Book Log: The Unnameables

[penmage]

The Unnameables by Ellen Booraem

Medford Runyuin lives on an island called Island. Everything and everyone who lives on Island is named for their purpose. Everyone except Medford. Medford, a foundling from Mainland whose parents died at sea, is saddled with a meaningless name, yet another reminder that he doesn’t fit in. To make matters worse, Medford is hiding a secret. It a secret so deep and terrible that he can’t tell anyone—not his foster father Boyce Carver, not his best friend Prudy Carpenter.

On Island, the things that are valued are Useful things. Things without a purpose are useless, and therefore nameless. And if anyone knew that Medford was spending time making Unnameable things—he would be exiled from Island, the only home he has ever known.

But something is about to change for Medford and the people of Island. There is someone coming to Island, and he is going to expose Medford’s secret. And when he is done, nothing and no one on Island will ever be the same again.

One of the things I love about this book is the fact that Unnameable items aren’t considered bad because of some long-lost superstition or ridiculousness that makes it hard to take these people seriously. The people of Island consider useless items bad because making them takes time away from making items that their town desperately needs to survive and thrive. If you waste your time on something that is not essential, you are endangering the town. It makes sense, and I like that.

Of course, that can never be the bottom line, and like all good books, this one turns Island’s traditions on its head.

The other thing I love about this book is the humor. It has a sweet sly humor that peeks out at the most unexpected of times—quite like real life, actually. There are moments in this book that made me laugh out loud—things I couldn’t really explain, because the reason they were so funny was built up on everything that had happened in the book so far. There’s a good humor and a good nature to this book that’s welcoming and comforting and a joy to read.

And then there’s Medford and his Goatman, who are unforgettable.

I won’t try to make sense of the Goatman. Or the time period where this book is meant to take place. In some ways it reminds me of Ember a teeny-tiny bit, a society set off from time and the modern world, living on their own, their traditions warped and changed by isolation.

I enjoyed this book so very much. What it has to say about the importance and value of art, and friendship and following your heart—it’s all important to hear. But more importantly, it’s a joy to read.

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

It is I, your swapper again. Tomorrow was intended to be my get-to-the-post-office day, but there is a chance the weather will thwart.

The gift may end up being late-ish, for which I apologize in advance.

[penmage.livejournal.com]

I totally understand, O Mysterious Swapper. And don't worry--late-ish gifts are still lovely and much appreciated :).