Editorial Content for Unplugged

UNPLUGGED, a new young adult novel by Donna Freitas, the author of other popular novels such as THE GORGEOUS GAME and SURVIVAL KIT, follows the life of Skylar Cruz, an average girl who lives in the App World, a virtual world where everyone is plugged into the glitz of virtual life from their real bodies. In the App World, citizens are obsessed with celebrities, paying for expensive apps to watch their every move and constantly using apps to modify their appearance into that of models.

 

 

At 17, Skylar is supposed to get the chance to unplug and return to the real world during Service, like every 17-year-old in the App World. She hopes to see her mother and older sister for the first time since she was plugged into the App World as a child. However, just before Skylar turns 17, Service is cancelled and the border between the App World and the real world closes. In hopes of seeing her family again, Skylar decides to cross the border illegally, forsaking her surrogate family and her best friend in the App World, Inara. Along the way, Skylar finds people are much more complicated than their first appearances would suggest, and discovers her important role in the politics of both the App World and the real world. In addition, there is a slight element of romance to the novel, as Skylar begins to develop feelings for Rain, another unplugged teen who was a celebrity of the App World.

 

Freitas’ new novel is both original and frightening, suggesting humans have become so dependent on their electronics that they wish to become one with them. The detail and thought put into UNPLUGGED makes it well worth the read. Unlike other science fiction novels that discuss new worlds and new technology, there is no confusion for the reader as Freitas’ world-building feels clear and seamless. Although Skylar’s role as a heroine feels a bit cliched, the beautiful imagery of novel negates the sometimes cheesy characters. The imagination behind the idea of two worlds, one virtual and one real, poses interesting questions that reflect upon the dependence people feel towards technology. One of Freitas’ biggest accomplishments, however, is how casually she includes characters of color and characters of multiple sexual orientations. Her inclusiveness is another step forward in the diversity of young adult fiction.

 

UNPLUGGED is perfect for any reader who enjoys science fiction or appreciates a fast-paced, exciting read. Fans of THE HUNGER GAMES or UGLIES will find thems engaged in this novel, and will look forward to the continuing of the series.