The Chosen One

Williams, Carol Lynch.  (2009).  THE CHOSEN ONE A NOVEL.  New York:  ST Martin's Griffin.  ISBN 9780312555115

Kyra is one of twenty-two children her father has with three different wives. She has grown up on a polygamist compound known as “The Chosen Ones”. As a teenager, Kyra starts to question some of the ideas that are happening within the compound she calls home. She rebels in her mind against the burning of all books, and eventually finds an out when she is introduced to the Irontron County Mobile Library. She becomes friends with the driver, Patrick, who the reader can infer, knows the truth behind Kyra’s lifestyle, and offers assistance even before Kyra contemplates leaving the compound. “You know, Kyra,” Patrick says. He looks at me down the steps. “If you ever need a ride into town, I can give you one.” (p.67).Patrick becomes extremely important in Kyra’s life of conflicts of what she believes are right or wrong. 

Many themes are evident throughout this novel. Normalcy, cults, religious and self-freedom are a few. Kyra’s character is unsure if what she sees on the compound is truly the work of God. “The forced marriage brings with it more than a whiff of child rape, though Williams unnecessarily pushes every button by also depicting the church hierarchy as murderers who use their religiosity to sadistically control and humiliate their parishioners,” (Kirkus Review, 2009). She also questions her obedience to the Prophets, especially after she was chosen to be the wife of her uncle, the seventh wife. “I know I should be quiet. That I should do what I’m told. But I can’t help it. Anger scream tears from me. Without meaning to, I’m crying.” (p.89). 

Many important parts of this story are told through Kyra’s mind. Carol Lynch Williams choice to tell the story through Kyra is extremely important to the audience. Even though Kyra may say one thing aloud, the reader gets to understand Kyra from her thoughts.  The reader gets to see the constant struggle she faces with staying on the compound with her family, or setting herself free from having to marry her sixty-year old uncle. “Mother and Father stand in the kitchen. His arms are around her and she rests against him. Look what I have caused, I think. Look at this grief.” (p. 96). 

Even though readers can understand Kyra having struggles with true love, such as her love with Joshua, they may find it difficult to understand the life of living within a cult. The story ends leaving you wonder if Kyra is going to truly find freedom from her troubles, or if she will find life more difficult on the outside.” Kyra presents a poignant story that is compelling and powerful. Readers will not be able to put the book down as they cheer for a positive outcome,” (Glantz, 2009). Young readers who are interested in a different culture, as well as books with open endings will enjoy this novel. “Within a fast-moving story, Williams creates sympathetic characters, and readers will hold their breath right to the end, hoping that Kyra wins her freedom.” (Philpot, 2009). 

Reviews:

Glantz, Shelley. Library Media Connection, Oct2009, Vol. 28 Issue 2, p77-77, 1/7p

PHILPOT, CHELSEY. Horn Book Magazine, May/Jun2009, Vol. 85 Issue 3, p311-311, 1/2p

Kirkus Reviews, 4/1/2009, Vol. 77 Issue 7, p397-397, 1/4p