by Suzy Stembridge

Created on: October 05, 2010   Last Updated: October 22, 2010

“Nation” is a novel written by Terry Pratchett, first published in the UK on September 11, 2008. Unlike his previous “Discworld” series, this fantasy book is set on an uncharted island across the Great Southern Pelagic Ocean presumably in the same world we currently reside.

The story takes place in the 1980’s and a plague has wiped out most of a royal family. A crew is assembled to sail to find the last remaining heir, carrying on its voyage Daphne, a young, intelligent royalty. On an island, millions of miles away, young Mau completes his rites into manhood, and prepares to travel back to his home island to get his ceremonial tattoo, officially making him a man. A giant wave of tsunami-like proportions wipes out everyone in its way, and collides these two unlikely friends on a Mau’s island. Mau struggles with the loss of his people and presumably his soul while Daphne is thrust into a world of silver fishes. Together they experience growing pains, as they encounter survivors, cannibal raiders, old souls, a god of death and dolphins. 

While there are two protagonists, Mau is somewhat darker and is hauntingly beautiful in his struggle of neither escaping boyhood nor embracing manhood. Daphne on the other hand tends to provide charm laced with humorous etiquette. The island seems to have it’s own character, speaking in voices of Grandparents to both Mau and Daphne. While the horror of death and the difficulty of courage are narrated through Mau, Daphne portrays the beauty of friendship and intelligence. Strangers who barely knew each other’s language can somehow bend together and lead a new nation. The plot never stays stagnant, introducing a myriad of antagonists from mutinied Englishmen to sharks, and is interesting enough to keep you glued to the pages. The ending is somewhat lacking in terms of justice and the fate of both leading characters. However, if you enjoy poignant pieces, this will leave you satisfied and nostalgic. 

The plot deals with loss and internal struggles that come with growing pains. Friendship and loyalty does not know age, color or language but triumphs over invasion, conquests and hallucinations. An endearing adventure depicting the coming of age of two very different individuals conquering fear and hallucinations of very cranky gods. 

While the reccurring theme of the book is of calamity, death and depression, it is ultimately a tale of hope and courage, mixed in with plenty of humor. While this may not be suited for children, an open-minded reader will truly enjoy this amazing world of silver fish, god anchors, Grandparents and sharks. In the end everything fits nicely from establishing the royal crown to a single dolphin leaping from the sea. 

Learn more about this author, Suzy Stembridge.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.