Review: Secret of the Selkies

Secret of the Selkies is a wonderfully magical, heart-warming story that swept me into an exciting, action-packed adventure to discover the truth behind an incredible family secret.

Eleven-year-old Lana is spending her summer holidays with her Nan and Grandad at their coastal home, Carrig Cottage. She is expecting her summer to be lonely and full of worries about the move to secondary school. But, at least, she doesn’t have to spend it with her perfect older brother, who is on a STEM camp, and who, together with her mischievous younger sister, seem to take all her parents’ attention.

When Lana agrees to sort boxes of old books for the local charity shop, she finds herself in the attic where she is soon drawn to a book’s entry on selkies – mythological, magical seal-folk. Exploring the attic further, she locates an old trunk containing a strange coat with an intriguing luggage tag attached …

And so begins a magical, mesmerising adventure as Lana uncovers a family secret that changes her life forever – and opens her eyes and heart to a new and breath-taking world – a place where she finds a new sense of belonging and acceptance.

I absolutely loved this spellbinding, exciting adventure, steeped in Irish folklore, with a fresh, contemporary feel. I adored the vivid descriptions of the hidden world that Lana discovers, and the transformations that take place, as she learns more about her heritage. But could these new discoveries put Lana in danger from an unexpected threat? Be prepared for terrific twists and turns, unexpected revelations, and perilous quests to worlds filled with wonder and trickery – and some brilliant magical creatures.

Lana is a wonderfully likeable young girl who is naturally curious and adventurous, but also someone who doesn’t quite feels she belongs. I really liked the friendships that Lana develops with others, friendships that bring support, aid and joy. Whilst Lana initially feels invisible within her family, I enjoyed how this changes as she learns more about her heritage and gains a sense of belonging and connection. I also really enjoyed the heartfelt relationship between Lana and her Nan and Grandad, something that I think many young readers will connect with.

Slip into this wonderfully captivating story and be transported into a world of magic, folklore and adventure, perfect for readers of 9+.

Thank you to The O’Brien Press for sending me an early copy of this book. It was my decision to read and review, and my review is my honest opinion of this book.