The Selkie’s Daughter
By Linda Crotta Brennan
Children's Fiction
If you’re wanting a mythical, magical escape, give The Selkie’s Daughter by Linda Crotta Brennan a read. While it is written for 10-14 year olds, adults will enjoy the rich tapestry of Scottish-Irish mythology with a captivating coming-of-age story. Set along the rugged shores where land meets sea, the novel introduces readers to the enchanting world of selkies—mythical beings that live as seals in the water and shed their skins to walk on land as humans.
The story centers on Maura, a young girl caught between two worlds. She has always felt a deep connection to the ocean, and as she learns more about her family's mysterious past, she discovers that she is part selkie—a legacy that both empowers and complicates her life. Brennan’s storytelling is deeply rooted in the traditions of Celtic folklore, where legends of selkies speak to themes of identity, freedom, and belonging.
In particular, I was drawn in by the lush descriptions of the coastal landscape and the author's skillful blending of myth with the challenges of growing up. The novel explores the tension between Maura's desire for independence and the pull of the sea—a metaphor for the balance between embracing heritage and forging one’s own path. It’s a tale that feels timeless yet fresh, making the ancient myth of the selkie come alive for a new generation of readers.
For those fascinated by folklore and longing for a story that embraces the mysteries of the sea, The Selkie’s Daughter is a treasure. Its deep ties to Scottish-Irish mythology make it a perfect read for anyone who loves the magical and the mystical.
Claire Skerry
PLOS Bookmobile
