Book Review: Unwind by Neal Shusterman


Unwind is the first installment in a young adult science fiction dystology. The other installments are Unwholly, Unsouled, Undivided, and Unbound.



Back cover:

The Second Civil War was fought over reproductive rights. The chilling resolution: Life is inviolable from the moment of conception until age thirteen. Between the ages of thirteen and eighteen, however, parents can have their child "unwound," whereby all of the child's organs are transplanted into different donors, so life doesn't technically end. Connor is too difficult for his parents to control. Risa, a ward of the state, is not talented enough to be kept alive. And Lev is a tithe, a child conceived and raised to be unwound. Together, they may have a chance to escape - and to survive.



Shusterman takes dystopia to the next level with his science fiction novel Unwind. This book contains the most authentic characters I’ve ever read, a chilling world, and ceaseless action. Yet, Shusterman writes from the heart and presents readers with new questions through his work. Unwind made me believe that young adult novels can be read by anybody and that they can make a difference in how we view the world.

In the novel is a world just like ours - but with a cruel twist. Unwinding, the dismemberment and transplantation of the entire human body - and arguably, the soul, too. With so much rapid technological advancement today, it is easy to imagine unwinding as a plausible reality, making the novel downright terrifying. In this way, Shusterman creates a masterful blend of familiar and strange elements for a unique and plausible story world.

Furthermore, each character’s story is different despite their obvious struggle: staying whole. Shusterman impresses readers with realistic teenage voices, distinct and familiar to the younger audience. Every character is used in a meaningful way, including supporting cast members.

Additionally, the story is well-crafted. Within the pages of ceaseless action is authentic description that comes straight from the heads of the characters and humorous dialogue. The story pulled at my heartstrings, made my heart pound, and ended with a satisfying climax that made me tear up.  

Moreover, Shusterman pushes readers to think about uncomfortable topics but nonetheless engages and entertains. He ponders abortion, life, death, the existence of a soul, and human nature but never takes a side on the issues himself. His own opinions are cleverly omitted, leaving readers to think about and discuss the questions for themselves. In a world so politically divided, that’s refreshing.

Unwind is a breeze to read with short chapters, thrilling action, romance, and drama. If you are looking for a book to fill that dystopia/sci-fi-shaped hole in your heart, try it out. You won’t be disappointed.

Rating: 5/5 stars
Recommendation: Elementary/Middle School +

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