47 pages • 1 hour read
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352
Novel • Fiction
Ark • Biblical Era
1984
Adult
18+ years
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
7,152 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
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.
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.
7,152 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mrs. Noyes
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.
Shem
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.
Ham
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.
Japeth
The youngest son who struggles with past trauma, he becomes resentful and aggressive, carrying envy and anger regarding his place in the family.
Hannah
The intelligent and mysterious wife of Shem, she earns divine favor and remains pragmatic, aligning herself with Dr. Noyes for her own safety.
Emma
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.
Yaweh
The morbidly depressed Creator, he finds sanctuary with Noah and struggles with humanity's rejection, contemplating extreme measures for salvation.
Lucy/Lucifer
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.
Michael Archangelis
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.
Mottyl
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.
352
Novel • Fiction
Ark • Biblical Era
1984
Adult
18+ years
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