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Nothing But Reading Challenges discussion
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Matched
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Condie, Ally - Matched (Matched, #1) - SEPTEMBER BOM -Start Date September 12th 2012
(I have finished the book but I'll try to answer as if I haven't)Discussion Questions/Comments for Day 1
1. (Pre reading question) "Now Cassia is faced with impossible choices: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's know and a path no one else has ever dared follow - between perfection and passion."
If you were placed in a situation where you had to choose between passion and perfection, which would you choose and why?
Personally,with regard to a romantic relationship, I would choose passion over perfection. I am not a "perfect" person by any means, and I don't expect that from a partner. Also, in my mind, this would mean a lack of emotion which would be unacceptable.
2. (Pre reading question) Do you think you could have a long lasting relationship which was based solely on passion/perfection? What are the 'recipes' for a good relationship (in your personal opinion)?
Could I? Yes. Would I want to? No. True, a couple can have a good relationship without passion, but is that the most desirable state of things? Communication, compromise, understanding, wanting what is best for your partner...these are critical for a good relationship.
3. "For the first time in my life, I am allowed to dream of Xander." (Fast forward a few sentences) "I did not dream of Xander. I don't know why."
Do you think that because they are now, matched Cassia feels obligated to love Xander instantly? Are her feelings for him are simply platonic or does she really love him but feels pressured?
I get the feeling she and Xander are best friends, and that she's a little relieved she's been matched with someone she knows so well. I don't think she "loves" him any more than she loves any of her female friends.
4. Of everything I've seen so far the sleeping tags are most unique. Why would the government want to monitor its citizens dreams?
Possibly to make sure no one is planning a rebellion or having their own original thoughts.
5. One has to wonder, if the government compiles enough information to know which dress you'll most likely pick because of "personal data" then why even give the girls the chance to pick? If Cassia picked a dress that wasn't her taste then I wonder if the well oil machine would break down.
Perhaps it's to give the citizens at least a tiny feeling of freedom of choice.
6. So many elements of this book (the 'energy' pills, matching process, job process etc) are reminding of other dystopia books that I've read in the past. Eerie! Am I alone in this?
You're not alone at all. This book is unoriginal in most of its concepts. I consistently had the feeling of been-there, done-that.
7. "Such specialization keeps people from being overwhelmed. We don't need to understand everything."
What is wrong with this ideology?
Everything is wrong with the ideology! Reminds me of how communist countries dictate the culture and censor what they don't want their people to see or hear. This society is controlling the messages people are getting so that the people don't get out of hand and get the crazy idea that maybe there is a better way of life.
8. Cassie sees Kyle's face on her port screen. Do you think he was responsible for this breech in Matched protocol? Seems like we have a rebel on our hands.
I did think that Ky was responsible for putting his picture on the port.
9. "Tomorrow my grandfather will go too."
Somehow I don't think Cassie means going on vacation. Based on context clues do you think this society kill their senior citizens?
Based on The Giver, yes I did think that the society would kill their senior citizens.
Discussion Questions/Comments for Chapters 7 - 10 10. Something just came to mind. Could seeing Ky's face on her port screen be a signal/message to someone else (maybe someone in the government)? Grandfather's reaction to the news made me think. It's like he knew more than he was letting on.
I thought that Ky's face on the port meant that the government was not as in control as it thought. For sure, Grandfather knows a lot more than meets the eye.
11. People in Cassie's society rarely have to worry about unexpected death. They know, for the most part, that they will die on their 80th year after the final banquet. What is one pro and con of this society's method of death?
I suppose the pro and con would be knowing exactly which date you're going to die. I'm not sure how that would make me feel. Would it make me live each day to the fullest? I suppose so, however in the novel's society you pretty much have to do as you're told.
12. Would you want to know the age that you were going to die? Or would you prefer to be oblivious? Based on your answer explain why.
I absolutely don't want to know. It would be too creepy for one thing. Not sure what else to say about that!
13. Cassie thinks the final banquet is a "luxury" and "fair" but I think it's sad that they can't even cry at the loss of their grandfather in the nursing home because it would be viewed as them not handling it well.
I agree. It's very sad.
14. So Laura was partially right in that the government does preserve you...in a sense. [See her answer to question #9]. The society freezes your DNA in hopes of reusing it in the future. What do you guys think of this, creepy or cool?
Creepy for the most part. When society figures out how to do this, will they bring everyone back? Wouldn't that lead to overpopulation?
15. This society has many strange laws but I can understand the logic behind many of them except for the one where you can't share food. What's that about? How does sharing or not sharing food affect the greater good of a society?
I think this is because each person's meal is prepared specifically and exactly for their personal nutritional needs.
16. What were you expecting to be on the paper that grandfather gave Cassie? I certainly did not expect poetry! Were you more surprised or disappointed by the revelation?
I wasn't surprised. Wasn't poetry a subject of interest in Delirium? Poetry evokes passion and other strong emotions, strictly taboo in this society.
17. We got to see a littler more of Ky during today's reading. What do you think of him so far?
I'll refrain from answering this. I'm not sure exactly what the scene is and I don't want to give anything away.
Can someone do today's questions?
I am reading the sequal :D
♥Madilynn♥ wrote: "I am reading the sequal :D"I'll be reading it after this.
I'll try to do today's questions, but I don't have a book so I can't reference anything and I wasn't listening that closely.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 11 - 1518) Do you think Cassia should have destroyed the poem?
19) What did you think of Cassia's father destroying her Grandfather's DNA? Would you have if your father had asked you to? I think they couldn't bring you back but they could create a clone.
20) Did you notice how Xander seemed 'stricken' about Em's (I hope I'm getting the character's name right) matching? Could Xander have hoped Em would have been matched to him? Could he have gotten a faulty Data card as well?
21) There was a description of the flowers being given about how by being hybrids a lot of they variety and hardiness of them was bred out (or some such thing--again sorry I don't have the book and rewinding with a CD is not an easy thing). Do you agree its sounds a little like what they're doing with the people in Cassia's society?
22) Are you surprised Cassia hasn't told Ky he showed up on her data card? Would it be too cruel a thing to do?
23) Did you like how her Grandpa's last words to her were don't be afraid to wonder?
24) Everyone is starting to get their work assignments. What position do you think Cassia will get?
25) Do you think the red pill kills people?
26) What did you think about Em's nervous break down? What exactly are in those pills? Are they addictive? Why aren't abberations given capsules?
27) Why do you think Cassia hasn't confided in Xander, her best friend?
28) Is the cotton wood seed a sign of hope? It kind of reminded me of the truffala trees from Doctor Seuss--If someone cares...
Discussion Questions/Comments for Day 1 1. (Pre reading question) "Now Cassia is faced with impossible choices: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's know and a path no one else has ever dared follow - between perfection and passion."
If you were placed in a situation where you had to choose between passion and perfection, which would you choose and why?
Tough question. I would go with passion. Passion is what drives you to go forward and be your best. Passion is what leads you to perfection. If you're not passionate about something/someone then you won't ever be happy and isn't perfection a result of happiness and everything combined?
2. (Pre reading question) Do you think you could have a long lasting relationship which was based solely on passion/perfection? What are the 'recipes' for a good relationship (in your personal opinion)?
Passion + trust + compassion = good relationship. If you care about someone then they become perfect in your eyes. There is not perfection that they have to strive to be.
3. "For the first time in my life, I am allowed to dream of Xander." (Fast forward a few sentences) "I did not dream of Xander. I don't know why."
Do you think that because they are now, matched Cassia feels obligated to love Xander instantly? Are her feelings for him are simply platonic or does she really love him but feels pressured?
The first sentence has to do with her being unable to dream of Xander because she was not in charge of who she would be matched with until that day. Now that she's finally able to dream of him in that way she has other things on her mind. It also sets up for the whole Ky thing to come.
4. Of everything I've seen so far the sleeping tags are most unique. Why would the government want to monitor its citizens dreams?
A person that dreams or thinks independently is the society's worst nightmare. In order for a society like this to function then every aspect of a person's life must be controlled all the way down to what they dream at night. If someone starts dreaming of something more then the usual and mundane then the officials know that person needs to be watched and may become a problem in the long run.
5. One has to wonder, if the government compiles enough information to know which dress you'll most likely pick because of "personal data" then why even give the girls the chance to pick? If Cassia picked a dress that wasn't her taste then I wonder if the well oil machine would break down.
The choosing of the dress gives the chooser the illusion of free will even if society predicts what they will pick in the end. It also gives society the ability to check and make sure their predictions are still spot on.
6. So many elements of this book (the 'energy' pills, matching process, job process etc) are reminding of other dystopia books that I've read in the past. Eerie! Am I alone in this?
It's your typical utopian novel. It reminds me a lot of The Giver so far with how society chooses your job, your match, and everything else.
7. "Such specialization keeps people from being overwhelmed. We don't need to understand everything."
What is wrong with this ideology?
Specialization is the way to keep people from thinking too much. If one person has only one task in society then they fulfill their purpose and don't question what anyone else is doing. They are one cog in the machine that keeps things moving forward. If one of those cogs learns about multiple jobs then that starts them thinking about the want to choose which one to work on, or combine them, or really anything that uses their brain more then society wants them to. If you think you become a problem therefore society will treat you like a mindless drone and brainwash you to believe that's a good way to live.
8. Cassie sees Kyle's face on her port screen. Do you think he was responsible for this breech in Matched protocol? Seems like we have a rebel on our hands.
I think the officials messed up and Ky would have been Cassie's match had he not been an aberration. Someone forgot to take him out of the system properly or something to that extent.
9. "Tomorrow my grandfather will go too."
Somehow I don't think Cassie means going on vacation. Based on context clues do you think this society kill their senior citizens?
It makes the most sense. Once a person becomes useless in the eyes of society (can't continue their job properly or requires more care then usual) then why keep them around?
Discussion Questions/Comments for Chapters 7 - 10 10. Something just came to mind. Could seeing Ky's face on her port screen be a signal/message to someone else (maybe someone in the government)? Grandfather's reaction to the news made me think. It's like he knew more than he was letting on.
Maybe someone is just trying to say "think for once!" instead of just going with the flow. I don't know.
11. People in Cassie's society rarely have to worry about unexpected death. They know, for the most part, that they will die on their 80th year after the final banquet. What is one pro and con of this society's method of death?
You know when it will happen which is both good and bad. There are no surprises about your future what so ever. You know you won't walk out and be hit by a car. It also takes the spontaneity out of life. No more "live for today" mottos to make you do the unexplainable.
12. Would you want to know the age that you were going to die? Or would you prefer to be oblivious? Based on your answer explain why.
