Step into the enchanting world of The Unwanteds, where creativity is a superpower and a dystopian society sorts kids into life-or-death fates! Written by Lisa McMann, this middle-grade fantasy series blends the magic of Harry Potter with the stakes of The Hunger Games, following twin brothers Alex and Aaron Stowe as they navigate the rigid land of Quill and the vibrant, secret haven of Artimé. With seven gripping novels, it’s a tale that celebrates individuality and challenges conformity, perfect for young readers dreaming of a world where imagination reigns.
The Unwanteds hooks you from the start with its bold premise: in Quill, thirteen-year-olds are labeled Wanted, Necessary, or Unwanted based on their skills. The artistic Unwanteds face execution—unless they’re whisked away to a magical refuge. This thrilling setup, paired with McMann’s knack for vivid world-building, makes the series a standout in fantasy.
How The Unwanteds Began
Lisa McMann, a New York Times bestselling author known for the Wake trilogy, crafted The Unwanteds inspired by her concerns about arts programs being cut from schools. She imagined a world where creativity is punished, channeling this into a dystopian fantasy for ages 8–15. Published by Aladdin in 2011, the first book sparked a seven-novel series, with McMann’s versatile storytelling blending adventure, magic, and heart.
The Heart of The Unwanteds
The series kicks off with The Unwanteds (2011), where Alex Stowe, labeled Unwanted for his artistic talents, expects death but discovers Artimé—a lush, magical world led by mage Mr. Today. Here, kids learn to wield spells through painting, music, and poetry. Island of Silence (2012) deepens the stakes as Aaron, Alex’s Wanted twin, plots against Artimé, threatening its existence. Island of Fire (2013) sees Alex stepping into leadership, while Island of Legends (2014) introduces mythical creatures and new islands, expanding the saga’s scope.
The Unwanteds shines through its themes of creativity as strength, the power of individuality, and resistance against oppressive norms. Quill’s gray, authoritarian regime contrasts Artimé’s colorful, free-spirited haven, creating a dynamic setting that feels both fantastical and relatable. McMann’s whimsical inventions—like talking blackboards and octagators (alligator-octopus hybrids)—add charm, while the emotional rift between Alex and Aaron grounds the story in family and loyalty.
The series’ style is approachable yet vivid, with fast-paced action and a third-person narrative that weaves humor, heart, and peril. It’s ideal for reluctant readers, though some find the pacing slow until the climactic battles. The magical system, where art becomes spellcraft, is a fresh twist, making every paintbrush stroke or iambic verse a potential weapon.
Why The Unwanteds Resonates
The Unwanteds has carved a niche in middle-grade fantasy, lauded for empowering young readers to embrace their unique talents. Its message—that creativity is a gift, not a flaw—resonates in classrooms and book clubs, especially among fans of dystopian adventures. The series’ blend of magic, rebellion, and coming-of-age themes has earned praise from Kirkus Reviews and readers alike, with over 44,000 Goodreads ratings averaging 4.12 for the first book. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to spark imagination and discussions about societal value systems.
- Publication Years: 2011–2016
- Number of Books: 7
- Spin-Off: Unwanteds Quests series
- Target Age: 8–15
Grab The Unwanteds and dive into a fantasy world where art is magic and every kid can be a hero! Whether you’re a young reader or young at heart, Alex and Artimé’s adventure awaits.