The essence of Tahereh Mafi’s Shatter Me series revolves around Juliette Ferrars, a young woman whose touch is lethal. Socially isolated and deemed a danger to others, she is imprisoned for a crime inadvertently committed. The narrative commences with her confinement and explores her internal struggle with her destructive ability.
The significance of this premise lies in its exploration of themes such as power, control, and societal prejudice. The story allows for an examination of how individuals deemed “different” are treated and the potential for both destruction and good that resides within perceived flaws. Historically, the concept of dangerous abilities has been used to explore societal anxieties and the fear of the unknown.