If it's the same for everyone then it's not so bad. If it was different (susie will die on wednesday, and bob will die on the 5th) then it would suck. It's also nice to know exactly how you will die and that it's unchangeable so you're not worried about that aspect of life. But then again, in this society you're not worried about any part of your life so it works. If it was in our society then it would suck because everything in life is so spontaneous and less planned out. There are two many choices and too many factors that go into every decision we make and therefore a death prediction is basically impossible.
13. Cassie thinks the final banquet is a "luxury" and "fair" but I think it's sad that they can't even cry at the loss of their grandfather in the nursing home because it would be viewed as them not handling it well.
If you show emotion then you're human and not the drone that the society is trying to create. Emotion leads to crazy actions which leads to rebellion. You must be a mindless robot!
14. So Laura was partially right in that the government does preserve you...in a sense. [See her answer to question #9]. The society freezes your DNA in hopes of reusing it in the future. What do you guys think of this, creepy or cool?
I think this process is more to make the family and friends of the deceased feel better. It also makes people strive to follow the rules when they are alive because they may be preserved for the future. I don't think anything actually comes of the tissue samples that are sent in. It's a scam to control the masses.
15. This society has many strange laws but I can understand the logic behind many of them except for the one where you can't share food. What's that about? How does sharing or not sharing food affect the greater good of a society?
I think they drug the food of the elderly keeping them subdued. It's also probably how they control the time of death seeing as how there was no shot or anything given to kill them on their 80th bday. It all happens behind the scenes through their food.
16. What were you expecting to be on the paper that grandfather gave Cassie? I certainly did not expect poetry! Were you more surprised or disappointed by the revelation?
With the amount of importance the gpa seemed to put on the 100 poems it didn't really surprise me that it was a poem on the sheet. I don't yet know what the importance of this is though other maybe to make Cassie think for herself and tell her it's ok to break the rules.
17. We got to see a littler more of Ky during today's reading. What do you think of him so far?
I think he has a hard life. He's treated unfairly due to the actions of his father. He was brought into a new society that doesn't accept him fully but likes to pretend they do. I would like to hear more about the place that Ky is from as he has hinted that it's not so great and not as controlled as the society he's in now
Discussion Questions/Comments for Day 1
1. (Pre reading question) If you were placed in a situation where you had to choose between passion and perfection, which would you choose and why?
I consider passion an important part of perfection, but perfection includes other things beyond passion. I'd choose my perfection then. The difficult part here is that perfection is an arbitrarily measure defined by someone else, that might not be mine. Would I trust someone else to choose? Probably no. Would I go with it? Seeing successes around me, probably yes. I know myself a thinking person, but complacent. I reckon it'd have to be a shocking amount of passion to move me.
2.Do you think you could have a long lasting relationship which was based solely on passion/perfection? What are the 'recipes' for a good relationship (in your personal opinion)?
Passion alone would fizzle. Perfection would imply no issues. You know, I would have said perfection would work, but then I imagine it'd turn out boring, so I'll go with: Passion+Comradeship+Compromise+Affection+Care.
3. Do you think that because they are now, matched Cassia feels obligated to love Xander instantly? Are her feelings for him are simply platonic or does she really love him but feels pressured?
So far as this is uttered, it looks like there is a beautiful friendship that could go into more. That Cassia is disappointed at not having dreamed with Xander, more than the fact that she didn't, is what worries me.
4. Of everything I've seen so far the sleeping tags are most unique. Why would the government want to monitor its citizens dreams?
That one freaked me out. Dreams are usually taken as manifestations of the subconscious working out a problem, many a time before the conscious mind recognizes there is one. I'd deeply resent the intrusion.
5. One has to wonder, if the government compiles enough information to know which dress you'll most likely pick because of "personal data" then why even give the girls the chance to pick? If Cassia picked a dress that wasn't her taste then I wonder if the well oil machine would break down.
I liked that. Well, not the part about all the compiled data, but the picking one. Choice is not about how forgone it could be, but about being able to make it. It does beg the question about what happens when your choices don't follow the expected pattern. And then I read Jex opinion and I realized it's just that, an illusion of choice. And at any rate, it's a silly choice. A dress is just a dress.
6. So many elements of this book (the 'energy' pills, matching process, job process etc) are reminding of other dystopia books that I've read in the past. Eerie! Am I alone in this?
So far, the matching theme reminded me a lot of an old book by René Barjavel called "La nuit des temps", same with the pills. The following, intrusiveness, and extensive data of individuals by a society is a common staple of the dystopia genre, but together with repression, are also part of it's definition, so I don't find it strange.
7. "Such specialization keeps people from being overwhelmed. We don't need to understand everything."
What is wrong with this ideology?
Just off bat, it makes you useless without society. But beyond that, it kills curiosity, or at the very least discourages it. Culture and curiosity are the first casualties of a repressive system, so I'm already dreading what the underbelly of this beast will show us.
8. Cassie sees Kyle's face on her port screen. Do you think he was responsible for this breech in Matched protocol?
Bit early to speculate, but it could be that he wanted to lash at his aberration label.
9. "Tomorrow my grandfather will go too."
Somehow I don't think Cassie means going on vacation. Based on context clues do you think this society kill their senior citizens?
Yeah, I do, and from the moment it was first mentioned, it's been niggling at me, making alarm bells sound.
Will post more later ^_^
1. (Pre reading question) If you were placed in a situation where you had to choose between passion and perfection, which would you choose and why?
I consider passion an important part of perfection, but perfection includes other things beyond passion. I'd choose my perfection then. The difficult part here is that perfection is an arbitrarily measure defined by someone else, that might not be mine. Would I trust someone else to choose? Probably no. Would I go with it? Seeing successes around me, probably yes. I know myself a thinking person, but complacent. I reckon it'd have to be a shocking amount of passion to move me.
2.Do you think you could have a long lasting relationship which was based solely on passion/perfection? What are the 'recipes' for a good relationship (in your personal opinion)?
Passion alone would fizzle. Perfection would imply no issues. You know, I would have said perfection would work, but then I imagine it'd turn out boring, so I'll go with: Passion+Comradeship+Compromise+Affection+Care.
3. Do you think that because they are now, matched Cassia feels obligated to love Xander instantly? Are her feelings for him are simply platonic or does she really love him but feels pressured?
So far as this is uttered, it looks like there is a beautiful friendship that could go into more. That Cassia is disappointed at not having dreamed with Xander, more than the fact that she didn't, is what worries me.
4. Of everything I've seen so far the sleeping tags are most unique. Why would the government want to monitor its citizens dreams?
That one freaked me out. Dreams are usually taken as manifestations of the subconscious working out a problem, many a time before the conscious mind recognizes there is one. I'd deeply resent the intrusion.
5. One has to wonder, if the government compiles enough information to know which dress you'll most likely pick because of "personal data" then why even give the girls the chance to pick? If Cassia picked a dress that wasn't her taste then I wonder if the well oil machine would break down.
I liked that. Well, not the part about all the compiled data, but the picking one. Choice is not about how forgone it could be, but about being able to make it. It does beg the question about what happens when your choices don't follow the expected pattern. And then I read Jex opinion and I realized it's just that, an illusion of choice. And at any rate, it's a silly choice. A dress is just a dress.
6. So many elements of this book (the 'energy' pills, matching process, job process etc) are reminding of other dystopia books that I've read in the past. Eerie! Am I alone in this?
So far, the matching theme reminded me a lot of an old book by René Barjavel called "La nuit des temps", same with the pills. The following, intrusiveness, and extensive data of individuals by a society is a common staple of the dystopia genre, but together with repression, are also part of it's definition, so I don't find it strange.
7. "Such specialization keeps people from being overwhelmed. We don't need to understand everything."
What is wrong with this ideology?
Just off bat, it makes you useless without society. But beyond that, it kills curiosity, or at the very least discourages it. Culture and curiosity are the first casualties of a repressive system, so I'm already dreading what the underbelly of this beast will show us.
8. Cassie sees Kyle's face on her port screen. Do you think he was responsible for this breech in Matched protocol?
Bit early to speculate, but it could be that he wanted to lash at his aberration label.
9. "Tomorrow my grandfather will go too."
Somehow I don't think Cassie means going on vacation. Based on context clues do you think this society kill their senior citizens?
Yeah, I do, and from the moment it was first mentioned, it's been niggling at me, making alarm bells sound.
Will post more later ^_^
Discussion Questions/Comments for Chapters 7 - 10
10. Something just came to mind. Could seeing Ky's face on her port screen be a signal/message to someone else (maybe someone in the government)? Grandfather's reaction to the news made me think. It's like he knew more than he was letting on.
I thought it was over the top too. Like he believed someone was messing with her deliberately.
11. People in Cassie's society rarely have to worry about unexpected death. They know, for the most part, that they will die on their 80th year after the final banquet. What is one pro and con of this society's method of death?
The pro would be the reassurance of going about life knowing it's not going to end yet. The con is the same *chuckle*. No uncertainty makes for a steady life, but one where risk is not taken. Also, the fact that it's ruled, you are sentenced, and saying it's old age it's just prettying it.
12. Would you want to know the age that you were going to die? Or would you prefer to be oblivious? Based on your answer explain why.
This question makes me thing of "The Big Fish". I'd like to think I'd be the brave person that would use that knowledge to do anything and everything, reassured that I'll live through it, but it's not the case here. I don't like the part where someone rules it. What if I have more to give, what if I have less, and time drags? Not everyone lives the same, at the same pace, and therefore, we are not ready to go after the same length of time.
13. Cassie thinks the final banquet is a "luxury" and "fair" but I think it's sad that they can't even cry at the loss of their grandfather in the nursing home because it would be viewed as them not handling it well.
I wanted to cry too. Gallows humor has been usual in my family in death beds, but also crying. Someone you love goes. Not being able to mourn is sadder than tears.
14. So Laura was partially right in that the government does preserve you...in a sense. [See her answer to question #9]. The society freezes your DNA in hopes of reusing it in the future. What do you guys think of this, creepy or cool?
This one bothered me when the Official mentioned a preserving at risk over Cassia's secret, and it disturbed me when explained. I just envisioned Aeon Flux (a society mired in a cloning cycle), and yeah... maybe I have too much background where dystopia is concerned, I always go right to the awful in the possibilities, but beyond that, why? For what purpose?
15. This society has many strange laws but I can understand the logic behind many of them except for the one where you can't share food. What's that about? How does sharing or not sharing food affect the greater good of a society?
Well, the part where the grandfather can't share his sounded suspicious to me. My mind screamed poison. As for the rest, "The Island"? Intake controlled to the minute maybe? Beyond the reason, I frowned at the social implications. Sharing a meal is a bonding ritual, and has been from ancient times. It symbolizes trust, and comradeship, peace, time shared, and opens dialogue. It doesn't look like that happens much here.
16. What were you expecting to be on the paper that grandfather gave Cassie? I certainly did not expect poetry! Were you more surprised or disappointed by the revelation?
