Book Review: The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann

The Unwanteds
Unwanteds #1
Author: Lisa McMann
Reading Level: Middle Grade
Genre: Science Fiction/Dystopian
Released: August 30th 2011
Review Source: Purchased

Every year in Quill, thirteen-year-olds are sorted into categories: the strong, intelligent Wanteds go to university, and the artistic Unwanteds are sent to their deaths.

Thirteen-year-old Alex tries his hardest to be stoic when his fate is announced as Unwanted, even while leaving behind his twin, Aaron, a Wanted. Upon arrival at the destination where he expected to be eliminated, however, Alex discovers a stunning secret— behind the mirage of the "death farm" there is instead a place called Artime.

In Artime, each child is taught to cultivate their creative abilities and learn how to use them magically, weaving spells through paintbrushes and musical instruments. Everything Alex has ever known changes before his eyes, and it's a wondrous transformation.

But it's a rare, unique occurrence for twins to be separated between Wanted and Unwanted, and as Alex and Aaron's bond stretches across their separation, a threat arises for the survival of Artime that will pit brother against brother in an ultimate, magical battle.

So how many moms out there had students with summer reading assignments? Well one option for my middle schooler was to choose your favorite book and write a review for others. Knowing that her mom and big brother loves books and writing reviews, I believe she picked the best assignment on the list! - Deitre

I started off reading Junie B. Jones and The Magic Tree House. Then I began to drift away from that type of genre. I knew I wanted to read something more action filled. Later on it felt like I was forcing myself to read books that really weren't my cup of tea. Then one day while at the book store I stumbled upon a book that instantly pulled me in. It was called The Unwanteds. I began to read a few pages and was hooked. I didn't buy the book that day. However, I enjoyed it so much I downloaded the sample to my iPod. Eventually, my mom got me the book. A bookish friend of hers had gotten it signed by the author just for me. I couldn't stop reading it. It was the first time I'd ever really been hooked to a book.

This is an action packed book that leaves you in suspense after each chapter. In this story, children caught being creative in any way were immediately sentenced to death. By the day of the "Purge" the thirteen year olds were split into groups of the Wanteds, Necessaries, and the Unwanteds.

A set of identical twin brothers Aaron (wanted) and Alex (unwanted) knew that that would be the last day they'd ever see each other or so they thought. It is said that the wanteds are sent to learn and become leaders and the unwanteds are sent to a death farm to die. Do the twins ever reunite?
In my opinion, the author Lisa McMann has done an exquisite job when it comes down to detail and being able to paint a picture in your head of whats happening in the story. This book by far is one of my absolute favorites. - Princess's Review

Joshua's review

So what did your students have to read over the summer? We would love for you to share.