Book Review: Legend by Marie Lu

By: Emily L., Grade 8

• Genre: Dystopian
• Length: 305 pages
• Age: 12+

Legend by Marie Lu is one of the most addictive and thrilling dystopian novels I’ve ever read. Set in the post-apocalyptic world of the Republic of America, the story follows two characters, June and Day, on an action-packed journey that eventually pulls the two together. 15-year-old June is the prized prodigy of the Republic, determined to be the best. Meanwhile, the Republic's most-wanted criminal, Day, is not at all the monster he is described to be. He is a smart and quick-witted teenager fighting to protect his family from the Republic.

The two characters are never supposed to cross paths, until June’s brother is killed and Day is said to be the murderer. Determined to avenge her brother’s death, June goes on an unrelenting mission to track this “dangerous” criminal down, not knowing that Day’s true intentions are far from malicious. As June digs deeper into Day’s records and the Republic’s hidden history, she discovers many shocking truths about the true intentions of the country, as well as the drastic measures taken to conceal their secrets.

This book really dragged me in with the two different protagonists, each one with different backgrounds and motivations. Though at first June and Day may seem like complete enemies, many unexpected but exciting plot twists start to show to both of them that maybe they weren’t so different. 

Many themes resonated throughout the book, such as the blurred line between good and evil. Characters who seem “good” may actually have underlying motives that are “evil”. And on the other hand, people who are labeled as dangerous may be the ones who care the most. Themes of love and sacrifice were also presented, shown through many scenes such as characters risking their lives for their families, and standing up to the unquestionable system to protect those they loved.

Legend is definitely on the top of my recommendation list, engaging readers through the complex plot and intriguing characters. If you’re looking for a dystopian story that is suspenseful but heroic, Legend should absolutely be your next pick.