I expected it. One of the points made about Cassia's grandfather is that his mother sorted the poetry, he mentioned borrowed words, and Cassia has a poetic way of thinking things, that seems strange given her setting. A push from a beloved one would nurture it and give the plot impulse.
17. We got to see a littler more of Ky during today's reading. What do you think of him so far?
He's interesting. Quiet, observant, probably more aware because of an unsheltered past. He blends not out of sameness but cunning. A person like that will question. He's shaping like a good foil for what is to come.
Extra: Chapter 8 was so full of meaning. Cassia is starting to deviate, show real individuality, curiosity, wish for privacy. And Chapter 10! My, how much poetry. She's ready to fly the coup, that girl. Just one little push... I'm enjoying this more than I expected.
10. Something just came to mind. Could seeing Ky's face on her port screen be a signal/message to someone else (maybe someone in the government)? Grandfather's reaction to the news made me think. It's like he knew more than he was letting on.
I thought it was over the top too. Like he believed someone was messing with her deliberately.
11. People in Cassie's society rarely have to worry about unexpected death. They know, for the most part, that they will die on their 80th year after the final banquet. What is one pro and con of this society's method of death?
The pro would be the reassurance of going about life knowing it's not going to end yet. The con is the same *chuckle*. No uncertainty makes for a steady life, but one where risk is not taken. Also, the fact that it's ruled, you are sentenced, and saying it's old age it's just prettying it.
12. Would you want to know the age that you were going to die? Or would you prefer to be oblivious? Based on your answer explain why.
This question makes me thing of "The Big Fish". I'd like to think I'd be the brave person that would use that knowledge to do anything and everything, reassured that I'll live through it, but it's not the case here. I don't like the part where someone rules it. What if I have more to give, what if I have less, and time drags? Not everyone lives the same, at the same pace, and therefore, we are not ready to go after the same length of time.
13. Cassie thinks the final banquet is a "luxury" and "fair" but I think it's sad that they can't even cry at the loss of their grandfather in the nursing home because it would be viewed as them not handling it well.
I wanted to cry too. Gallows humor has been usual in my family in death beds, but also crying. Someone you love goes. Not being able to mourn is sadder than tears.
14. So Laura was partially right in that the government does preserve you...in a sense. [See her answer to question #9]. The society freezes your DNA in hopes of reusing it in the future. What do you guys think of this, creepy or cool?
This one bothered me when the Official mentioned a preserving at risk over Cassia's secret, and it disturbed me when explained. I just envisioned Aeon Flux (a society mired in a cloning cycle), and yeah... maybe I have too much background where dystopia is concerned, I always go right to the awful in the possibilities, but beyond that, why? For what purpose?
15. This society has many strange laws but I can understand the logic behind many of them except for the one where you can't share food. What's that about? How does sharing or not sharing food affect the greater good of a society?
Well, the part where the grandfather can't share his sounded suspicious to me. My mind screamed poison. As for the rest, "The Island"? Intake controlled to the minute maybe? Beyond the reason, I frowned at the social implications. Sharing a meal is a bonding ritual, and has been from ancient times. It symbolizes trust, and comradeship, peace, time shared, and opens dialogue. It doesn't look like that happens much here.
16. What were you expecting to be on the paper that grandfather gave Cassie? I certainly did not expect poetry! Were you more surprised or disappointed by the revelation?
I expected it. One of the points made about Cassia's grandfather is that his mother sorted the poetry, he mentioned borrowed words, and Cassia has a poetic way of thinking things, that seems strange given her setting. A push from a beloved one would nurture it and give the plot impulse.
17. We got to see a littler more of Ky during today's reading. What do you think of him so far?
He's interesting. Quiet, observant, probably more aware because of an unsheltered past. He blends not out of sameness but cunning. A person like that will question. He's shaping like a good foil for what is to come.
Extra: Chapter 8 was so full of meaning. Cassia is starting to deviate, show real individuality, curiosity, wish for privacy. And Chapter 10! My, how much poetry. She's ready to fly the coup, that girl. Just one little push... I'm enjoying this more than I expected.
AHHH! Geeez! I'm at the book-burn part, and it aches!
This!: "The books' backs are broken; their bones, thin and delicate, fall out. The workers shove them toward the incineration tube; they step on them. The bones crackle under their boots like leaves. It reminds me of fall, when the City brings around the incineration equipment to our neighborhoods and we shovel the fal en maple leaves into the tubes."
*shudders*
This!: "The books' backs are broken; their bones, thin and delicate, fall out. The workers shove them toward the incineration tube; they step on them. The bones crackle under their boots like leaves. It reminds me of fall, when the City brings around the incineration equipment to our neighborhoods and we shovel the fal en maple leaves into the tubes."
*shudders*
Zanahoria (Taly) wrote: "AHHH! Geeez! I'm at the book-burn part, and it aches!This!: "The books' backs are broken; their bones, thin and delicate, fall out. The workers shove them toward the incineration tube; they step ..."
It sounds a little like what Hitler did. Only select books were allowed to be kept. If you think about it it's something that's happened time and time again. They know some of the ancient Egyptian history was attempted to be rewritten by rulers who wanted to scratch out the name from history of their predecessors. It makes things easier to managed if you can adjust things to your liking.
Isn't if funny how just the thought of burning books hurts?
I know. Hits close to home. Around the 70's we had about a decade of repressive military governments. There were hosts of movies cut and banned, and books taken from libraries and prohibited, so I don't really need to get back to Hitler.
What shook me was the description. The humanization. It feels so much like that sometimes, it's interesting when an author gets it. And yeah, books being burned raises in me some kind of empathy, it pains and enrages me. Probably because I feel them alive.
What shook me was the description. The humanization. It feels so much like that sometimes, it's interesting when an author gets it. And yeah, books being burned raises in me some kind of empathy, it pains and enrages me. Probably because I feel them alive.
Again I don't have the book so please bear with what I remember reading.Questions/Comments for Chapters 16 - 20
28) What do you think of the fact writing has been eliminated? They are attempting to make cursive a thing of the past in our schools. Do you think eventually typing will be the only means of writing in our society as it is in Cassia's?
29) What do you make of Ky's story?
30) What do you think of Cassia's jealousy of Libby? Were you surprised to know Ky knew she was jealous and that he liked it?
31) What did you make of the date with Xander?
32) Why do you think they took everyone's artifacts?
33) Do you think Xander knew the compass was Ky's?
34) If the error on Cassia's data card hadn't popped up Ky's picture do you think she'd have ever noticed him? Do you think part of what she feels for Ky is sympathy because she knows he will never be matched and not by choice? Do you think she would have ever questioned the Society if the error never happened?
35) Why do you think Ky throws the games?
36) Does it seem strange that Cassia's mom is going on such a long trip? Is something changing in the Society? It just seemed strange that they starting collecting artifacts and all.
37) Do you think Xander suspects that something is going on between Cassia and Ky?
Questions and comments for 11 - 15
18) Do you think Cassia should have destroyed the poem?
It's not the paper, but the words. It's sad, her motivation is sad too, but since she keeps the words inside her the paper's work is done. Like in Farenheit, it's not the book, it's what can be found inside, the substance, that can be found in many things, reach into us and make home there.
19) What did you think of Cassia's father destroying her Grandfather's DNA? Would you have if your father had asked you to?
I'd do it. My grandfather insist he'll "die in his law" (it doesn't translate exactly), and keeps working as if he was half his age. He'd sooner end himself early than be stuck to a bed. He'd ask us for help if he couldn't. I'd follow that wish even if my heart broke, so yeah, I'd accept if a loved one chose not to be made a glorified copy. It'd break my heart.
20) Did you notice how Xander seemed 'stricken' about Em's (I hope I'm getting the character's name right) matching? Could Xander have hoped Em would have been matched to him? Could he have gotten a faulty Data card as well?
I think there could be some affection there, and that while Em's match may be it, if Xander is close enough, and known, it'd be natural that they get together. If there is something underfoot, then Xander should have been hers, but since he got matched before, instead at the same time as Em's... This was one of the things bothering me: what happens when the person you belong with is of a different age?
21) There was a description of the flowers being given about how by being hybrids a lot of they variety and hardiness of them was bred out (or some such thing--again sorry I don't have the book and rewinding with a CD is not an easy thing). Do you agree its sounds a little like what they're doing with the people in Cassia's society?
Yes, it does. And it actually happens with plants today, specially those for consumption (you know, the whole transgenic debate). It's efficient, but things are lost. And there is something very cold about efficiency in what ought to be a flower grown for pleasure. The parallel to people just makes it colder.
22) Are you surprised Cassia hasn't told Ky he showed up on her data card? Would it be too cruel a thing to do?
I think she hasn't told him because she herself doesn't know yet what it was that about. At first it could have been just compassion, but now she's gotten curious about him and I don't think she'll share until she realizes where she's wanting to go.
23) Did you like how her Grandpa's last words to her were don't be afraid to wonder?
I like it, and also, it firms the idea that gampa knows more than he lets on. It looks like a perilous directive, given the environment.
24) Everyone is starting to get their work assignments. What position do you think Cassia will get?
Sorting for Matches. It'd be perfectly ironic.
25) Do you think the red pill kills people?
Blue pill, red pill. I wonder. It sounds extreme and yet it very well could be. Or maybe a doper? Mind-whipper?
26) What did you think about Em's nervous break down? What exactly are in those pills? Are they addictive? Why aren't aberrations given capsules?
Beyond dependency, I think when you are helped from outside your body you loose the edge on your ability to cope, you cease to exercise your emotional checks.
As for aberrations, on one side, you could say they don't give them the pills as a way of underlining subtly the scorn, telling them they are not considered responsible and autonomous. On the other, Cassia's grandfather tells her not to depend on them, so maybe it's about denying before being denied, not giving the person strong enough to go without them the opportunity to realize they are able without the assistance. And maybe fall for curiosity and study them while on hand.
27) Why do you think Cassia hasn't confided in Xander, her best friend?
Trust. I think she likes him and is comfortable around him more than she trusts him. Doesn't want to rock the boat. And hasn't yet consciously realized that she'd wavering. Wondering.
28) Is the cotton wood seed a sign of hope? It kind of reminded me of the truffala trees from Doctor Seuss--If someone cares...
I thought it was about hope, curiosity, imagination and creativity. Ultimately, freedom. You squash it, burn it, tear it out and down, and still it'll come back, renewed, somewhere, somehow.
Hey, anyone else noticed the subtle signs of discontent around? The father that said knowing the matched was very fortunate, the workers that need more watching over than the students, the hike instructor muttering about quotas...
18) Do you think Cassia should have destroyed the poem?
It's not the paper, but the words. It's sad, her motivation is sad too, but since she keeps the words inside her the paper's work is done. Like in Farenheit, it's not the book, it's what can be found inside, the substance, that can be found in many things, reach into us and make home there.
