TL;DR
Red Rising by Pierce Brown is a gripping dystopian novel about Darrow, a low-caste Red, who infiltrates the ruling Gold caste to bring down their oppressive regime.
What is Red Rising about
Red Rising is set in a future where society is color-coded into castes. The protagonist, Darrow, belongs to the lowest caste, the Reds, who believe they are making Mars habitable for future generations. However, Darrow discovers that the surface has been livable for generations, and his people are enslaved by the ruling Gold caste. Fueled by a desire for justice and the memory of his lost love, Darrow undergoes a transformation to infiltrate the Institute where Golds are trained. His mission is to dismantle the hierarchy from within, even if it means becoming one of his enemies.
Red Rising 5 Key Takeaways
Darrow's Life as a Red
Darrow, a miner, works tirelessly on Mars believing his efforts will benefit future generations. He is part of the lowest caste, Reds, who live harsh lives under false pretenses.
Discovery of Betrayal
Darrow learns that Mars' surface has been livable for generations and that the Reds are merely slaves for the opulent Gold caste. This revelation ignites his desire for revolution.
Transformation and Infiltration
Darrow undergoes a painful metamorphosis to physically and psychologically become a Gold, allowing him to enter the Institute where future leaders of the society are trained.
Survival at the Institute
At the Institute, Darrow faces brutal challenges and deadly competitions. He must use his intelligence and newfound abilities to navigate this treacherous environment.
Rise to Power
Through cunning and strategy, Darrow begins to gain influence among his peers, setting the stage for his ultimate goal of dismantling the oppressive caste system from within.
Top Red Rising Quotes
- 'I live for the dream that my children will be born free,' she says. 'That they will be what they like. That they will own the land their father gave them.'
- 'I live for you,' I say sadly. Eo kisses my cheek. 'Then you must live for more.'
Who should read Red Rising?
Red Rising is ideal for fans of dystopian fiction and those who enjoy stories of rebellion and social justice. Readers who appreciated The Hunger Games or Ender’s Game will find this novel engaging and thought-provoking.
Red Rising Best Reviews
- '[A] spectacular adventure . . . one heart-pounding ride . . . Pierce Brown’s dizzyingly good debut novel evokes The Hunger Games, Lord of the Flies, and Ender’s Game. . . . [Red Rising] has everything it needs to become meteoric.'—Entertainment Weekly
- 'Red Rising ascends above a crowded dystopian field.'—USA Today
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Red Rising FAQs
Is Red Rising a spicy book?
Red Rising contains descriptive violence but no explicit sex scenes. It tackles mature themes that are best discussed with an adult.
What age is Red Rising appropriate for?
Red Rising is suitable for readers aged 15 and above due to its intense and violent content, including mentions of sexual violence.
How many books will be in the Red Rising series?
The Red Rising series includes the original trilogy—Red Rising, Golden Son, and Morningstar—followed by a second series with Iron Gold, Dark Age, and the upcoming Lightbringer, with one more novel planned to finish the series.