Unwind

Unwind


By: Neal Shusterman
Reviewed by: Cindy, 14
Rating: It was amazing!


In the future, during the Second Civil War, also known as the Heartland War, a decision was made. This decision would appeal to both sides and stop the war. This decision was "Unwinding."

Unwinding is the process of "retroactively aborting" a child.They are "harvested" while technically still kept alive. From the time you are born until the time you reach the age of reason, you are safe. When you are thirteen, your parents can chose to have you unwound. But if you can survive until you are eighteen, you may have a chance.

The three main characters in this story are each unique in their own way. Connor is a hot head who does not think his actions through. Risa is a musician who knows how to take care of herself. Finally, their is Lev, the religious boy who wants to be unwound. The interactions, the responses, and the development are all realistic.

The plot itself feels like a roller coaster. You are always wondering what is going to happen next. Some scenes tore me down and brought me to tears.

This story is NOT for little kids. The moral questions asked in here should not be introduced to young minds yet. There is an attempted rape scene and a description of unwinding. The details of unwinding are not graphic and that is exactly what makes it so powerful. The things they leave out make the passage so much more emotional.

The ending is satisfying but not perfect. Which is exactly why it was a wonderful ending. I would recommend this book to anyone mature enough to handle it.


Recommended to: 15 and older