Cass, Kiera.
THE SELECTION
New York : HarperTeen, 2012
IL YA
ISBN 0062059939

(2 booktalks)

Booktalk #1

The first book in this dystopian series follows America Singer, a teenage girl who is chosen to participate in a contest to pick the future queen and bride of the handsome Prince Maxon. There is a rigid caste system in her society, so if chosen, America, who is in Caste 5, would become a One. Despite the glamour, wealth, and power that such a position offers, America isn't happy about being chosen as a finalist.  She hides a forbidden love for a boy named Aspen in Caste 6, the same person who urged her to enter the contest. Most of the 35 girls in the competition are thrilled to have the opportunity to escape life in a lower caste and live in the palace where they get to wear gorgeous gowns and priceless jewels as they compete for the heart of Prince Maxon.  Just as America finds herself drawn to the prince and willing to become his bride, Aspen shows up as a new guard at the palace, which is under constant attack by rebels. As she continues to participate in the contest, America finds herself drawn to both boys. Sequel: The Elite (Next book in the series The One  is due  May 2014) (Book Talk Author: Sharon Nehls, Colorado Blue Spruce Award, 2015)

Booktalk #2

The Selection by Kiera Cass follows America Singer, a teenage girl who is chosen to participate in a contest to pick the future queen and bride of the handsome Prince Maxon. Despite the glamour, wealth, and power that such a position offers, America isn't happy being chosen--especially as she hides a forbidden love for a boy named Aspen in a lower caste, the same person who urged her to enter the contest. Most of the 35 girls in the competition see it as an opportunity to escape life in a lower caste and live in the palace where they get to wear gorgeous gowns and priceless jewels as they compete for the heart of Prince Maxon. Just as America finds herself warming to the prince, Aspen shows up as a new guard at the palace, which is under constant attack by rebels. As she participates in the contest, America finds herself drawn to both boys.  (Booktalk by Sharon Nehls.  Colorado Blue Spruce Award, 2016)