Island of Silence

Gr 4–7—This sequel to McMann's Unwanteds (S & S, 2011) begins in a much happier place than its predecessor. The dictatorial leader of the regimented land of Quill is dead, and its citizens are now free to travel or relocate to the magical land of Artimé. Mister Today, Artimé's leader, is grooming Alex Stowe for leadership, and Alex and his friends Meghan, Lani, and Samheed continue to be some of the most creative and talented magicians of Artimé. In Quill, Alex's power-hungry twin, Aaron, gathers support to attack Artimé and rule Quill. As Quillens begin sporadic raids into Artimé, two children wash up on Artimé's beach, their necks pierced with iron thorns. In the space of a single, horrible day, Alex's friends vanish, Quillen forces attack, and Mister Today disappears. It is up to Alex to don the mantle of leadership and save the day. This work does not stand on its own but it does serve nicely as a continuation of the series. McMann allows her characters to grow as, indeed, does her world. The situations follow logically, and the author gives readers some hope for the future, despite the dire circumstances at the conclusion.—Eric Norton, McMillan Memorial Library, Wisconsin Rapids, WI