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65 pages 2 hours read

UnWholly

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2012

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Book Brief

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Neal Shusterman

UnWholly

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2012
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dystopian United States • Future

Publication Year

2012

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

860L

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Super Short Summary

UnWholly, the second book in Neal Shusterman's Unwind Dystology, follows various characters, including Starkey, a stork who escapes Juvie-cops, and Connor, who leads a resistance at the Graveyard. While navigating themes of rebellion against the dystopian practice of unwinding teens for organs, the characters face betrayals, coups, and moral dilemmas, ultimately striving for freedom and justice. The book contains violence, trauma, and themes of bodily autonomy.

Suspenseful

Mysterious

Dark

Challenging

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

65,402 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Neal Shusterman’s UnWholly is praised for its gripping plot, well-developed characters, and thought-provoking exploration of ethical dilemmas. Critics laud its seamless continuation from the first book, though some note a slower pace and complex narrative threads. Overall, it successfully expands its dystopian world, engaging both new and returning readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read UnWholly?

Fans of gritty dystopian fiction with strong moral dilemmas will enjoy UnWholly by Neal Shusterman. Ideal for readers who loved The Hunger Games and Divergent, this gripping novel offers a complex, thought-provoking exploration of societal issues and human resilience.

4.4

65,402 ratings

84%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Connor Lassiter

A central figure in the story whose reputation as the "Akron AWOL" inspires others. Known for his leadership and complex personality traits, he is heavily referenced even in his physical absence.

An influential character recognized for being a "clapper who didn't clap," known for his paradoxical nature and the ability to inspire others toward making good decisions.

A key character from the previous installment, she undergoes significant personal and physical changes, maintaining her influence and strong personal convictions despite challenging circumstances.

A novel addition to the series, Cam is the first "rewound" individual, sparking questions about humanity. He struggles with identity while seeking purpose beyond his creation.

Introduced in this installment, he is notable for his magician-like qualities and pursuit of power, serving as a charismatic but self-serving character with personal ambitions.

A new young character, she starts with strong beliefs about unwinding, but her perspective evolves through interactions with pivotal characters, leading to personal growth.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Dystopian United States • Future

Publication Year

2012

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

860L

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