Nicola Davies, Claire Jenkins
The Selkie's Mate
(Graffeg April 8, 2020)
In a land where people flow between ocean and land, a seal and a fisherman sing together under a flowing moon.
One in a series of tales that explore the deeper, darker side of our connection with the natural world. Be ready to feel a little bit of magic, and perhaps a few shivers down the spine.
‘Lyrical text is enhanced by evocative watercolour illustrations in this heart-wrenching tale of love, loss and trust. Inspired by Selkie legends from around the world, this haunting story is part of the Shadows and Light series, ideal for mature readers who are looking for something a bit different.’ BookTrust’s Watery Reads for 8-12s
‘This is a delicate story, and in the wrong hands may be experienced as a rape and false imprisonment story. However, here is it sensitively told, with the seal woman choosing to spend time with the crofter after they have sung together under the moon. […] The emphasis on the thoughts behind each of their actions could be used in a discussion about relationships, how people have different expectations and how far do we allow our own needs and wants to dominate relationships.
The illustrations are elegant watercolours, complementing the storytelling. The stand out one for me is of two silhouette heads, placed so that they are almost heart shaped, yet looking in different directions. Pulled together by love, but their outlooks are very different.’ Janet Dowling, School Library Association (65:3, Nov 2017)
One in a series of tales that explore the deeper, darker side of our connection with the natural world. Be ready to feel a little bit of magic, and perhaps a few shivers down the spine.
‘Lyrical text is enhanced by evocative watercolour illustrations in this heart-wrenching tale of love, loss and trust. Inspired by Selkie legends from around the world, this haunting story is part of the Shadows and Light series, ideal for mature readers who are looking for something a bit different.’ BookTrust’s Watery Reads for 8-12s
‘This is a delicate story, and in the wrong hands may be experienced as a rape and false imprisonment story. However, here is it sensitively told, with the seal woman choosing to spend time with the crofter after they have sung together under the moon. […] The emphasis on the thoughts behind each of their actions could be used in a discussion about relationships, how people have different expectations and how far do we allow our own needs and wants to dominate relationships.
The illustrations are elegant watercolours, complementing the storytelling. The stand out one for me is of two silhouette heads, placed so that they are almost heart shaped, yet looking in different directions. Pulled together by love, but their outlooks are very different.’ Janet Dowling, School Library Association (65:3, Nov 2017)