Review: I really wanted “Shatter Me” to live up to the hype for me, but it just didn’t. I think that this is in part due to the fact that “Shatter Me” is a middle grade book and had I read it in middle school, my thoughts would definitely be different. 

 

One issue I came across while reading this novel as an adult was the surface level depth of the storyline. I think that this issue stemmed from the novel’s pacing. Certain sections felt rushed, especially the period in which Adam and Juliette fell in love, which happened instantly. 

 

Aside from the pacing, I felt as though there wasn’t really anything to distinguish “Shatter Me” from its dystopian competitors. The plot of “Shatter Me” follows the same formula of other novels in its genre and contains the following clichés: an oppressive government under the guise of a utopian society, a persecuted protagonist with a powerful genetic makeup, and the manipulation of the world’s historical records. 

 

Though it falls prey to clichés, Mafi does do a great job constructing the world in “Shatter Me.” Mafi creates a government known to the reader as “The Reestablishment.” The government divides each continent into sectors that are then placed under the control of sector commanders. Opposite the government is Omega Point, a rebel party. The main sources of conflict as the series progresses are The Reestablishment and Omega Point as they fight for control over the Earth’s population. The planet itself is dying—there is no food, no animals, and air pollution. All in all, Mafi does a fantastic job outlining the world’s backstory, political structure, social classes, and environment. 

 

I also found Mafi’s use of strikethroughs, repetition, hyperbolic language, and counting to be unique in depicting Juliette’s erraticism. 

 

As I continue along in the series, I look forward to following Warner’s character arc. I find him to be an intriguing antagonist and his interactions with Juliette are entertaining. I have a feeling that he will be my favorite character. I love a good villain!