“Imagination runs wild in this creative adventure.” —Brandon Mull, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Beyonders and Fablehaven series

Twin brothers have their fates diverge in this first book in the New York Times bestselling middle grade dystopian series that’s a “fun mix of magic and science” (Publishers Weekly).

Every year in Quill, thirteen-year-olds are sorted into categories: the strong, intelligent Wanteds who go to university, hardy Necessaries who take on menial tasks, and the artistic Unwanteds who are sent to their deaths.

In a nearly unprecedented verdict, thirteen-year-old twins Alex and Aaron are separated. Alex can barely keep it together as he’s led away from his Wanted brother to his own Unwanted fate. But when Alex reaches the death farm, he discovers it’s really a mirage hiding a stunning secret: the land of Artimé.

Each child in Artimé cultivates their creative abilities and learns how to use them magically, weaving spells through paintbrushes and musical instruments. It’s a whole new world and a whole new life for Alex, but he still can’t help but miss Aaron.

But there’s a threat looming on the horizon that threatens the survival of Artimé that will pit brother against brother—stretching their bond until it just might snap.