ANTHEM
By Ayn Rand

Rating: 7
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Type: Fiction
Pages: 105

Context and Recommendations
I actually read the student edition, so of course there was nothing in it, but if you decide to read this book, judging from "I have re-worded some passages and cut out some excessive language," you decide if it's right for you. My age recommendation is 13 to any age. Seriously, if you're older this is for you, too. The only reason I'm saying this is because this book was written in 1961, so it can be a little advanced concerning the way of writing.

My English teacher assigned us this book over fall break to do hours and hours of homework on that she cancelled in an email that I got after I did it all. Anyway, I was actually very surprised to discover that I loved it. I've never read a classic where actual stuff happens (I've read, like, two, don't trust me) so it was something new. To be honest, the book scared me a little. Even Unwind's society didn't shake me; I'm too adorable to be unwound. But the thought of absolute collectivism disturbs me. Here's a helpful hint: Everyone refers to themselves as "we." "I" is not a word. Independence is punishable by death.

Yeah?

Yeah.

Should You Read It?
Absolutely. This is one of the most unique books I've ever read. Though the idea may come from a real life style(Ayn Rand's inspiration was Russia, in which she wrote this book after escaping to the US. How do you like Russia now Kyle?), the community created blows my mind. The extremes gone to keep everyone dull and one-minded are indeed extreme. I particularly appreciate the transition from obedient participant to a strongly developed protagonist. It is something many authors have attempted and many have failed.

I really should mention why I gave this book a relatively low score in contrast to how much I enjoyed reading it. The ending was sort of wishy-washy in my opinion. I don't actually know what wishy-washy means but it feels fitting. I won't ruin the story, but all of a sudden the main character can do all this stuff that is totally not easy to do, but it benefits the story. I'm sorry, just not working for me. Like, give it a few days of practicing before you're suddenly all gung-ho superstar. So should you still read it? Yes, yes, everybody should read it, yes. Seriously, this is a true classic. I don't have anymore words.

Summary

Blunt Summary


You'll Like This if you Liked These (sort of, probably):
The Giver
Delirium
The Unwanteds
Unwind

I was like, omg, why is no one doing their job and accepting/declining this, so I look at it and realized it said October 15, which is when I started it but didn't finish. So sorry if me re-submitting it confuses anyone, pretty sure I should be blonde. Toodles.