Island of Silence

by Lisa McMann Narrated by James Langton

Overview

The second book in the middle-grade dystopian fantasy series that Kirkus Reviews calls “The Hunger Games meets Harry Potter,” by New York Times bestselling author Lisa McMann.

Following the life-altering events at the conclusion of The Unwanteds, the stark world of Quill and the magical haven of Artimé are now home to whoever wants to live there, whether they are Wanteds, Unwanteds, or Necessaries.
**** In Artimé, Alex Stowe and his friends continue to hone their artistic magical spells while welcoming newcomers, wondering how long this peace between Quill and Artimé will last. Alex is stunned when Mr. Today comes to him with a very special request-one Alex questions his readiness for, until circumstances offer a dramatic answer.
**** And back in Quill, Aaron Stowe, Alex's twin, faces a very different path. Devastated by his loss of status after Justine's defeat and seething with rage toward Alex, Aaron is stealthily planning his revenge and return to power.
**** Alex and Aaron's separate stories proceed with suspenseful pacing, colliding in a stunning climax that elevates sibling rivalry to epic proportions and leaves the fate of both worlds hanging in the balance.

Editorial Reviews

DECEMBER 2012 - AudioFile

McMann visits the contrasting worlds of Artimé and Quill for the second time. Twin brothers Alex and Aaron once again find themselves on opposite sides as Wanteds, Unwanteds, and Necessaries begin traveling between the now open gates between worlds. From the start, the word “Artimé” simply rolls off of the tongue of narrator James Langton. He delights with deliberate pacing, crisp pronunciation, and intimate characterizations. Middle-grade listeners will appreciate Langton’s range as he portrays power-hungry Aaron and less-than-confident Alex , as well as mysterious strangers from unknown lands and enchanted statues. E.B. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine

Kirkus Reviews

This Unwanteds (2011) sequel lacks the magic of the first book in more ways than one. Now that both Artimé and Quill are free states and their rulers continue to work toward mutual peace, Artimé's leader, mage Marcus Today, who's worked every day for the last 50 years, wants to take a holiday. He taps former Unwanted Alex to train to serve in his place. Instead of focusing on the students' creativity and burgeoning magical abilities, this second novel delves into leadership and gives readers plenty to think about concerning qualities and motivation. The third-person narration alternates between Alex and his doubts in his ability to lead and his vengeful twin brother, Aaron, who, after getting kicked out of Quill's university and losing his Wanted status, plots to become the new high priest of Quill. With the help of secret agents, Aaron hopes to start another war with Artimé and take over their land as well--even if it means defeating his brother. Aaron's schemes take so long to materialize, however, that there's little action for stretches of the story. Despite the occasional slow pacing, the discovery of surrounding islands, including one that renders its captives mute in a horrific manner, lends enough adventure to keep fans satisfied. A cliffhanger ending with plenty of unsolved mysteries ensures the return of readers in the next installment. (Fantasy. 9-13)

Product Details

BN ID:	2940170480982
Publisher:	Simon & Schuster
Publication date:	09/04/2012
Series:	Unwanteds Quests Series , #2
Edition description:	Unabridged
Age Range:	8 - 11 Years

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