exposition around the cold case provide too much detail about the circumstances and characters that end up making it a bit of a slog in parts. The reveals are decent (if not disturbing), but at the same time, they are nothing unique, shocking, or even surprising if you've read a handful of dark thrillers before.