By Emily Chang, Journalism 1

Legend by Marie Lu is the first installment of a new dystopian series. Amidst other big hits like,  The Hunger Games and Divergent, Legend is a breath of fresh air. Marie Lu crafts an unprecedented story and takes many risks to create a plot that stands out.

In the future western United States, now called the Republic, two stories are told from two different perspectives– Day, born in the slums and the country’s maost wanted criminal and June, the military’s budding prodigy. When June’s brother, an important military leader, is murdered, June looks to avenge his death. Her journey for revenge crosses with Day’s own personal mission. Along the way, the two discover something that will change their lives, and lives of everyone else in the Republic.

Many times, authors do not fully understand the world they are creating, yet still attempt to put the world into words. Sometimes, the words fall flat and the world is unconvincing. However, Lu uses exquisite detail to capture the world she created; her dystopian universe is well-developed and believable. She also crafts a unique slang special to her story, and vast descriptions regarding the daily attire of the future.

Lu’s characters are phenomenal protagonists. Her decision to switch back and forth between two characters allows the reader to experience the different sides of wealth in the Republic. Lu utilizes different emotions and writing styles to allow the reader to easily distinguish the two narrators. Her characters undergo authentic character development and she clearly understands the motives of each of her characters.

Lu also grants her supporting characters time in the spotlight. Readers will be pleasantly surprised by her superb cast of aiding characters. Lu provides a variety of sizes, gender, color, age and personality. Each one of her characters is special, and each one matures in their own way.

Lu has a handful of tricks up her sleeve. Her book is both emotional and action-packed. No moment is too boring, or too elaborate. She weaves face-paced activity and thoughtful conversations with skill. Lu builds up suspense beautifully, and surprises readers with twists unrivaled by other dystopian books.

Writing a successful dystopian novel is a challenge. Marie Lu jumped over this hurdle with grace. Legend is an unparalleled book with well-constructed characters and an unexpected, but highly enjoyable, plot.