The well-known novel series, Shatter Me, by Tahereh Mafi, contains six books: Shatter Me, Unravel Me, Ignite Me, Restore Me, Defy Me, and Imagine Me. The Shatter Me series is the story of a teenage girl who has never been able to experience human touch without inflicting extreme pain. Her name is Juliette, and she lives on a broken and abused Earth, which has lost all of its beauty because of humanity. The Reestablishment is the anti-organization that hoards materials away from the rest of their society for their benefit, but with every world power, there are its rebels. The entire series is about how Juliette and her friends live in a fast-paced novel, taking place in a dangerous dystopian society. After reading the six novels, I’ve critiqued each separately and have shared my thoughts below.
Shatter Me:
The first book introduces us to Juliette, a girl with a lethal touch, imprisoned for her powers. As she discovers her abilities and new friends, she faces a choice between freedom and loyalty. It is a fast-paced book, which restrained me from putting it down. The unique writing style, which shows strikethroughs in Juliette’s inner thoughts, gives an interesting twist to the point of view. There is an air of loneliness, which leads to an era of self-discovery.
Unravel Me:
In this sequel, Juliette deals with the idea of who she is. Not only that, but two love interests: Adam and Warner, keep still inside her mind. As she trains to control her powers, a love triangle forms, with more political tensions arising. With all that is happening, the book provides a vivid story that never seems to stop. The tense and emotional theme of the book makes this an amazing rollercoaster of various emotions.
Ignite Me:
This would probably have been my favorite book of the series. This is the climax of the last three books, and it is left with two things: Juliette, and the Reestablishment. With newfound confidence and allies, she realizes that she will fight for the future- no matter what hoards her way. There is a satisfying conclusion with Juliette transformed from a scared girl to a brave warrior. The book is fast-paced and exciting, but the story’s focus on Juliette’s romantic relationships distracts the theme of rebellion and resistance.
Restore Me:
This book shows the aftermath of Ignite Me, and it is filled with leadership and betrayal. With surprising revelations and plot twists, the layers of complexity, and the noticeable energy keep readers on their toes. Juliette is unsure of how to manage a raging world and is unsure of who to trust. The new narratives and characters leave you hungry for more. Unfortunately, Ignite Me felt like a sequel to a trilogy. This book seemed to drag on the rest of the series, with nothing much more to tell.
Defy Me:
In this book, Juliette’s secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, the characters must confront their pasts to secure their future. Juliette learns things about herself that she didn’t know were true. It is a psychologically tense book, showing that Juliette’s life is not what she thought it was. This contradicts her whole life, but the pieces do eventually come together, leaving her to wonder who she is. Readers will go on a ride experiencing befuddlement, anticipation, and worry. As the end of the series draws near, the unique writing style leads you on. The characters’ pasts are insightful, and the ending of the book leaves you with a question of what will happen next.
Imagine Me:
The final book ties up loose ends as Juliette and her allies confront the ultimate threat to their freedom. With high stakes and high action, you will find the ending satisfying, yet you will still be wanting more. Characters endure much and come out different than they were before- achieved. Mafi manages to strike a balance between closure and leaving room for imagination, giving the series a fitting end.
Overall, I feel as if I enjoyed reading the series. Shatter Me gave me a rollercoaster of emotions, all of which I cannot disagree with. I have always had a liking for dystopian books, and I think this would have made it around the higher areas (tops to Divergent and Maze Runner). The narrative was exciting, and it provided an interesting read. I thoroughly recommend this book, for it can immerse the reader completely, leaving you satisfied and not at the same time.
