The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann

🧡The Unwanteds by Lisa McMann🧡

Book One in the Unwanteds series. 

Blurb: 

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 occurence 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.

My thoughts:

I love this series so stinkin’ much! 

This was a re-read of mine and oh, how I was reminded of how binge-worthy this book is! 

I don’t know about y’all, but I can get into a really good middle grade series. Even though I’m technically supposed to be over them since, you know, me being a high schooler and all; but I just can’t. 

I know there are some middle grade books that are a little on the childish side but this one just had more of an older vibe?? But enough about middle grade books and all that boring nonsense.. let’s get to the good stuff! 

One thing that I can relate to with Alex is being left handed. A shoutout to all my lefty folk! I feel like there should be more lefty’s in books, you just don’t see that very often.🙃

This book had me wanting to be an Unwanted and live in Artimè. I consider myself an artsy and creative-ish person so I could totally share in their love of music and drawing, and of course magic! I really liked the character buildup, it was refreshing. Though I really didn’t care for Aaron’s behavior and bad attitude to everyone, that really got on my nerves.😐

One of my favorite characters is Simber. Arghh. He is just so lovable and hilarious! You’ll see what I mean more and more as we get through the rest of this series.😉 I really want my own Simber, but I always have to remind myself that it could never happen, he’s only a fictional animal. LOL, no but for real, I really want one! 

⚠️Age recommendation: 11-12+⚠️

My rating: 4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Sexual Content: 

A cheek kiss, some light embraces, and holding hands. Attraction and the feelings of liking someone or admiring them. (All this is very light). Alex noticing that a certain girl was growing up and didn’t look like a little girl anymore (this is a notice of her maturity and the way her face looks). Some small tingles and warmth. The emotions of a teenage boy. 

Profanity:

None

Violence: 

Some fight scenes, death, and killing. (All in a battle) Whenever Quill has Unwanted kids, they are sent to their deaths; and the Wanteds and Necessaries who are not “useful” to Quill anymore, are sent to the Ancient’s Sector, where they are annihilated also. Mentions of a killing spell, and wanting to learn one to defend one’s self.

Trigger Warning:‼️ 

The Unwanteds are taught magic and spells. There are mythical creatures created by Mr. Today. Parents are supposed to forget their Unwanted kids, immediately, when they are sentenced to death. Parents are also very much out of the picture. Although, Mr. Today and all the other creatures and teachers, have authority over the kids. 

POV’s: Multiple POV switches between most of the main characters. 

Number of Pages: 414

This was a great younger read! I would say it’s good for the recommended age, for boys and girls, and even for teens. I can’t wait to review the second book of this series soon!😁