The Forbidden Sea
by Sheila A. Nielson
YA Fantasy
304 pages, hardcover
Target Reader: 12+
Scholastic Press
978-0545097345
Release Date: July 1, 2010
From the publisher:
A mermaid haunts Adrianne's dreams . . . is she coming to warn her, save her, or drag her down into the depths of the briny sea forever?
When Adrianne comes face-to-face with the mermaid of Windwaithe Island, of whom she has heard terrible stories all her life, she is convinced the mermaid means to keep her younger sister. Adrianne, fierce-willed and courageous, is determined to protect her sister from the mermaid, and her family from starvation. However, the mermaid continues to haunt Adrianne in her dreams and with her song.
Isn't that the most amazing cover?! I think it's absolutely breathtaking.
The story inside is wonderful too. When her father dies, Adrianne's mother suffers from what we'd call severe depression. They lose their income, their status and their home. Adrienne is forced to work on the farm and care for her younger sister, while her mother does mending and her Auntie Minna daily blames her for their situation. Adrienne also must contend with her own version of "Nellie Oleson" in the form of Cora Lynn, and other town bullies. Denn, her lifetime friend and now the boy she secretly loves, has a crush on Cora Lynn. On top of all that, there's a mermaid trying to lure her into the sea.
This is a great mermaid story with a twist. The writing is clear and descriptive. You feel like you're there experiencing life right along with Adrianne. Your heart breaks for her, but you can't help but be inspired by her strength and courage.
Although this is listed as a YA book and the main character is a teen with a love interest, I recommend this book to girls, ages 12 and up, and to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy or a good mermaid story.
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Violence: A mermaid scratches Adrianne, but it's not really a violent act.
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© 2010 It's a Book Affair
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