A review by emily_m_green
The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau

adventurous dark tense medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Plot
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

The Testing, the first in a trilogy by Joelle Charbonneau, is set in a post-apocalyptic world in which the vegetation has largely been destroyed and the people who remain have to find new ways to grow plants and rebuild communities. 

Cia, a recent high school graduate, has been chosen for the Testing, and she is confident that she will do well. She is bright and tough and ready to be challenged. And challenged she will certainly be. 

The Testing is a series of knowledge, skill based, and survival tests that determine who will go to college and then become the new leaders. The people behind the test are only concerned with sifting through to find the best, regardless of the cost to those who don’t make it through. Once the testing is concluded, candidates’ minds are wiped clean. 

The Testing is similar to other dystopian novels like The Maze Runner and Hunger Games. There is an unjust power system and a brave teen who is trying to win their way in the unjust system. 

Would I teach this book? The Testing is included in the dystopian novel unit I just finished teaching, and is a choice for students who have already torn their way through the other choices. I would say, however, that The Testing does not stand up to The Maze Runner  or Hunger Games in terms likeability of characters or exciting plot. For students who already read the other choices, it is certainly an alternative, but it is only so-so.