"Alis" by Naomi Rich

The main character Alis is faced with the choice of protecting friendship or defending her life. Alis begins the story as a rebelling fourteen year old and ends the story, a mature young adult who took charge of her own life. Her Christian Community is making her marry someone against her will and as you read her decision about what she will do is will planned. Her journey of escaping and surviving lasts two years (most of the book). Though out that time she meets interesting people who become friends and enemies, she also reunites with people you would never aspect. “Alis” is filled with themes. Alis has mature themes such as Christian community life, growing up, standing up for what you believe in, staying true, and having hope when all is lost. These are all clearly shown throughout “Alis” and most of the themes are intertwined within each other, but they are easy to recognize. Conflicts are threaded all in “Alis”. The biggest conflicts for Alis is whether to betray a love one or sacrifice herself, go along with to her parents or seek her own happiness, and do what is right for herself or do what is right for others. There aren’t a lot of obvious symbols but if you read some passages a couple times more symbols will pop out. The evil Elder is symbolic for all of the corruption and evil going on in the Christian communities, Mistress Elizabeth is figurative for the kindness and gentleness of the Communities, Luke stands for the possibility of young love, and Alis represents first rebellion and then symbolizes freedom choose your own life. I love this book, I have read many books and this by far is the best, it kept me entertained the entire time I read it. If you like rebellion, conflicts, excitement and surprises you should really read “Alis”.