19) What did you think of Cassia's father destroying her Grandfather's DNA? Would you have if your father had asked you to?
I'd do it. My grandfather insist he'll "die in his law" (it doesn't translate exactly), and keeps working as if he was half his age. He'd sooner end himself early than be stuck to a bed. He'd ask us for help if he couldn't. I'd follow that wish even if my heart broke, so yeah, I'd accept if a loved one chose not to be made a glorified copy. It'd break my heart.
20) Did you notice how Xander seemed 'stricken' about Em's (I hope I'm getting the character's name right) matching? Could Xander have hoped Em would have been matched to him? Could he have gotten a faulty Data card as well?
I think there could be some affection there, and that while Em's match may be it, if Xander is close enough, and known, it'd be natural that they get together. If there is something underfoot, then Xander should have been hers, but since he got matched before, instead at the same time as Em's... This was one of the things bothering me: what happens when the person you belong with is of a different age?
21) There was a description of the flowers being given about how by being hybrids a lot of they variety and hardiness of them was bred out (or some such thing--again sorry I don't have the book and rewinding with a CD is not an easy thing). Do you agree its sounds a little like what they're doing with the people in Cassia's society?
Yes, it does. And it actually happens with plants today, specially those for consumption (you know, the whole transgenic debate). It's efficient, but things are lost. And there is something very cold about efficiency in what ought to be a flower grown for pleasure. The parallel to people just makes it colder.
22) Are you surprised Cassia hasn't told Ky he showed up on her data card? Would it be too cruel a thing to do?
I think she hasn't told him because she herself doesn't know yet what it was that about. At first it could have been just compassion, but now she's gotten curious about him and I don't think she'll share until she realizes where she's wanting to go.
23) Did you like how her Grandpa's last words to her were don't be afraid to wonder?
I like it, and also, it firms the idea that gampa knows more than he lets on. It looks like a perilous directive, given the environment.
24) Everyone is starting to get their work assignments. What position do you think Cassia will get?
Sorting for Matches. It'd be perfectly ironic.
25) Do you think the red pill kills people?
Blue pill, red pill. I wonder. It sounds extreme and yet it very well could be. Or maybe a doper? Mind-whipper?
26) What did you think about Em's nervous break down? What exactly are in those pills? Are they addictive? Why aren't aberrations given capsules?
Beyond dependency, I think when you are helped from outside your body you loose the edge on your ability to cope, you cease to exercise your emotional checks.
As for aberrations, on one side, you could say they don't give them the pills as a way of underlining subtly the scorn, telling them they are not considered responsible and autonomous. On the other, Cassia's grandfather tells her not to depend on them, so maybe it's about denying before being denied, not giving the person strong enough to go without them the opportunity to realize they are able without the assistance. And maybe fall for curiosity and study them while on hand.
27) Why do you think Cassia hasn't confided in Xander, her best friend?
Trust. I think she likes him and is comfortable around him more than she trusts him. Doesn't want to rock the boat. And hasn't yet consciously realized that she'd wavering. Wondering.
28) Is the cotton wood seed a sign of hope? It kind of reminded me of the truffala trees from Doctor Seuss--If someone cares...
I thought it was about hope, curiosity, imagination and creativity. Ultimately, freedom. You squash it, burn it, tear it out and down, and still it'll come back, renewed, somewhere, somehow.
Hey, anyone else noticed the subtle signs of discontent around? The father that said knowing the matched was very fortunate, the workers that need more watching over than the students, the hike instructor muttering about quotas...
Zanahoria (Taly) wrote: "Hey, anyone else noticed the subtle signs of discontent around? The father that said knowing the matched was very fortunate, the workers that need more watching over than the students, the hike instructor muttering about quotas..."Maybe that's also what the cottonwood seed is supposed to represent--the seeds of discontent? Yes, I noticed not everything is as 'perfect' as it appears at first glance.
Discontent? Interesting. Fits too. I just associated towards lighter because it looked so sweet.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 16 - 20
28) What do you think of the fact writing has been eliminated? They are attempting to make cursive a thing of the past in our schools. Do you think eventually typing will be the only means of writing in our society as it is in Cassia?
Sadly, I find myself struggling with cursive while writing. It was always abysmal, so I changed to imprint around high-school. I can see cursive getting used less and less. But about why would you limit it, well, tracking what a person writes in a Pc is very simple. It's also structured. Writing on paper is very tied to doodling, and drawing too, so it ties it even more to fancy and imagination. Cassias society obviously frown upon anything that creates instead of recycle what's there.
29) What do you make of Ky's story?
Sad, and beautifully expressed in those tidbits. I can see the drawings.
30) What do you make of Cassia's jealousy of Libby? Were you surprised to know he knew she was jealous?
I was surprised Cassia is aware enough of herself to admit it.
31) What did you make of the date with Xander?
Infinitely Bland. Right now, it's like a study in contrast when put between the encounters with Ky.
32) Why do you think they took everyone's artifacts?
You know, it feels like an experiment. Like a building pressure. Less food, no mum, no artifact, tests, more vigilance. And that woman that came to "fix" the card misunderstanding being overly reassuring. I don't know. I'm getting suspicious.
33) Do you think Xander knew the compass was Ky's?
He certainly is paying Ky extra attention. He seems intelligent. He might suspect.
34) If the error on Cassia's data card hadn't popped up Ky's picture do you think she'd have ever noticed him? Do you think part of what she feels for Ky is sympathy because she knows he will never be matched and not by choice? Do you think she would have ever questioned the Society if the error never happened?
That's the issue, isn't it? I believe the photo started the interest. But it's not feeding it. Most relationships, be friendships, romances, or the opposite, start with a little interesting thing, a spark. The point is that even if Cassia wouldn't have taken interest in Ky again (there was the swimming pool incident) if not for the glitch, now that it happened she's pursuing it for reasons beyond it, and even despite it.
Would she have questioned her surrounding rules? Maybe not on the Matching, but she had the mind-setting to wonder. And then a grandfather that told her it was alright to. I think she'd have gotten to the doubting part.
35) Why do you think Ky throws the games?
To blend. I don't think he wants to be sorted, and lulled into the society.
36) Does it seem strange that Cassia's mom is going on such a long trip? Is something changing in the Society? It just seemed strange that they starting collecting artifacts and all.
I wavering between believing things are going to the gutter, and that Cassia is under a massive, cruel, social experiment. One that her parents (and her grandfather) are aware of.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 16 - 20
28) What do you think of the fact writing has been eliminated? They are attempting to make cursive a thing of the past in our schools. Do you think eventually typing will be the only means of writing in our society as it is in Cassia?
Sadly, I find myself struggling with cursive while writing. It was always abysmal, so I changed to imprint around high-school. I can see cursive getting used less and less. But about why would you limit it, well, tracking what a person writes in a Pc is very simple. It's also structured. Writing on paper is very tied to doodling, and drawing too, so it ties it even more to fancy and imagination. Cassias society obviously frown upon anything that creates instead of recycle what's there.
29) What do you make of Ky's story?
Sad, and beautifully expressed in those tidbits. I can see the drawings.
30) What do you make of Cassia's jealousy of Libby? Were you surprised to know he knew she was jealous?
I was surprised Cassia is aware enough of herself to admit it.
31) What did you make of the date with Xander?
Infinitely Bland. Right now, it's like a study in contrast when put between the encounters with Ky.
32) Why do you think they took everyone's artifacts?
You know, it feels like an experiment. Like a building pressure. Less food, no mum, no artifact, tests, more vigilance. And that woman that came to "fix" the card misunderstanding being overly reassuring. I don't know. I'm getting suspicious.
33) Do you think Xander knew the compass was Ky's?
He certainly is paying Ky extra attention. He seems intelligent. He might suspect.
34) If the error on Cassia's data card hadn't popped up Ky's picture do you think she'd have ever noticed him? Do you think part of what she feels for Ky is sympathy because she knows he will never be matched and not by choice? Do you think she would have ever questioned the Society if the error never happened?
That's the issue, isn't it? I believe the photo started the interest. But it's not feeding it. Most relationships, be friendships, romances, or the opposite, start with a little interesting thing, a spark. The point is that even if Cassia wouldn't have taken interest in Ky again (there was the swimming pool incident) if not for the glitch, now that it happened she's pursuing it for reasons beyond it, and even despite it.
Would she have questioned her surrounding rules? Maybe not on the Matching, but she had the mind-setting to wonder. And then a grandfather that told her it was alright to. I think she'd have gotten to the doubting part.
35) Why do you think Ky throws the games?
To blend. I don't think he wants to be sorted, and lulled into the society.
36) Does it seem strange that Cassia's mom is going on such a long trip? Is something changing in the Society? It just seemed strange that they starting collecting artifacts and all.
I wavering between believing things are going to the gutter, and that Cassia is under a massive, cruel, social experiment. One that her parents (and her grandfather) are aware of.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 11 - 1518) Do you think Cassia should have destroyed the poem?
I am conflicted. It was dangerous to keep it around and she does remember most of it, so I think it served it's purpose.
19) What did you think of Cassia's father destroying her Grandfather's DNA? Would you have if your father had asked you to? I think they couldn't bring you back but they could create a clone.
I think it was the right thing to do. It was his wish, and that wish should have been respected. But it did put him in a bad position.
20) Did you notice how Xander seemed 'stricken' about Em's (I hope I'm getting the character's name right) matching? Could Xander have hoped Em would have been matched to him? Could he have gotten a faulty Data card as well?
I think it may have been seeing Cassia's reaction to her matching. She was more excited than for her own, and he clearly has deep feelings about her. I feel bad for Xander, Cassia doesn't seem to give a crap about him at all lol.
21) There was a description of the flowers being given about how by being hybrids a lot of they variety and hardiness of them was bred out (or some such thing--again sorry I don't have the book and rewinding with a CD is not an easy thing). Do you agree its sounds a little like what they're doing with the people in Cassia's society?
I think so. Anyone who presents a potential problem to their little utopia is branded a troublemaker. They only want people who will conform and not ask any questions.
22) Are you surprised Cassia hasn't told Ky he showed up on her data card? Would it be too cruel a thing to do?
I think she might still tell him, but only when she is absolutely sure she can trust him.
23) Did you like how her Grandpa's last words to her were don't be afraid to wonder?
It was very sweet, and inspiring I think. Cassia has been a perfect little robot character until that moment.
24) Everyone is starting to get their work assignments. What position do you think Cassia will get?
I have a feeling it will be something important based on the test thing. But I still don't understand this sorting business. What exactly are the doing? What patterns are they looking for? What's the point? What does it have to do with their work assignment? I'm frustrated with the world building in this book.
25) Do you think the red pill kills people?
