Crossed is the second book in the Matched series by Ally Condie. My review of Matched almost a year ago began thus: Matched, by Ally Condie, is simply one of the best young adult books I have read. Ever.
Crossed continues Condie's fine writing, including her sense of plot, character development and something that causes these two books to rise above many current YA reads -- thoughtful and insightful commentary that actually might make young adult readers think about society and freedom.
Especially in these troubled times, with protestors in every large town demanding fairness and equity from our rules and regulations, the Matched series illustrates what happens in a society where choice is totally taken away from its citizens. Are there benefits? Clearly.
The citizens in this future dystopian society live eighty years (after which they enjoy a Final Banquet where they enjoy wonderful foods created only for them -- and poisoned carefully for them so they live only their allotted eighty years). Most major diseases such as cancer have been eradicated. Meals are carefully balanced and enriched for each person based on their physical needs.
But, and this is a huge but, if citizens question Society's actions, they either are given red pills that cause them to forget the past twelve hours or they are sent away.
The story of Cassia, Ky and Xander continues, and all three characters continue to be important. Cassia loves both guys, Ky and Xander. The story is told in alternative first person narratives from Ky's and Cassia's points of view. Interestingly, both narrators provide the reader with information about Xander which the other narrator does not know.
Read rest of review at: http://www.examiner.com/young-adult-fiction-in-chicago/crossed-by-ally-condie-is-a-worthy-sequel-to-matched-review