Review: What would you do achieve your dreams?
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 08 31, 2012
I admit that I do not read YA every day, but the last YA book I read "The Hunger Games" gave me the impression that this genre has certainly changed since I was a YA.  I thought most of the themes in the Hunger Games were more A than YA and the same goes for "The Academy".  Kids are growing up faster and faster and some of the themes that Mrs. Andrews explores are concepts around masculinity/femininity, gender roles, sexuality, teen suicide, and bullying.  These are all very powerful and relevant themes in today's (and it seems future) society and I admire how Mrs. Andrews guides the reader along this exploration through the use of `gentle' romance between the protagonist and her love interest.  I don't know if this was Andrews' intent or if I'm thinking too much, but it was masterful strategy.I think some authors would be very blunt with their messages, but Mrs. Andrew shines because of her subtle plot twist and surprise turns.  I enjoyed getting to know Kris and it made me reflect on how much we take for granted as young women and some of the challenges of young men, especially how masculinity is defined in some parts of the world by being the biggest and tallest.  Kris' journey as a confused girl thrown in a boy's world was interesting and I was pulled in as a reader wondering how she was going to make it, but through her wits, intelligence, and skill with a sword she's able to succeed.  What a message for other young women out there!I wish there had been some discussion questions at the end, because if my daughter was reading it there would be a LOT I would want for us to discuss - some questions would be great for parents and kids to engage in a deep and meaningful discussion about the book's themes.The age range? I would say PG-13 (another reviewer already mentioned this).  I think there's too much romance to appeal to young men, but they should definitely read it.  I know I enjoyed it and look forward to more from Mrs. Andrews.