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47 pages 1 hour read

Not Wanted on the Voyage

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1984

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Book Brief

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Timothy Findley

Not Wanted on the Voyage

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1984
Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ark • Biblical Era

Publication Year

1984

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Not Wanted on the Voyage by Timothy Findley reimagines the story of Noah's Ark with elements of magical realism, focusing on the dysfunctional Noyes family as they navigate a world reshaped by a cataclysmic Flood and an absent, depressed God. Amid mythical creatures and arcane magic, the family struggles to make sense of their new reality and their deteriorating interpersonal dynamics. The novel includes themes of abuse and violence.

Mysterious

Dark

Fantastical

Contemplative

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.3

7,152 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Timothy Findley's Not Wanted on the Voyage is praised for its imaginative retelling of the Noah's Ark story, enriched with human and mythical elements. Readers commend its rich character development and intricate themes. However, some find its dark tone and shifts in narrative perspective jarring. Overall, it is a bold, thought-provoking novel that challenges conventional narratives.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Not Wanted on the Voyage?

Readers who appreciate darkly reimagined biblical tales, rich character development, and social criticism will enjoy Timothy Findley's Not Wanted on the Voyage. Similar in tone and depth to Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale and Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go, this novel is ideal for fans of speculative and thought-provoking fiction.

4.3

7,152 ratings

73%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Character List

Dr. Noah Noyes

A domineering and self-righteous head of the family, he demands obedience and conducts cruel experiments, reflecting his desire for control and faith in his own infallibility.

A practical and empathetic wife to Dr. Noyes, she strives to protect her family from his wrath and displays resilience and compassion throughout their struggles.

The eldest son and a hardworking farmer, known for his strength and practicality, though he has a simplistic worldview and remains loyal to his father.

The second-born son, notable for his stamina and love of life, he is an astronomer with a commitment to non-violence and becomes romantically involved with Lucy.

The youngest son who struggles with past trauma, he becomes resentful and aggressive, carrying envy and anger regarding his place in the family.

The intelligent and mysterious wife of Shem, she earns divine favor and remains pragmatic, aligning herself with Dr. Noyes for her own safety.

An 11-year-old girl married to Japeth, she is initially seen as immature but grows to demonstrate strength and deep bonds within the family.

The morbidly depressed Creator, he finds sanctuary with Noah and struggles with humanity's rejection, contemplating extreme measures for salvation.

A mischievous and adaptable presence who appears to Ham as Lucy and is recognized as a rogue angel, exploring her identity and motives while interacting with the Noyes family.

A warrior angel loyal to Yaweh, he conceals Lucifer's presence on Earth to spare Yaweh from further pain while taking on a protective role.

Mrs. Noyes's insightful and social calico cat, blind from Dr. Noyes’s experiments, who plays a crucial role in observing the unfolding events around her.

Book Details
Pages

352

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Ark • Biblical Era

Publication Year

1984

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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