Marie Lu’s Legend, Prodigy, and Champion

In 7th grade, I recall having to read the book Legend for class, and it was one of the first dystopian fictions I had ever read. After finishing the book, I was captivated enough to read the next book in the series in my free time that same school year. Unfortunately, however, I couldn’t manage to find the third book, Champion. That is, until recently when a friend of mine said she had it and could lend it to me—so, I immediately knew I had to immerse myself back into Marie Lu’s world. The book follows two very different teens, June Iparis and Day, who get pulled into a much bigger fight than either of them could’ve participated. It’s full of political drama, fast pacing, and also perhaps an enemies-to-lovers dynamic 👀

The series opens with Legend, in a future version of the western United States, ruled by a nation called the Republic, with a highly controlling and militarized government. We meet June, a prodigy raised by the Republic and Day, the Republic’s most wanted criminal who lives in the slums and survives on crime. What makes the book really compelling is the two points of view it gives. We get to see Day, a kid who has been hurt by the Republic his entire life, and June, someone who starts the book trusting the Republic entirely. Watching these perspectives clash and slowly shift is one of the best parts of the book. The story moves very quickly with short chapters and constant tension, making it hard to put down.

I will try my best to avoid spoilers describing the next two books. Prodigy raises the stakes even more, with both June and Day on the run because they are being hunted. The scope of the story expands beyond solely the Republic, introducing new factions. This book moves much deeper into morally gray ideas. June and Day don’t always agree on what the best choice is, and they’re strained by guilt, grief, and impossible decisions. Unlike in the first book where the enemy is clear, Prodigy questions if anything they’re doing is even the correct choice. 

Champion is the most emotionally heavy of the three books. Time has passed, but guess what, the world is still unstable as ever. A deadly plague is spreading, political tensions rising even more, and June and Day once again must confront the Republic. This time, however, the consequences are even greater. The book offers an honest conclusion that feels realistic but hits hard.

So, to sum everything up, Marie Lu blends action with emotion really well, so you care not just about what happens, but who it happens to. The writing is accessible, the pacing is quick, and the themes of government control and inequality are still very relevant today (coincidentally, I’m finishing this post up during the ICE walk outs). If you like dystopian novels that focus on both big ideas and strong characters, the first three Legend books are definitely worth reading! I’m aware that there’s also a fourth book but for the meantime I haven’t been able to find it :P

Peace!

-L.J. Lamera