November 21, 2011

Book Review: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Published by HarperCollins Nov 15 2011
Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary
Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. 

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color. 

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now. 

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior. 

    I have no idea where to begin. The buzz and positive reviews have really said it all. I'm not sure how to articulate how I felt while reading this, in a way that will stand out  do the book justice. 

It was awesome  exceptional from the first page.  The fact that this is my favourite genre to read may have  probably has something to do with my love for this story, but I also think the writing was strong, the plot was compelling and I adored Juliette. I wavered between wanting to be her (um...can we say Adam!) and wanting to rescue her myself.  
I read this is in one sitting. I could not tear myself away, and I know that I'll want to need to go back and re-read again because at the rate I turned the pages I'm sure I missed a few things. :) 
 Tahereh has an lovely, admirable, gifted writing style. She's able to compel the reader forward, but there is still beauty in her words. I marked many phrases and quotes from the book as I read. As I go back to read again, I'm sure I'll find more.  I am looking forward to reading it again, and can not wait for more from this talented author. Highly  Very Highly Recommended.

For more information about the author:   
Her website:  http://taherehmafi.com/ 

4 comments:

  1. Omigosh yes, wasn't this so good?! I just loved it. Can't wait until my copy arrives from Book Depository, since the ARC I had didn't have the cover (and, like you, I definitely need to re-read it).

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  2. I love your review, Jen! Haha, I see you adapted Shatter Me's "crossing out words" aspect. ;)


    -Wendy from A Cupcake and a Latte: YA Reviews

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  3. Haha, nice use of strike-throughs ;)

    I loved this book too! I wanted to re-read it the minute I finished. Great review! :)

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  4. Totally agree with your review! My copy is covered with sticky notes marking my favourite quotes. Such beautiful writing!

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