Maybe. If we hear any more about Ky's depth filled eyes I'll try one and let you know how it goes lol
26) What did you think about Em's nervous break down? What exactly are in those pills? Are they addictive? Why aren't abberations given capsules?
I think it's another way to gauge who is potentially going to cause a problem. Take too many of X pill and you might be unstable, and we can't have that.
27) Why do you think Cassia hasn't confided in Xander, her best friend?
Honestly this is the most irritating aspect of this book. He's supposedly her best friend but we know NOTHING about him because she's too busy fawning over Ky all the time. The only time she shows any interest in Xander is if she needs his help with something.
28) Is the cotton wood seed a sign of hope? It kind of reminded me of the truffala trees from Doctor Seuss--If someone cares...
I think it might be a sign of freedom. The cottonwood seed has to fly and be free before it can plant itself somewhere safe and grow into a tree.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 16 - 2028) What do you think of the fact writing has been eliminated? They are attempting to make cursive a thing of the past in our schools. Do you think eventually typing will be the only means of writing in our society as it is in Cassia's?
This absolutely baffles me. If anyone can explain this to me, I'll give you a cookie, or pie, or ice cream, or something else nice! How is it possible that all of these people can read, but not write. If you can understand and comprehend language in a written form, then you know how to write it yourself. You know what the words mean and what they look like...how can you not write it?
29) What do you make of Ky's story?
I feel really bad for him. I want to know the full story.
30) What do you think of Cassia's jealousy of Libby? Were you surprised to know Ky knew she was jealous and that he liked it?
Well, Ky is a guy...of course he's flattered that girls are jealous over his attention. The more Cassia shows this obvious preference for Ky, the more I start to dislike her.
31) What did you make of the date with Xander?
Could anything be less romantic or sweet? It kind of seemed like she was on a date with her brother lol
32) Why do you think they took everyone's artifacts?
I have a feeling that something is going on and people are getting riled up somewhere. Taking artifacts is way of disengaging people from their past.
33) Do you think Xander knew the compass was Ky's?
I think so. If I was him it would be SO painfully obvious that I was beneath Ky in Cassia's eyes, who else would it belong to?
34) If the error on Cassia's data card hadn't popped up Ky's picture do you think she'd have ever noticed him? Do you think part of what she feels for Ky is sympathy because she knows he will never be matched and not by choice? Do you think she would have ever questioned the Society if the error never happened?
No, yes, and no. If he hadn't shown up on the data card, I think he would have continued to be that guy who hung around with the rest of her friend that she vaguely took notice of.
35) Why do you think Ky throws the games?
I think he's trying not to draw attention to himself. I think he has a larger plan and doesn't want to draw attention to that or his activities.
36) Does it seem strange that Cassia's mom is going on such a long trip? Is something changing in the Society? It just seemed strange that they starting collecting artifacts and all.
Something is going on, but I can't really put my finger on what it is. But I very much doubt it was a coincidence that Cassia's mom was gone at the same time the artifacts got taken.
37) Do you think Xander suspects that something is going on between Cassia and Ky?
How can he not? Cassia barely treats him like a friend and keeps looking longingly for Ky everywhere they go and gazing into his eyes all the time. I feel really sorry for poor Xander.
Stefani wrote: 25) Do you think the red pill kills people? Maybe. If we hear any more about Ky's depth filled eyes I'll try one and let you know how it goes lol"
Lol, loved that. I found it interesting the first time. Now it is getting a wee bit trite.
Lol, loved that. I found it interesting the first time. Now it is getting a wee bit trite.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 11 - 1518) Do you think Cassia should have destroyed the poem?
I thought she should have just kept it where it was hidden in the compact.
19) What did you think of Cassia's father destroying her Grandfather's DNA? Would you have if your father had asked you to? I think they couldn't bring you back but they could create a clone.
If my father asked me to, I am sure I would have.
I think Cassia's father did it in order to follow his father's wishes, and also to exercise a modicum of free will. I never thought about the cloning, but you're right, that's a great idea!
20) Did you notice how Xander seemed 'stricken' about Em's (I hope I'm getting the character's name right) matching? Could Xander have hoped Em would have been matched to him? Could he have gotten a faulty Data card as well?
I don't remember this specifically, but I suppose Xander could have gotten a faulty data card. Would be interested if they all did but nobody was sharing that information.
21) There was a description of the flowers being given about how by being hybrids a lot of they variety and hardiness of them was bred out (or some such thing--again sorry I don't have the book and rewinding with a CD is not an easy thing). Do you agree its sounds a little like what they're doing with the people in Cassia's society?
Yes, that's a great analogy. The people are being bred to be perfect specimens of what the Society wants.
22) Are you surprised Cassia hasn't told Ky he showed up on her data card? Would it be too cruel a thing to do?
I am surprised, but I thought she would tell him eventually. There are 2 other books to go. :-)
Did you like how her Grandpa's last words to her were don't be afraid to wonder?
Yes, I did, but then again, he's encouraging her to be rebellious which can be very dangerous for her and her family.
24) Everyone is starting to get their work assignments. What position do you think Cassia will get?
Some kind of boring sorting job.
25) Do you think the red pill kills people?
Yes, that was my first thought about the red pills.
26) What did you think about Em's nervous break down? What exactly are in those pills? Are they addictive? Why aren't abberations given capsules?
I think the green pills are like Xanax to calm them down. I think aberrations aren't given capsules because the Society doesn't really care that much about their well-being.
Why do you think Cassia hasn't confided in Xander, her best friend?
Perhaps she feels if she tells him, he will start to believe that she has feelings for Ky instead of him.
Is the cotton wood seed a sign of hope? It kind of reminded me of the truffala trees from Doctor Seuss--If someone cares...
Yes, I thought it was a sign that there is something better (something good) out there waiting to be grabbed.
18. No. If it stayed concealed there for all those years it was probably a good hiding spot.19. I would definitely have done it if I knew it is what my dad wanted.
20. Unman I didn't think of this but both of these scenarios are quite possible.
21. YES! I didn't think of that analogy but I think it is exactly like that now that you have pointed that out.
22. Yes I am surprised only because I know I would never be able to keep that secret. I think she will tell him eventually.
23. Yes because it means a lot but at the same time it forces her to come to terms with what he is telling her in her own way and at her own pace.
24. They were impressed with her tests results so maybe an official position like her grandfather.
25. That's what I originally thought but I think it could be a multitude of things. We will have to see. I'm sure we will find out.
26. I think there is a reason her grandfather talked her out of taking them. Maybe its addiction or maybe something else but I'm pretty sure it is a negative effect.
27. I think she is scared it will make him wonder if they are meant to be together too. That will put her outside of her comfort zone.
28. Yes.
Dq's will be up a littler later tonight. I'm slightly behind the pace.
Sashana wrote: "Dq's will be up a littler later tonight. I'm slightly behind the pace."Looking forward to it!
Now I have a question for the group at large. Am I the only one having an impossible time liking Cassia? I'm having a hard time enjoying the story at all because I spend half the time yelling at her lol.
Stefani wrote: "Sashana wrote: "Now I have a question for the group at large. Am I the only one having an impossibl..."I don't particularly like or dislike her. As protagonists go, she isn't very memorable. When I think of female protagonist in YA dystopia I expect the likes of Katniss Everdeen. What don't you like about her, Stefani?
Sashana wrote: "What don't you like about her, Stefani?"Mostly I think she is lacking any depth at all. The first half of the story she's the perfect little Society robot. Then she sees Ky with his depth filled, mysterious, color changing eyes and suddenly she wants to be a rebel...to be with him. She supposedly loves Xander but spends most of her time ignoring him and fantasizing about Ky.
Then in today's reading...she made a decision about Ky with the sorting that favored him specifically. AFTER SHE WAS INFORMED THEY WERE WATCHING HER INTERACTIONS WITH HIM! Is she trying to get him killed? I just, I find her to be a completely brainless twit lol.
Stefani wrote: "Sashana wrote: "What don't you like about her, Stefani?"Mostly I think she is lacking any depth at all. The first half of the story she's the perfect little Society robot. Then she sees Ky with..."
I kind of see her has someone awakening from a fog. These people are like robots who've been programmed all their lives. She's slowly starting to grow and think for herself, although she does appear to be easily influenced. She's naive to the extreme, but I think that kind of fits with the story. She's had her whole life plotted out from little on. There were no surprises and now she's being thrown one surprise after another. I look at it from the view point that she has room to grow. A lot of room. I can't wait to see what she's like in book 2. She needs to be deprogrammed.
The part about the eyes that has been done to the cliché's death and back. Devise aside, I didn't think Cassia's turn was sudden.
Actually, I liked reading the eroding process from brainwashed girl to "this bothers me but it's for good" to "hey, not everything is perfect, but better than" to "I don't concur but others do, and I love my family" to "We should be able to choose".
Katniss was made of awesome, but we entered her story when she'd already dismissed the rules out of self-preservation. I reckon it might have been another thing to follow her thought process as she watched her mom waste till she decided to start hunting. Cassia is average, but she still is not questioning her foundations when we come into her story. She's the trained eyes that show us her society. I thought it was a good world-building tool, and it gave us glimpses into those characteristics of hers that made her fertile ground to rebel.
Actually, I liked reading the eroding process from brainwashed girl to "this bothers me but it's for good" to "hey, not everything is perfect, but better than" to "I don't concur but others do, and I love my family" to "We should be able to choose".
Katniss was made of awesome, but we entered her story when she'd already dismissed the rules out of self-preservation. I reckon it might have been another thing to follow her thought process as she watched her mom waste till she decided to start hunting. Cassia is average, but she still is not questioning her foundations when we come into her story. She's the trained eyes that show us her society. I thought it was a good world-building tool, and it gave us glimpses into those characteristics of hers that made her fertile ground to rebel.
Lisarenee wrote: "I kind of see her has someone awakening from a fog.... "
Yes! All that! You posted exactly what I wanted to say while I was writing :D
Yes! All that! You posted exactly what I wanted to say while I was writing :D
Discussion Questions and Comments for Chapters 21 - 26
38. In Cassie's society they have a Hundread Poems, Songs, Art, History etc preserved from the past. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, and song from the present (or past) to be preserved for the future what would they be? No cheating! You can only select one item for each category.
39. Cassie noticed a shortage of Officials in the game room, there were extra patrols in the boroughs, and her mom went on a mysterious work trip. What do you think is happening? I'm thinking that there might be something (like a riot) going on in the outer provinces and the government is trying to contain it.
40. Ky says he isn't an anomaly "yet". Do you think this was just bitterness because of his circumstances or could he be involved in something else all together?
41. What do you think of Cassie's meeting with the Official who talked to her about her relationship with Ky? Was it wise for her to say that she thinks that people should be able to choose who they are matched with?
