Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sci-fi sequel spends too much time in familiar territory.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 12+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
INDEPENDENT STUDY picks up where The Testing left off, with Cia about to begin her education at the Commonwealth's prestigious University. Her memories have been wiped away, but she still has her brother's contraband Transit Communicator that contains clues about her predicament. But Cia can't stop the nightmares that plague her. With the assistance of undercover members of the rebel forces, she learns more about what's expected of her and what happens to those students who fail to meet the expectations of their teachers. The question remains: Will her hard-won knowledge be enough to save her life?
Is It Any Good?
Independent Study falls into the narrative trap that captures many second volumes in a trilogy. The novelty of the first installment has worn off, and the author isn't ready yet to choreograph the rousing conclusion. So Book 2 sometimes feels as if the plot is merely marking time. With Cia having had her memory wiped at the end of The Testing, there's a lot of catch-up that simply isn't as interesting the second time around. Author Joelle Charbonneau also allows Cia to find out too much crucial information by wandering around in the dark and conveniently overhearing conversations. There are a couple of intriguing reversals at the end of Independent Study that hint at a satisfying finale to come, but readers are going to need a lot of patience before they get to them.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about dystopian novels and why they're so popular. How does Independent Study compare with other dystopian novels you've read?
What makes a good leader? Someone who can get the job done, no matter what obstacles he or she may face? Or someone who's more empathetic and tries to meet the needs of her or his teammates?
Do you think academic institutions ever put too much pressure on students? What are some healthy ways of dealing with such stress?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Topics : Friendship , School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
- Publication date : January 28, 2014
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 12 - 17
- Number of pages : 320
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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