The Magic Missing Magic System – An Explanation

The first review for A Boy Without Magic was a four star review primarily on the magic system in Sam’s world. The explanation is rather simple. Think in terms of everyone having a 3D printer inside them. The pollen is the material they use to make things. Turning pollen into something is an acquired skill and the result is like something made out of plastic. They use their innate ability to collect the pollen, which is ever-present, and their will to join it into a useful object.

The pollen-made objects deteriorate over time. Most other materials last longer and are more durable. Pollen can burn, but it also can withstand a certain amount of heat. People can make pollen weapons, but plastic blades against steel? No contest. Pollen roofs don’t last as long as thatch roofs. Pollen armor is better than no armor, but it gets hacked apart easily enough.

People acquire different skills in making items out of pollen, so there is a lot of variation in pollen-made objects. Where there are good pollen makers, there are poorer pollen makers, but everyone can make stuff…except for Sam, the protagonist.

During the course of the series, Sam will be exposed to seeing pollen made and used in different ways. He even will add to the innovation as the stories progress. Since we are basically looking through Sam’s eyes, the world of pollen-made things will expand as Sam gets more experience.

If you have any thought or comments about the pollen in Sam’s world, put them in the comments.