42. The Official said that Cassie didn't commit an infraction and that that part of the announcement was a mistake. This is the second accident that involved Cassie, do you think someone is setting her up? Or were these mistakes purely coincidental?
43. I didn't expect Cassie's mother to say that the warning (cutting down the trees) were meant for her! Between Cassie, her mother, and father I'm surprised the family isn't an aberration yet.
44. Cassie and Ky are still progressing with their relationship even though they are being watched. If you were in Cassie's situation what would you differently? The same?
45. Where do you think Ky is getting his information? He knew about the archivist and fake singers. How is he acquiring this knowledge when he has such a low status in the society? How did he manage to get the birthday poem without giving away his artifact? Could Ky be a spy of some sort? He has a lot on Intel.
46. Do you think it was wise of Cassie to sort Kyle into the higher group? Surly the society has data that will tell them what she did. Do you think she will be punished for this or will her tampering go unnoticed?
Discussion Questions and Comments for Chapters 21 - 2638. In Cassie's society they have a Hundread Poems, Songs, Art, History etc preserved from the past. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, and song from the present (or past) to be preserved for the future what would they be? No cheating! You can only select one item for each category.
For book, that's tough. I think I'd want Ancestor by Scott Sigler, no matter how many times I read it it's fantastic every time. Movie, probably The Hunger Games movie, I went to see it 4 times at the theater and have seen it another 2 times since...I still love it. Song, I really don't know, I don't listen to much music but probably something by Chopin, I just don't know which one since I love all of them.
39. Cassie noticed a shortage of Officials in the game room, there were extra patrols in the boroughs, and her mom went on a mysterious work trip. What do you think is happening? I'm thinking that there might be something (like a riot) going on in the outer provinces and the government is trying to contain it.
I think they might feel they are losing control of the Aberrations. If the Aberrations are what I suspect, that they have a tendency toward rebellion then they are like the ticking time bomb.
40. Ky says he isn't an anomaly "yet". Do you think this was just bitterness because of his circumstances or could he be involved in something else all together?
I think that once they lose control of an Aberration they "disappear" as an Anomaly. I think he honestly thinks that's coming his way in the future.
41. What do you think of Cassie's meeting with the Official who talked to her about her relationship with Ky? Was it wise for her to say that she thinks that people should be able to choose who they are matched with?
That was a very dumb move, this woman is NOT on your side, this woman tells you that they are watching you and keeping an eye on you. In that circumstance you keep your mouth shut on slanderous opinions, those only go to people you can trust.
42. The Official said that Cassie didn't commit an infraction and that that part of the announcement was a mistake. This is the second accident that involved Cassie, do you think someone is setting her up? Or were these mistakes purely coincidental?
I think it was a warning rather than a mistake. That this time it was a friendly chat, but it won't be next time.
43. I didn't expect Cassie's mother to say that the warning (cutting down the trees) were meant for her! Between Cassie, her mother, and father I'm surprised the family isn't an aberration yet.
I am wondering why her mother thinks it was for her...if they don't explain that I will be highly disappointed.
44. Cassie and Ky are still progressing with their relationship even though they are being watched. If you were in Cassie's situation what would you differently? The same?
I don't understand what she's doing. Somehow it's obvious to everyone but her that they are watching them in the woods...everywhere else they have been distant but friendly. The ONLY way to make the connection with them is the woods, how does she not see that? I dunno.
45. Where do you think Ky is getting his information? He knew about the archivist and fake singers. How is he acquiring this knowledge when he has such a low status in the society? How did he manage to get the birthday poem without giving away his artifact? Could Ky be a spy of some sort? He has a lot on Intel.
I think it has to do with being an Aberration. Obviously the Society doesn't really treat you that well, it's more likely to have you start wondering and poking around for information.
46. Do you think it was wise of Cassie to sort Kyle into the higher group? Surly the society has data that will tell them what she did. Do you think she will be punished for this or will her tampering go unnoticed?
It was very unwise, but that isn't surprising me from her lol. She knows for a fact they are watching both of them and she makes such a blatant move to favor him. It's going to be punished, I have no doubt about it, and she'll have no one to blame but herself.
I couldn't resist, and finished the book last night, so I'll probably have skip any question that calls for speculation, but here:
Discussion Questions and Comments for Chapters 21 - 26
38. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, and song from the present (or past) to be preserved for the future what would they be?
I remember wondering when I read Farenheit 451. Today I'd say that book (hey, if culture is to be destroyed, what better to keep that a book that warns you about it?), "If" by Kipling for poems, "Green Fried Tomatoes" for movies, "Black Bird" for music (I like McLachlan's version best though :D)
Funnily enough, they all have a "be true, be strong" undercurrent.
41. What do you think of Cassie's meeting with the Official who talked to her about her relationship with Ky? Was it wise for her to say that she thinks that people should be able to choose who they are matched with?
That surprised me actually. I didn't think she'd have the temerity, but more than that, I didn't think she already realized that's what she wanted for everyone, beyond her wanting Ky.
42. The Official said that Cassie didn't commit an infraction and that that part of the announcement was a mistake. This is the second accident that involved Cassie, do you think someone is setting her up? Or were these mistakes purely coincidental?
I thought it was a very effective warning.
43. I didn't expect Cassie's mother to say that the warning (cutting down the trees) were meant for her! Between Cassie, her mother, and father I'm surprised the family isn't an aberration yet.
*chuckle* I found it ironic, and also sad. It spoke of miscommunication, out of love and protectiveness, but still. Everyone doing things without letting the rest know, and panic running rampant.
44. Cassie and Ky are still progressing with their relationship even though they are being watched. If you were in Cassie's situation what would you differently? The same?
This question was somewhat raised in the pre-reading, and I said no, I'd decline. Thing is, they aren't leaping, they are borrowing time, and I'd do that. Like the characters show us, that is a slippery slope, where at any moment leaping might be worth it. I'm not a person that let's herself fall madly in love, so it'd have to take me very much by surprise to risk my whole way of life and family for it.
45. Where do you think Ky is getting his information? He knew about the archivist and fake singers. How is he acquiring this knowledge when he has such a low status in the society? How did he manage to get the birthday poem without giving away his artifact? Could Ky be a spy of some sort? He has a lot on Intel.
I thought it was about living in the edges. It's not unusual to know about illegal resources when the legal ones are harder to accede to.
46. Do you think it was wise of Cassie to sort Kyle into the higher group? Surly the society has data that will tell them what she did. Do you think she will be punished for this or will her tampering go unnoticed?
That felt like a "Damned if you do, damned if you don't" scenario. I remember thinking, even disregarding the die young factor, that we don't know which half would be the one getting shafted, so yeah, very silly, and calls for attention.
Discussion Questions and Comments for Chapters 21 - 26
38. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, and song from the present (or past) to be preserved for the future what would they be?
I remember wondering when I read Farenheit 451. Today I'd say that book (hey, if culture is to be destroyed, what better to keep that a book that warns you about it?), "If" by Kipling for poems, "Green Fried Tomatoes" for movies, "Black Bird" for music (I like McLachlan's version best though :D)
Funnily enough, they all have a "be true, be strong" undercurrent.
41. What do you think of Cassie's meeting with the Official who talked to her about her relationship with Ky? Was it wise for her to say that she thinks that people should be able to choose who they are matched with?
That surprised me actually. I didn't think she'd have the temerity, but more than that, I didn't think she already realized that's what she wanted for everyone, beyond her wanting Ky.
42. The Official said that Cassie didn't commit an infraction and that that part of the announcement was a mistake. This is the second accident that involved Cassie, do you think someone is setting her up? Or were these mistakes purely coincidental?
I thought it was a very effective warning.
43. I didn't expect Cassie's mother to say that the warning (cutting down the trees) were meant for her! Between Cassie, her mother, and father I'm surprised the family isn't an aberration yet.
*chuckle* I found it ironic, and also sad. It spoke of miscommunication, out of love and protectiveness, but still. Everyone doing things without letting the rest know, and panic running rampant.
44. Cassie and Ky are still progressing with their relationship even though they are being watched. If you were in Cassie's situation what would you differently? The same?
This question was somewhat raised in the pre-reading, and I said no, I'd decline. Thing is, they aren't leaping, they are borrowing time, and I'd do that. Like the characters show us, that is a slippery slope, where at any moment leaping might be worth it. I'm not a person that let's herself fall madly in love, so it'd have to take me very much by surprise to risk my whole way of life and family for it.
45. Where do you think Ky is getting his information? He knew about the archivist and fake singers. How is he acquiring this knowledge when he has such a low status in the society? How did he manage to get the birthday poem without giving away his artifact? Could Ky be a spy of some sort? He has a lot on Intel.
I thought it was about living in the edges. It's not unusual to know about illegal resources when the legal ones are harder to accede to.
46. Do you think it was wise of Cassie to sort Kyle into the higher group? Surly the society has data that will tell them what she did. Do you think she will be punished for this or will her tampering go unnoticed?
That felt like a "Damned if you do, damned if you don't" scenario. I remember thinking, even disregarding the die young factor, that we don't know which half would be the one getting shafted, so yeah, very silly, and calls for attention.
Stefani wrote: "38. In Cassie's society they have a Hundread Poems, Songs, Art, History etc preserved from the past. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, a..."
Four times! plus another 2? You really liked it. And I haven't had the opportunity to check it yet. Like I didn't want already, lol. Also, never heard of that book. Checking what it's about.
Edit: Ohh... I want to listen that!
Four times! plus another 2? You really liked it. And I haven't had the opportunity to check it yet. Like I didn't want already, lol. Also, never heard of that book. Checking what it's about.
Edit: Ohh... I want to listen that!
Questions/Comments for Chapters 11 - 1518) Do you think Cassia should have destroyed the poem?
I think it would have been safe inside the compact, but her fear got the best of her. She may regret it later. Or maybe she'll find a way to write it out herself.
19) What did you think of Cassia's father destroying her Grandfather's DNA? Would you have if your father had asked you to? I think they couldn't bring you back but they could create a clone.
I think he did the right thing if that was the grandfather's last request. It makes sense that he wants to die on his own terms. Who knows what they are doing with that DNA. If he was brought back it would be someone that looks like him and may even act like him but it wouldn't be him in the long run. Why would you want to leave this world knowing that the government could copy you at any time and use you for who knows what. And grandpa didn't seem like the type to trust the government so it makes sense for him to not want to give them anything.
20) Did you notice how Xander seemed 'stricken' about Em's (I hope I'm getting the character's name right) matching? Could Xander have hoped Em would have been matched to him? Could he have gotten a faulty Data card as well?
