The Selkie’s Mate

A young crofter who lives by the sea loves nothing more than navigating his boat through the dancing waters alongside the sleek, graceful seals. When occasionally a pang of loneliness tugs at his heart, he sings to the ocean under the stars. He is enchanted when, one night, a beautiful seal joins him in song. When she sheds her skin and transforms into the loveliest woman he has ever seen, he realises she is a Selkie who has chosen to live with him on land.

She entrusts him with her silvery Selkie skin, asking him to keep it safe and give it back to her when she asks for it, so she may be free to return to the sea when she chooses. They spend seven joyful years together and have two children, but when the Selkie asks for her skin back, will the crofter be able to let her go?

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.