They are actually trading away their deepest selves to fulfill their desires for attractiveness or material goods. Matty and Seer eventually realize that the people who trade are changing, physically and emotionally. When Matty shares his experience with Seer, the old man seems concerned. Townspeople loudly announce what they are trading for, but they whisper to the Trademaster whatever it is they’re trading away. He’s surprised to see that no one has brought anything to trade. Seer is a bit skeptical about trading and tells Matty he’s too young, but the boy decides to attend a Trade Mart to see what the fuss is about. When Matty’s friend Ramo and his family make a trade to get a Gaming Machine, Matty becomes more curious about trading and the Trade Mart that takes place in town occasionally. Jean gives him the puppy, which he names Frolic. He also heals his friend Jean’s two sick dogs, a mother and puppy, in the same way. When he picks it up, power surges through his hand, and the frog is restored. He discovers this when he accidentally steps on a frog in the forest, nearly tearing off its leg. Matty secretly begins to suspect he has the power to fix broken things. But Forest seems to know Matty has a job to do and allows him safe passage. Most people are unable to leave Village through the forest, as Forest often entangles and kills them. He expects that name will be Messenger, since he has already been charged with the task of taking correspondence through the forest to other villages. He now looks forward to learning his true name the way other adults have, a name that will confirm his unique mystical gift. Under the guidance of his teacher, Mentor, and his caretaker, an old blind man called Seer, Matty changes his ways and embraces Village’s traditions of kindness and openness to all. No age is given, but he came as a young thief and liar, the product of an abusive home.

Messenger lowry