I didn't think Xander seemed all that interested in Em's match. I think he was more intrigued about how much Cassia seemed interested in the match and the jealousy in her tone. Maybe Xander was having doubts about whether Cassia found him good enough or if she was unhappy with the match and just trying to not show it. I found it interesting that he pointed out that she could trust Ky after all this too. I wonder if there is more there. Does Xander notice how Cassia looks at Ky? Or is there something deeper? There seem to be quite a few people holding secrets in this story and Xander and Ky may have a secret they share as well. Who knows.
21) There was a description of the flowers being given about how by being hybrids a lot of they variety and hardiness of them was bred out (or some such thing--again sorry I don't have the book and rewinding with a CD is not an easy thing). Do you agree its sounds a little like what they're doing with the people in Cassia's society?
It sounds like they made the flowers stronger, more fragrant, and easier to grow. They took the guess work and skill of gardening out of planting flowers. By attempting to make them stronger they took away the uniqueness and rarity of the flowers. They are most definitely doing the same thing with the people in the society. There is no need for uniqueness. Being unique brings about questions and differences which leads to animosity and jealousy which leads to rebellion and unhappiness.
22) Are you surprised Cassia hasn't told Ky he showed up on her data card? Would it be too cruel a thing to do?
I think Cassia is still too scared to really share anything with anyone. I was actually shocked that she told her dad about the poem so easily, or that he shared the fact that he ruined the tissue sample. I think as time goes on Cassia will open up a bit with her secrets. Especially to Ky since he seems to have so many secrets of his own being from such a different place. I also have the feeling that the place that Ky comes from is more similar to our society today then the created society in the story.
23) Did you like how her Grandpa's last words to her were don't be afraid to wonder?
That's a great motto to live by! Wondering and asking questions is the first part of critical thinking. If Cassia finally starts to wonder about what is happening in the society then she will begin to notice all the things that are wrong in society. All the things that Society doesn't want you to see or know about or even wonder about. She'll begin to want more out of life. More choices. More freedoms. Just more.
24) Everyone is starting to get their work assignments. What position do you think Cassia will get?
I have a feeling that Cassia is going to get some high level position like working with the match systems or something. It's hard to say because I don't really know what the various options are in the society. I think it will be incredibly important though based on her test results.
25) Do you think the red pill kills people?
I don't think the red pill kills anyone, but I don't really know what else it could do. I think the red pill is there to give the illusion of free will. You have this cool thing that you are now old enough to carry but no one knows what it does so you really shouldn't try to take it. It probably does nothing at all but everyone has been too scared to take it. Or maybe it's a test. A rebellious individual may try it and then society knows to eliminate them in some way because they are too curious.
26) What did you think about Em's nervous break down? What exactly are in those pills? Are they addictive? Why aren't abberations given capsules?
The green pill seems to be your typical "calm down" pill. Some sort of stress reliever that takes the edge off. Society would rather you take a pill when you feel stressed then cause a scene. The pills seem to be something that you earn by age, and since aberrations don't seem to get any of the common luxuries it would make sense that they also don't get pills.
27) Why do you think Cassia hasn't confided in Xander, her best friend?
It's the same reason she hasn't really confided in anyone. She is scared of being different. She's scared of things not going according to plan.
28) Is the cotton wood seed a sign of hope? It kind of reminded me of the truffala trees from Doctor Seuss--If someone cares...
I don't really know what the cotton seed was for. Maybe it was just a way to show that society has an explanation for everything. Society also has the ability to get rid of whatever it doesn't want in the same fashion that they were cutting down the trees the seeds came from.
Ch 16-2028. Cursive is being eliminated from the curriculum in some of the schools near me. I am 22 and when I was in grade school cursive was not used much and i find I don't really know he to connect the letters sometimes. I think cursive will eventually become a thing of the past but I think prints will continue to be used.
29. I kind of expected the society to have murdered his family maybe in some sort of war. This idea still seems to make sense so far.
30. At that age I think it is normal. By telling him she didn't have any more of the poem to share I think she made it rather obvious she was jealous.
31. Sounds awful. Especially watching your date eat enough and feeling like your not getting enough. Weird.
32. I think they are suspicious of something of planning something. I don't think they took them for equality purposes. I think ed might fond out though.
33. I don't know honestly because cassia hasn't told him anything. Maybe he knows more than he is letting on to.
34. No I dont think she would have noticed him but I think she would have wondered without him because of her grandfather.
35. I think he gates the society and doesn't want to have to work for their corrupt ways. He is smart and knows he would have to if they caught on.
36. Something is definitely going on.
37. Really not sure yet.
Zanahoria (Taly) wrote: "Stefani wrote: "38. In Cassie's society they have a Hundread Poems, Songs, Art, History etc preserved from the past. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, a..."Four times! plus another 2? You re..."
It is utterly fantastic. There were some flaws with the movie, but mostly I think that came from having to tell the story from 3rd person instead of 1st person.
And Scott Sigler is my absolute favorite author. I have read and listened to everything he's ever produced and found only 1 that I didn't really like. If you think Ancestor sounds interesting, also look at Nocturnal...that one is equally as good.
Will let you know after I've heard Ancestor. It sound like a chilling story. Perfect bait.
Just finished it. I like how Cassie grew (up) in the end. Making choices, especially when you can live with something really good, just not what's true, is sometimes easier than going after the right choice. Dystopia books always creep me out...the whole " you are our puppet on a string" mentality; "we control you, even when you think we don't".
Does anyone want to read the next book with me?
Discussion Questions/Comments for Chapters 21 - 26 39. Cassie noticed a shortage of Officials in the game room, there were extra patrols in the boroughs, and her mom went on a mysterious work trip. What do you think is happening? I'm thinking that there might be something (like a riot) going on in the outer provinces and the government is trying to contain it
Something is definitely up.
40. Ky says he isn't an anomaly "yet". Do you think this was just bitterness because of his circumstances or could he be involved in something else all together?
Maybe he feels like lashing out.
41. What do you think of Cassie's meeting with the Official who talked to her about her relationship with Ky? Was it wise for her to say that she thinks that people should be able to choose who they are matched with?
She is definitely being closely monitored and it seems they are steering her toward things. No I don't think her saying she'd like people to be able to choose was a wise thing to admit. What was she thinking?
42. The Official said that Cassie didn't commit an infraction and that that part of the announcement was a mistake. This is the second accident that involved Cassie, do you think someone is setting her up? Or were these mistakes purely coincidental?
For a Society that was thought to make no mistakes they sure are making a lot. I was wondering if they were testing her to be an official and seeing if they could trust her?
43. I didn't expect Cassie's mother to say that the warning (cutting down the trees) were meant for her! Between Cassie, her mother, and father I'm surprised the family isn't an aberration yet.
With the exception of the lost DNA, they really haven't done anything.
44. Cassie and Ky are still progressing with their relationship even though they are being watched. If you were in Cassie's situation what would you differently? The same?
I have no idea.
45. Where do you think Ky is getting his information? He knew about the archivist and fake singers. How is he acquiring this knowledge when he has such a low status in the society? How did he manage to get the birthday poem without giving away his artifact? Could Ky be a spy of some sort? He has a lot on Intel.
This all has been making me wonder how old was he when he moved to Cassia's neighborhood? Could this all be things he learned before?
46. Do you think it was wise of Cassie to sort Kyle into the higher group? Surly the society has data that will tell them what she did. Do you think she will be punished for this or will her tampering go unnoticed?
I wonder what the new work assignment will entail?
Questions will be up (much!) later tonight.
39. Something is definitely going on. What's up with the maple trees though? I cant figure out where that fits in all of this.40. I think he's referring to his and cassia's relationship.
41. I think they are watching her a lot for one because of the things with ky but also because of her new job position coming up. I think she needs to be careful of what she says to the officials or there will be trouble for her.
42. It seems strange for two accidents to happen on a "perfect" society. I'm m suspicious that something is behind the mistakes.
43. She must have done something on the trips to make the officials mad. Maybe she spike out about getting rid of normal plants and making "better" varieties like the newroses. She said earlier that oldrosds smell better and she seems like she could be against drastic horticultural change.
44. Eh. Probably the same. I cant conceal emotions well.
45. I think he has contact with people that want change from the outer provinces perhaps.
46. I would have sorted him average. I think they are testing to her and will probably catch on.
Questions/Comments for Chapters 16 - 20 28) What do you think of the fact writing has been eliminated? They are attempting to make cursive a thing of the past in our schools. Do you think eventually typing will be the only means of writing in our society as it is in Cassia's?
I don't know if writing will disappear entirely, but there is definitely less and less need to physically write something out. These days when someone writes a note down they usually pull out their phone and tap something there instead of writing it on paper where it could get lost. I could see society eventually getting to a point where there is no need to grab a pen and write anything.
29) What do you make of Ky's story?
I want more details! Did the officials kill off his family?
30) What do you think of Cassia's jealousy of Libby? Were you surprised to know Ky knew she was jealous and that he liked it?
Cassia needs to be a bit more careful about her jealousy streaks if she hopes to keep her secret. I wasn't surprised by Ky's response. Ky does what he needs to get by, but is the most individualistic character in this book. He knows what is beyond the walls of the burrough and he knows some dark secrets about what society really is (or so it seems). Ky is just finally showing someone that he's different. I think the game room escapade really shows how truly intelligent Ky is when it comes to showing the officials exactly what they want to see.
31) What did you make of the date with Xander?
It seemed boring. But then again, I guess romance doesn't really survive in a place that chooses your match for you.
32) Why do you think they took everyone's artifacts?
I wonder if it has something to do with Cassia's dream she had the night before the artifacts were taken. I find it hard to believe that it was just a coincidence that she dreamed of her artifact and killing Em right before all artifacts were taken away. That or the officials saw the exchange with Ky outside her house and expected to find another artifact. Who knows. It could have nothing to do with Cassia in the end.
33) Do you think Xander knew the compass was Ky's?
Not sure. It may be that he knew Ky was trust worthy and therefore used his yard. Or maybe that it was a convenient place to stop as he headed home. He may have hid the compact in the same place if that's what she had given him (since that was supposed to be what he was hiding). I wonder why Xander isn't asking more questions about the new artifact though.
34) If the error on Cassia's data card hadn't popped up Ky's picture do you think she'd have ever noticed him? Do you think part of what she feels for Ky is sympathy because she knows he will never be matched and not by choice? Do you think she would have ever questioned the Society if the error never happened?
I don't think it's sympathy per se, I think it just opened her eyes to his existence. Before the match she didn't necessarily pay attention because she ddn't have a choice in the end of who she would be with. After the match she was infatuated with Xander because he was her match. Then the picture happened and her grandfather told her it was ok to wonder and thus, the infatuation begins. I think if his pic hadn't popped up then Cassia would never have given her match a second thought. She would have went on, oblivious to it all. But after everything with the picture and her grandpa she's beginning to question society more and wants something different then what they have given her.
35) Why do you think Ky throws the games?
