REVIEW: The Host (Stephenie Meyer)

Book: The Host
Author: Stephenie Meyer

My rating: 5/5.

Premise: Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of human hosts while leaving their bodies intact. Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, didn't expect to find its former tenant refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. As Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of Jared, a human who still lives in hiding, Wanderer begins to yearn for a man she's never met. Reluctant allies, Wanderer and Melanie set off to search for the man they both love.

I first read this book as a teenager and something about it keeps me coming back! The concept is quite interesting in my opinion - if someone else lived our lives, how would they respond, act, feel, etc. The whole book explores different aspects of what it means to be human. The souls provide an idyllic society where everyone lives in harmony and trusts one another - such a contrast with human society. The book reflects the best and the worst of humanity, from love and hope to anger and selfishness. Along with this deeper theme, we have some sci-fi elements and romance (who doesn't like a love triangle/square!). For me, it's a comfort read and I already want to read it again! 

The film adaptation of this book is also pretty good (and one I'd happily watch on repeat). It has a good cast, including Saoirse Ronan, Max Irons and Jake Abel. I like how they made the world of the souls look - white and clean and tidy - which made a nice contrast to where the human rebels live. They do cut out most of the parts where Wanda talks about other worlds, which I can see why although I did miss it! Overall, a good film!