Gather initial thoughts and broad opinions about the book.

1. How did your initial expectations of Divergent compare to your actual reading experience? Have you read other dystopian novels like The Hunger Games or The Giver? Compare Divergent’s exploration of societal control to the primary messages of those stories.

2. What are your thoughts on the five-faction system as a solution to human conflict? Do you subscribe to the premise that human personality traits are the root cause of warfare? Why or why not?

3. The novel opens with Beatrice's reflections on her current identity and faction. How effectively does this opening establish the key themes and conflicts that drive the story?

Encourage readers to connect the book’s themes and characters with their personal experiences.

1. Which faction would you choose if you lived in this society? How would that choice impact your relationships with family and friends?

2. Tris struggles with balancing her various traits throughout the story, particularly her selflessness and her bravery. Can you recall a time when you had to choose between helping others and protecting yourself? How did you handle this situation?