Yes. Why bring attention to yourself when you don't have to? Due to his status as an aberration he can't change vocation or get any reward from being good at the games. It's better to just blend in and not be extraordinary at anything. More questions come when you stand out in the crowd. Questions that Ky probably doesn't want to answer or think about.
36) Does it seem strange that Cassia's mom is going on such a long trip? Is something changing in the Society? It just seemed strange that they starting collecting artifacts and all.
It seems like something it going hay wire. Between the trip and the lack of officials at the game room, there must be something amiss. I sens a revolution brewing with the number of people that seem to have secrets in this book.
37) Do you think Xander suspects that something is going on between Cassia and Ky?
Not sure. He knows that they hike together and that they've all been friends for years so he doesn't really have any real evidence to say that Cassia has any feelings towards Ky that are different then before. I think she's been fairly careful at keeping that hidden. I definitely think there is something weird about Xander and Ky though. Just not sure what yet. I feel like they have a secret of their own. They seem awfully close and the fact that Xander reassured Cassia that she could trust Ky. It's just weird to me.
70 - Stefani - "Maybe. If we hear any more about Ky's depth filled eyes I'll try one and let you know how it goes lol"This made me giggle. I'm usually the one whining about the sappyness of books these days. I'm glad I'm not the only one out there.
79 - Lisarenee - "I kind of see her has someone awakening from a fog. These people are like robots who've been programmed all their lives"
This. Definitely this.
Anyways, still behind. Working on catching up.
So am I, Jex. I'm still reading and it's 1AM! Forgive my sleep deprived mind but is this thread backwards???
Sorry for the late questions, y'all. On Mondays, Wednesday's, and Fridays I literally have classes from 9AM-8:30PM. Add homework and reading to the mix and things get hectic quickly. Thank you for your patience! Questions for Chapters 27 - End
47. If the government wanted Molly to forget about the crops why not just give her the red pill? Do you think Cassie's family is being relocated to the farm lands because of her mother's knowledge? Or is this just a way to punish Cassie for her behavior?
48. Do you think Ky would have been sent away if Cassie had corrected her sort when the Official gave her the chance to? Or was him being sent away inevitable?
49. Wait...so the government did or didn't put Ky's info into the matching pool? I know they set them up but did they initiate the match or just run with a mistake that was made by a third party?
50. I understand that Cassie wants to keep 'her' poem a secret with Ky but wouldn't isn't keeping the poem between her and Ky just as selfish as what the government does?
51. Has you opinion of Ky and Cassie's relationship changed now that you know that it was all orchestrated by outside forces? Why or why not?
52. What was the most surprising thing that happened during today's reading IYO? Was it finding out what the red pill does, the family being sent to the Farmlands, Cassie being sent away to work for three months, or something else altogether?
53. What is your overall thought of the book? Feel free to include star ratings and links to personal reviews. Are you going to read book two?
Discussion Questions and Comments for Chapters 21 - 26 38. In Cassie's society they have a Hundread Poems, Songs, Art, History etc preserved from the past. If you could preserve ONE book, movie, and song from the present (or past) to be preserved for the future what would they be? No cheating! You can only select one item for each category.
Book: The Giver. As for song and movie, I don't think I have one that I'm attached to in any way. Movie would probably be Alice in Wonderland but I don't know what version. Song.....I really don't know.
39. Cassie noticed a shortage of Officials in the game room, there were extra patrols in the boroughs, and her mom went on a mysterious work trip. What do you think is happening? I'm thinking that there might be something (like a riot) going on in the outer provinces and the government is trying to contain it.
I think there is some sort of uprising that's begining. It sounds like the outer provinces have always been troublesome, but maybe that behavior is starting to leak into the inner provinces.
40. Ky says he isn't an anomaly "yet". Do you think this was just bitterness because of his circumstances or could he be involved in something else all together?
I think he's involved in a lot. My guess is the workers have a seedy underground which is why they have to be watched more then the students. Something is comeing, and hopefully it comes soon because I'm getting a bit bored with the book.
41. What do you think of Cassie's meeting with the Official who talked to her about her relationship with Ky? Was it wise for her to say that she thinks that people should be able to choose who they are matched with?
I think the official was telling the truth when she said people have flings after being matched all the time. Usually they don't have to worry about their matches finding out since they are in a different province from them. Everything about Cassia's match has been weird from her being matched with her best friend to her card being messed up and Ky's face appearing. I want Cassia to tell Ky about his picture. I want to know how he would take that information.
42. The Official said that Cassie didn't commit an infraction and that that part of the announcement was a mistake. This is the second accident that involved Cassie, do you think someone is setting her up? Or were these mistakes purely coincidental?
I think it being called an infraction was done on purpose and the official was down playing it. They want Cassia to be scared of what may happen and having her think she was in trouble was just the beginning of that.
43. I didn't expect Cassie's mother to say that the warning (cutting down the trees) were meant for her! Between Cassie, her mother, and father I'm surprised the family isn't an aberration yet.
I really want to know what the mother has been up to on her trips and why she felt she was being warned. Maybe she refused to do something on her trip? Or maybe she saved something that shouldn't have been saved?
44. Cassie and Ky are still progressing with their relationship even though they are being watched. If you were in Cassie's situation what would you differently? The same?
I think they are being a bit too careless. I don't think the woods are as safe as they think they are. Although if someone was spying on them then they would know about the writing, the papers being passed, and all that as well which they don't seem to know about. Or at least haven't brought up yet.
45. Where do you think Ky is getting his information? He knew about the archivist and fake singers. How is he acquiring this knowledge when he has such a low status in the society? How did he manage to get the birthday poem without giving away his artifact? Could Ky be a spy of some sort? He has a lot on Intel.
The lower in society are usually the ones that figure out the flaws in society first. They are the ones that question the most because they have the least to lose. It's easy to keep the privileged in check by just threatening their status in life, but when you're at the bottom you really can't fall much further. I think this is especially apparent in Ky because he knows what it's like in the outer provinces. He knows what to expect when they threaten to send him back. Knowing is a lot less scary then the unknown so he has even less to fear then most. Or maybe more to fear depending on how bad it really was out there.
46. Do you think it was wise of Cassie to sort Kyle into the higher group? Surly the society has data that will tell them what she did. Do you think she will be punished for this or will her tampering go unnoticed?
I think that was part of her test. I'm sure it wasn't a coincidence that he was in the group that she was sorting. Would she try to help him? In her mind she did a good thing by helping him and sending him away, thus letting him go. I think she showed more that she cared for him by putting him in the top ranks then anything else. That speech given by the official before she sorted Ky had a ton of meaning to it and drastically affected the position she sorted Ky into. I think she failed.
Questions for Chapters 27 - End 47. If the government wanted Molly to forget about the crops why not just give her the red pill? Do you think Cassie's family is being relocated to the farm lands because of her mother's knowledge? Or is this just a way to punish Cassie for her behavior?
This wasn't explained very well at all. Mom thinks its because of her, Cassia thinks its because of her...but the reader knows nothing about the truth. That frustrates me. I want to say it's because of Cassia, but I dunno.
48. Do you think Ky would have been sent away if Cassie had corrected her sort when the Official gave her the chance to? Or was him being sent away inevitable?
I think they knew she wouldn't correct the sort, so they could safely ask her and still send him away.
49. Wait...so the government did or didn't put Ky's info into the matching pool? I know they set them up but did they initiate the match or just run with a mistake that was made by a third party?
I honestly don't know. The author tried to create a conspiracy theory there I think but it didn't work very well.
50. I understand that Cassie wants to keep 'her' poem a secret with Ky but wouldn't isn't keeping the poem between her and Ky just as selfish as what the government does?
Yes, but I am no longer surprised by Cassia being selfish after 300 something pages of this book.
51. Has you opinion of Ky and Cassie's relationship changed now that you know that it was all orchestrated by outside forces? Why or why not?
If it's really love then it shouldn't matter to either of them...the fact that it is bothering Cassia tells me she's in lust rather than love.
52. What was the most surprising thing that happened during today's reading IYO? Was it finding out what the red pill does, the family being sent to the Farmlands, Cassie being sent away to work for three months, or something else altogether?
I can't really say any of it surprised me just because by this point I didn't really care enough to be surprised. I didn't like this book much at all.
53. What is your overall thought of the book? Feel free to include star ratings and links to personal reviews. Are you going to read book two?
I think I am going with a 2 star right now. It's not quite as bad as other 1 stars I've read, but definitely not good enough for anything more than 2. I thought the world building was lacking in very serious ways. We are dumped into this world and not a single thing is explained to the reader, we're just supposed to know. I found Cassia very unlikable, especially at the end when she once again used Xander for her own personal means and completely disregarded his feelings for her. Then gets all freaked out about her love with Ky not being real, and blah blah blah. Selfish little twit are the only words I have for her. Anyway, I will save it for my review ;)
Nothing But Reading Challenges
Books mentioned in this topic
Delirium (other topics)Divergent (other topics)
The Giver (other topics)
Matched (other topics)
10. Something just came to mind. Could seeing Ky's face on her port screen be a signal/message to someone else (maybe someone in the government)? Grandfather's reaction to the news made me think. It's like he knew more than he was letting on.
I think Cassia was right when she said the Society doesn't make mistakes so why were there two matches on her card?
11. People in Cassie's society rarely have to worry about unexpected death. They know, for the most part, that they will die on their 80th year after the final banquet. What is one pro and con of this society's method of death?
You are almost guaranteed to live a long life, but when you get to that eightieth birthday they are killing you. BTW, What was in her grandfather's food that no one was allowed to eat it?
12. Would you want to know the age that you were going to die? Or would you prefer to be oblivious? Based on your answer explain why.
No. I'd rather not know. I don't know if you could enjoy your last days if you did.
13. Cassie thinks the final banquet is a "luxury" and "fair" but I think it's sad that they can't even cry at the loss of their grandfather in the nursing home because it would be viewed as them not handling it well.
I agree.
14. So Laura was partially right in that the government does preserve you...in a sense. [See her answer to question #9]. The society freezes your DNA in hopes of reusing it in the future. What do you guys think of this, creepy or cool?
A little creepy. What do they intend to do with it and why isn't everyone's DNA being kept?
15. This society has many strange laws but I can understand the logic behind many of them except for the one where you can't share food. What's that about? How does sharing or not sharing food affect the greater good of a society?
I think there's something in the food for the elderly. I think they were the only ones who couldn't share.
16. What were you expecting to be on the paper that grandfather gave Cassie? I certainly did not expect poetry! Were you more surprised or disappointed by the revelation?
I thought it interesting. You really couldn't keep much in it. It shows even those on the committees were opposed to getting rid of the poems, literature, and paintings. It might just be a single sheet of paper, but it speaks volumes.
17. We got to see a littler more of Ky during today's reading. What do you think of him so far?
I wonder why he was crying in the theater.