Jett's Unwanted Retreat

Jett Baranov, the spoiled son of a tech billionaire, is sent to the Oasis of Mind and Body Wellness, a tech-free retreat in Arkansas, to curb his reckless behavior. Used to a life of luxury and technology, Jett is resistant to the camp's strict rules and wellness philosophy. His father, Vladimir, hopes the retreat will teach Jett discipline and responsibility. Jett, however, views it as a punishment and is determined to rebel against the camp's restrictions.

Grace's Oasis Devotion

Grace Atwater, a regular at the Oasis, embraces the camp's philosophy of wellness and meditation. She is enthusiastic about the activities and the teachings of Magnus Fellini, the camp's founder. Grace believes in the camp's mission to promote a healthy lifestyle and is initially skeptical of Jett's disruptive presence. Her dedication to the Oasis is unwavering, and she hopes Jett will eventually see its benefits.

Tyrell's Allergy Struggles

Tyrell Karrigan, another camper, struggles with severe allergies that make his stay at the Oasis challenging. Despite his discomfort, Tyrell tries to fit in and participate in the camp's activities. He becomes friends with Jett and Grace, finding solace in their company. Tyrell's allergies often serve as a source of humor and frustration, highlighting the camp's emphasis on health and wellness.

Jett's Rebellion Begins

Frustrated by the camp's rules, Jett begins to rebel by smuggling in candy bars and other contraband. He enlists Tyrell and Grace in his schemes, creating a black market for sweets among the campers. Jett's antics escalate as he attempts to undermine the camp's authority, leading to tension with the camp's staff and other campers. His rebellious nature is both a source of conflict and camaraderie among the group.

Secret Lizard Discovery

Jett, Grace, and Tyrell discover a lizard, which they name Needles, and secretly keep it as a pet. The lizard becomes a symbol of their rebellion and a bonding experience for the trio. They go to great lengths to hide Needles from the camp staff, leading to humorous and tense situations. The lizard's presence challenges the camp's no-pet policy and adds an element of intrigue to their summer.

Candy Bar Blackmail

Brandon Bucholz, another camper, discovers Jett's candy stash and blackmails him for a share. Jett is forced to comply to keep Needles a secret. The situation escalates as more campers become involved, creating a network of candy bar exchanges. The blackmail highlights the campers' desperation for a taste of home and the lengths they will go to defy the camp's rules.

Brooklynne's Hidden Identity

Brooklynne Feldman, a mysterious camper, is revealed to be the daughter of Magnus Fellini, the camp's founder. Her true identity shocks Jett, Grace, and Tyrell, who feel betrayed by her secrecy. Brooklynne explains her desire to be treated like any other camper, not as the founder's daughter. Her revelation adds complexity to the group's dynamics and challenges their perceptions of the camp.

Ivory's Sinister Scheme

Jett uncovers a sinister plot by Ivory, the camp's meditation pathfinder, who is using hypnosis to manipulate campers' parents into donating money to a fake charity. The funds are used to support Ivory's lavish lifestyle and an illegal alligator farm. Jett's discovery puts him in danger as he attempts to expose Ivory's scheme. The revelation forces the campers to confront the darker side of the Oasis.

Jett's Explosive Plan

Determined to stop Ivory, Jett devises a plan to expose her by setting off fireworks at the alligator farm. His plan goes awry, leading to a chaotic confrontation with Ivory and her henchmen. Grace and Tyrell come to Jett's aid, and together they manage to alert the authorities. The explosive events bring the campers closer together and highlight their bravery and resourcefulness.

The Truth Unveiled

With Ivory's arrest and the exposure of her scheme, the Oasis is saved from scandal. Magnus Fellini vows to restore the camp's reputation and ensure it remains a place of genuine wellness. Jett, Grace, Tyrell, and Brooklynne reflect on their summer, realizing they have grown and changed through their experiences. The camp's future is uncertain, but the bonds formed among the campers remain strong.

Characters

Jett Baranov

Jett is the son of a tech billionaire, sent to the Oasis to learn discipline. Initially resistant, he rebels against the camp's rules but eventually uncovers a sinister plot. His journey from spoiled brat to unlikely hero highlights his growth and the impact of genuine friendship.

Grace Atwater

Grace is a dedicated camper who believes in the Oasis's mission. Her initial skepticism of Jett turns into camaraderie as they bond over shared experiences. Grace's unwavering belief in the camp is challenged by the revelations of Ivory's scheme.

Tyrell Karrigan

Tyrell struggles with allergies but finds friendship and acceptance at the Oasis. His loyalty to Jett and Grace is tested by the camp's challenges. Tyrell's humor and resilience make him a key member of the group.

Brooklynne Feldman

Brooklynne hides her identity as Magnus Fellini's daughter to be treated like any other camper. Her revelation adds complexity to the group's dynamics. Brooklynne's knowledge of the camp proves invaluable in uncovering Ivory's plot.

Ivory Novis

Ivory uses her position to manipulate campers' parents into donating to a fake charity. Her sinister scheme is exposed by Jett, leading to her downfall. Ivory's actions challenge the camp's integrity and force a reevaluation of its mission.

Magnus Fellini

Magnus, the founder of the Oasis, is dedicated to promoting wellness. His trust in Ivory is betrayed, but he remains committed to the camp's mission. Magnus's leadership is tested by the revelations of Ivory's scheme.

Matt Louganis

Matt is tasked with keeping Jett out of trouble. Despite his initial frustration, he grows to care for Jett and supports him in exposing Ivory. Matt's journey reflects the camp's impact on both campers and staff.

Brandon Bucholz

Brandon discovers Jett's candy stash and uses it to blackmail him. His actions highlight the campers' desperation for a taste of home. Brandon's involvement in the scheme adds tension and humor to the story.

Plot Devices

The Oasis

The Oasis serves as the story's primary setting, a place where campers are forced to disconnect from technology and embrace wellness. Its strict rules and philosophy create conflict and drive character development.

Needles the Lizard

Needles, the secretly kept lizard, symbolizes the campers' rebellion against the camp's rules. The lizard becomes a bonding experience for Jett, Grace, and Tyrell, highlighting their friendship and shared defiance.

Ivory's Hypnosis

Ivory's use of hypnosis to manipulate campers' parents is a central plot device. Her scheme drives the story's conflict and ultimately leads to her downfall. The hypnosis challenges the camp's integrity and forces a reevaluation of its mission.

Analysis

"Unplugged" explores themes of privilege, rebellion, and personal growth. Jett's journey from spoiled brat to unlikely hero highlights the impact of genuine friendship and the importance of doing the right thing. The story challenges the notion of wellness and questions the integrity of those in positions of power. Through humor and adventure, the book encourages readers to reflect on their own values and the impact of their actions on others.

Last updated: April 9, 2025