January 27, 2025 by Daniela Fleming (‘26)
Once again, welcome back to Five Stars, where I share my favorite, “5 star” reads that had me hooked from the first page to the last. These are the books that I still think of, even though it may have been years since reading them. Last year, I read 90 books, including a wide range of genres. I hope through this series I can recommend something for everyone: contemporary fiction, thriller, historical fiction, and this time? Science fiction!
My pick this time is Red Rising by Pierce Brown. I was introduced to this series a little over a year ago, and I’m so glad I picked it up. This is the first time I’m recommending a series, and it may just be my favorite one of all time. I have to be honest: this series is lengthy. Don’t let that stop you from reading it, though! Even if sci-fi doesn’t seem remotely interesting, and you don’t want a large commitment, give this one a chance. I’ve heard this book even described as the Hunger Games in space. If that interests you, read ahead! But this book is so much more than that description.
Red Rising begins with Darrow, a “Red” teenage boy living on Mars… in the world Pierce Brown has created, society has branched out and now lives throughout the solar system. They also live by a rigid caste system that determines their jobs and status. It begins with the “Reds,” the lowest of the low, and ends with the “Golds,” who dominate over society. After a traumatizing experience involving a loved one, Darrow joins the resistance, seeking revenge against his messed-up society. With the help of rebel fighters, he masquerades as a Gold, gaining entrance into their prestigious “last man standing” competition, where the future leaders of society fight for global recognition. Here Darrow’s grit is put to the test – he is surrounded by Gold peers who are trained as ruthless, powerful machines. Let the chaos ensue.
I’ll stop there because I want you to read and experience this masterpiece of a book yourself. I wish I could go back and experience this book for the first time again. If you think sci-fi isn’t your thing, I sincerely think this book will change your mind. This book (and series!) is unlike any other, and I can’t recommend it enough.
With all that said, happy reading!
Photo source: amazon.com