“The Hunger Games meets Harry Potter” in the first installment of this New York Times–bestselling dystopian adventure series (Kirkus Reviews).

Every year in the totalitarian land of Quill, thirteen-year-olds are sorted into categories: the strong, intelligent Wanteds go to university, and the artistic Unwanteds are sent to their deaths. When thirteen-year-old Alex discovers his Unwanted fate, he is separated from his family, including his Wanted twin brother, Aaron. But behind the “death farm” where he expects to be eliminated, Alex encounters a secret place called Artime.

In Artime, children are taught to enhance their creative abilities with magic, weaving spells through paintbrushes and musical instruments. Suddenly, everything Alex ever knew is wondrously transformed before his eyes. But as Alex and Aaron’s bond stretches across their separation, a threat arises for the survival of Artime that will pit brother against brother in an ultimate, magical battle.