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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Cinder summary
Brief summary
Cinder is a captivating retelling of the classic Cinderella story, set in a futuristic world where a young cyborg mechanic uncovers secrets about her past and becomes entangled in a dangerous political conspiracy. It's a thrilling blend of science fiction and fairy tale.
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Cinder
Summary of key ideas
Unveiling a Futuristic Cinderella
In Cinder by Marissa Meyer, we are introduced to a futuristic world where Earth is plagued by a deadly disease and humans coexist with androids. The story revolves around Linh Cinder, a gifted mechanic who is also a cyborg. She lives in New Beijing with her stepmother and two stepsisters, enduring their disdain and mistreatment due to her cyborg status.
As the story unfolds, we learn that Cinder has no memory of her life before being turned into a cyborg. She earns her living as a mechanic, and it is during one of her jobs that she meets Prince Kai, the heir to the Eastern Commonwealth. He brings his broken android to her for repair, and a connection sparks between them.
Unraveling Cinder's True Identity
Meanwhile, the world is in turmoil due to the deadly plague, and the Lunar people, who live on the moon, are threatening war. The Lunar queen, Levana, is a ruthless ruler who is determined to marry Prince Kai and take over Earth. To achieve her goal, she uses her mind-controlling powers, known as glamour, to manipulate people.
Amidst this chaos, Cinder's life takes a dramatic turn when her stepsister contracts the deadly plague. Her stepmother, blaming Cinder for the illness, volunteers her for plague research, a death sentence. It is during these tests that Cinder discovers her true identity - she is Princess Selene, the long-lost Lunar princess and the rightful heir to the Lunar throne.
Challenges and Revelations
As Cinder grapples with this revelation, she also learns that she is immune to the plague. This discovery makes her a valuable asset in finding a cure for the disease. However, her stepmother, who is aware of Cinder's true identity, sees her as a threat and tries to have her killed.
With the help of her android friend, Iko, and Dr. Erland, a scientist working on the plague cure, Cinder escapes and sets out to stop Queen Levana's plans. She also aims to reclaim her Lunar throne and prevent a war between Earth and the moon. Along the way, she uncovers more about her past and her Lunar abilities, including the power to control bioelectricity.
Confronting the Lunar Queen
As the story reaches its climax, Cinder attends the royal ball, where Queen Levana plans to marry Prince Kai. Disguised as a Lunar noblewoman, Cinder confronts the queen and reveals her true identity. She also exposes Levana's manipulative tactics and her role in the plague outbreak.
Despite the chaos that ensues, Cinder manages to escape with Prince Kai, who is now aware of her Lunar heritage. The book ends with Cinder embracing her destiny as Princess Selene and preparing to lead a revolution against Queen Levana.
Final Thoughts
In Cinder, Marissa Meyer skillfully weaves a futuristic retelling of the classic Cinderella story, infusing it with science fiction elements and political intrigue. The book introduces us to a strong and resourceful protagonist in Cinder, who is not your typical damsel in distress. Instead, she is a cyborg princess with a mission to save her people and her world.
As the first installment in the Lunar Chronicles series, Cinder sets the stage for an epic saga filled with action, romance, and unexpected twists. It leaves readers eager to explore more of Meyer's imaginative world and follow Cinder's journey as she embraces her Lunar heritage and fights for justice.
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What is Cinder about?
Cinder is a captivating retelling of the classic Cinderella story, set in a futuristic world where cyborgs and androids exist. Written by Marissa Meyer, the book follows a young mechanic named Cinder who uncovers a dangerous secret about her past while navigating a forbidden romance and a looming war. With its unique blend of science fiction and fairy tale elements, this novel is sure to keep readers hooked until the very end.
Cinder Review
Cinder (2012) by Marissa Meyer is an exciting retelling of the classic Cinderella story with a twist - the main character is a cyborg mechanic. Here's why this book is definitely worth a read:
- It combines fairy tale elements with science fiction, creating a unique and captivating story that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
- The book explores themes of identity, love, and sacrifice, adding depth and complexity to the familiar Cinderella narrative.
- With its strong, independent protagonist and a thrilling plot, this book proves that fairy tale retellings can be both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Who should read Cinder?
- Readers who enjoy futuristic retellings of classic fairy tales
- People who appreciate strong, independent female protagonists
- Those interested in stories with themes of identity, prejudice, and social justice
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Cinder FAQs
What is the main message of Cinder?
The main message of Cinder is that anyone can overcome their circumstances and find their true identity.
How long does it take to read Cinder?
The reading time for Cinder varies depending on the reader's speed, but it typically takes several hours. The Blinkist summary, however, can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Cinder a good book? Is it worth reading?
Cinder is a captivating book that combines elements of science fiction and fantasy. It is definitely worth reading for fans of fairy tale retellings and futuristic settings.
Who is the author of Cinder?
The author of Cinder is Marissa Meyer.
What to read after Cinder?
If you're wondering what to read next after Cinder, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel S. F. Heller
- Click by Rom and Ori Brafman
- Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
- Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
- The Truth About Trust by David DeSteno
- Why We Love by Helen Fisher
- Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler
- Sex at Dawn by Christopher Ryan and Cacilda Jethá
- A General Theory of Love by Thomas Lewis, Fari Amini and Richard Lannon
- The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by John M. Gottman and Nan Silver