What This Book Is About
In a dark future version of Los Angeles, the western United States has become the Republic—a military state locked in perpetual war. Fifteen-year-old June Iparis is the Republic's golden child: born into a wealthy family, she scored a perfect 1500 on the Trial (a test all children must take at age ten), and she is being groomed as an elite military officer. Fifteen-year-old Day, born in the slums, officially failed his Trial and is believed to be dead. In reality, he escaped and became the Republic's most wanted criminal—a Robin Hood figure who sabotages the government and helps the poor.
When June's beloved older brother is murdered, all evidence points to Day. Driven by grief and vengeance, June hunts him down. But when she finds him, nothing is what it seems. The government she serves has been lying about everything—the Trials, the plague ravaging the poor sectors, and the true nature of the war. Marie Lu, who grew up in China before immigrating to the United States, delivers a debut that is relentlessly paced, politically charged, and emotionally devastating. Legend is the book that made dystopian fiction feel urgent again, with two protagonists whose collision course will keep readers turning pages until three in the morning.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why UWC Chose This Book
Legend explores what happens when citizens trust their government without question—a theme with obvious relevance to UWC's mission of developing critical, independent thinkers. June's journey from loyal soldier to questioning rebel mirrors the intellectual transformation UWC hopes to catalyze in its students: the courage to examine your own assumptions and change your mind when the evidence demands it.
The dual-perspective structure (June and Day alternate chapters) teaches students to hold two worldviews simultaneously and understand how the same event can look completely different depending on where you stand—a skill that is essential in a school community of sixty-plus nationalities.
Reading Level Guide
Too challenging at A2. Build up through B1 novels like Holes or Hatchet.
The sweet spot. A rewarding challenge for strong B1 readers; comfortable for B2.
A fast, thrilling read at C1. The political themes remain thought-provoking at any level.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
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