The Unadoptables

May 25, 2020
In 1880, five babies were abandoned at Amsterdam’s Little Tulip Orphanage without adhering to the institution’s orderly rules. Named by the cruel Matron Gassbeek, their monikers are as unique as they are: 12-fingered Lotta, a master of mathematics; gentle Egg, a budding cartographer; timid Fenna, a mute culinary expert; and protective Sem, a sewing whiz. The fifth, Milou, whose ear-prickling sense warns her of impending danger, has written a book of theories about why her parents abandoned her in a small coffin. Twelve years later, these inseparable children, all considered unadoptable, are suddenly courted by a merchant who wants them to join him aboard his ship. Instead, the five escape to an abandoned windmill once owned by Milou’s family; however, even their lifelike puppet guardian and Milou’s sixth sense may not protect them from the dangers of the outside world. Despite employing a well-trod conceit—orphans frantic to escape a miserable life creating a found family—this story stands out for its enchanted setting, daring escapades, and an arch, vividly wrought third-person narrative by debut author Tooke. Ages 8–12.