The Seems

The Seems are a fictional race of beings featured in a series of children's books by John Hulme and illustrator Chris Van Allsburg, beginning with "The Secrets of the The Seems: The Split Second." The Seems are responsible for maintaining the smooth operation of the world by managing various "Departments" that oversee fundamental aspects of reality.

Overview

The Seems inhabit a parallel dimension or unseen reality adjacent to the human world. Their purpose is to prevent disruptions and ensure the regular functioning of time, weather, sleep, and other essential systems. They are governed by a complex bureaucratic structure and a strict set of rules and procedures. The term "Seems" refers both to the individuals themselves and to the overall organization.

Departments

Each Department of the Seems is responsible for a specific area of maintenance. Examples include:

• The Department of Time: Manages the flow of time, preventing paradoxes and temporal anomalies.
• The Department of Weather: Controls weather patterns and ensures a balance of precipitation, temperature, and other atmospheric conditions.
• The Department of Sleep: Oversees the sleep cycles of humans and animals, ensuring proper rest and preventing insomnia.
• The Department of Lost Luggage: An often mentioned and humorously portrayed department that attempts to reunite misplaced items with their owners.

Characteristics

Seems are generally depicted as humanoids, often with unusual physical characteristics or attire that reflect their Department. They are typically dedicated to their work and adhere strictly to regulations. While generally benevolent, their bureaucratic nature can sometimes lead to inefficiencies or unforeseen consequences. Their world operates on its own set of rules and logic, often contrasting with the human world they support. The Seams, as an organization, relies heavily on internal communication and specialized tools for maintaining the processes of the world.