Eliot Stein’s Custodians of Wonder takes readers on an unforgettable voyage across continents to meet the last keepers of some of humanity’s most endangered cultural practices. These custodians safeguard the echoes of history—be it the delicate needle-made lace of Burano or the ancient, grass-woven bridges of the Inca Empire. Stein artfully juxtaposes the beauty of these traditions with the somber reality of their decline, resulting in a work that is equal parts celebration and elegy.
This non-fiction marvel has garnered widespread acclaim. While the book is a treasure trove of meticulously chronicled tales, it also warrants critical reflection on areas where Stein’s narrative choices could have been more dynamic.
Thematic Brilliance: Preserving Humanity’s Soul
At its heart, Custodians of Wonder is a love letter to cultural diversity. Stein portrays these vanishing traditions not merely as artifacts of human creativity but as reflections of the soul of humanity itself. His exploration of these crafts illuminates profound themes:
- Cultural Fragility: Each chapter underscores how globalization and modernity erode unique identities, leaving behind a homogenized world.
- Human Resilience: The custodians Stein profiles demonstrate extraordinary determination in the face of irrelevance, exemplifying humanity’s innate drive to preserve beauty.
- Interconnectedness: The book beautifully ties the concept of cultural preservation to environmental sustainability, reminding readers that our traditions are inseparable from the landscapes that birthed them.
The Stories: An Intimate Portrait of Humanity
Stein’s greatest achievement lies in his storytelling. Each chapter profiles a remarkable individual, weaving personal anecdotes with historical insights. Here are some highlights:
1. The Last Inca Bridge Master
This chapter is an ode to the Q’eswachaka bridge in Peru, where Victoriano Arizapana continues the 500-year-old tradition of weaving bridges from grass. Stein’s vivid descriptions transport readers to the dizzying heights of the Andes, making this segment a standout. However, at times, the narrative feels overly stretched, with tangential historical details overshadowing the emotional core of Victoriano’s story.
2. The Living Libraries of West Africa
Stein’s profile of Balla Kouyaté, a griot preserving oral histories, is one of the book’s most compelling chapters. It highlights how oral traditions transcend generations. Yet, Stein could have delved deeper into the socio-political implications of preserving oral history in a digital age.
3. Italy’s Rarest Pasta
Stein introduces readers to a lone woman making su filindeu in Sardinia—a dish so rare it’s become a culinary myth. The chapter blends humor, nostalgia, and culinary wonder, though it occasionally leans into romanticized stereotypes of rural Italy.
Writing Style: A Dance Between Poetry and Journalism
Stein’s prose is immersive, often poetic. His ability to balance journalistic precision with lyrical storytelling is commendable. For instance, his description of shadowing Scandinavia’s last night watchman reads like a Nordic noir novel. However, this strength is also a double-edged sword. At times, the florid language risks overshadowing the content, creating a narrative that occasionally feels self-indulgent.
Critiques: A Celebration with Caveats
While Custodians of Wonder is a masterful work, a few aspects invite critique:
- Lack of Depth in Analysis: Stein presents fascinating anecdotes but rarely interrogates the broader implications of cultural extinction. A deeper exploration of globalization’s double-edged sword would have elevated the book.
- Underexplored Voices: While the custodians themselves shine, Stein’s narrative often centers his perspective. Amplifying the voices of his subjects could have provided a richer, more authentic tapestry.
- Structural Repetition: The book’s chapter-by-chapter formula, while engaging, begins to feel predictable halfway through. A deviation in narrative structure could have added variety.
Comparisons and Recommendations
Readers who enjoyed Custodians of Wonder may find similar delight in the following works:
- David Grann’s The Lost City of Z: For fans of exploratory tales blending history and adventure.
- Peter Hessler’s River Town: A deeply personal account of cultural change in rural China.
- Simon Winchester’s The Professor and the Madman: An intricate exploration of intellectual labor and cultural preservation.
Final Verdict: A Wonder Worth Preserving
Eliot Stein’s Custodians of Wonder is a poignant reminder of humanity’s creative genius and the fragility of cultural identity. While it stumbles in fully grappling with its themes’ complexities, its storytelling prowess ensures that readers are both enlightened and emotionally moved.
A must-read for anyone who treasures history, culture, and the extraordinary resilience of human spirit.
