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Nov 05, 2018Vilka rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
A fast-paced thriller/adventure set in an America that has resolved the organ donor shortage and the abortion issue with a compromise: children's lives are sacred from conception until age 13, but from 13 until they turn 18 parents or guardians can choose to sign them over to be 'unwound': used for parts. This is not considered killing because the children 'live' in various pieces in recipients' bodies. The story follows three teens on the run: a boy signed over by his overwhelmed parents for being a troublemaker, a girl in foster care signed over to save orphanage costs, and a boy who was groomed to be an Unwind from birth as part of his parents' sense of religious charity. The action starts almost immediately and the teens' struggle for survival is vivid and realistic (though not gory). Moral questions about unwinding are pondered from each teen's perspective without slowing things down or feeling 'preachy', and the world of 'Unwinding' feels very believable. Overall a quick, entertaining read, and a good conversation-starter!