Living at the Edge of the World - Summer - The Papala Island Series 3
Formats: E-Book, Audio, Paperback
Ages: 8-11
When twelve-year-old Tabitha returns to the remote Shetland island of Papala, she expects adventure with her twin brother and friends – not trouble.
As their ferry approaches Papala, Tabitha discovers what appears to be a selkie skin drifting in the harbour. Local legend says the skin belongs to a mythical creature – half human, half seal – and that if it is not returned before midnight, the island will be cursed with generations of bad luck.
But Papala is already under threat. Pollution creeps along the coast, the bird sanctuary is at risk, and the island’s owner plans to sell. With time running out, Tabitha and her brother must uncover the truth and convince the islanders to protect their home.
Selkies ★ Self-confidence ★ Speaking up
Reviews
A delightful little book capturing the magic and mystery of childhood with practical modern twist! I really loved this little book. It is exactly the kind of thing I wanted to read at the age of 10 or 12 and is lightly/slightly reminiscent of the Island of the Blue Dolphins for me. But with a Susan Cooper group twist. In fact, I'm now going to go back and read O'Dell's single and Cooper's series again, but this book is a lovely, magical mixture of practical learning lying beneath a magical summer experience, which is a more modern take on a summer read. Although I'd love equally to comb through this on a bleak midwinter to remind myself of the magic of summer and the mystery that is still steeped in some of the nether regions of the British Isles. And I really really enjoyed the artwork as well, despite it's sligly wonky nature--it perfectly reflects the slightly wonky nature of childhood and stories and magical summer nights. A delightful little book!
I am still as thrilled with this third volume of the Papala Island Adventure Series: the writing is top-notch, the plot is gripping, and we are getting attached to the characters. This time, the main themes are environmental conscience, and whether it's even worth fighting against a global problem. An uplifting and important read for young people.
A Beautiful Story with an Important Message This is the second book I've read in this series (Living at the Edge of the World*, and I loved it just as much as the first. Aimed at young readers, it beautifully weaves the mythology of the selkies into a story about caring for the environment, respecting and nurturing nature, finding courage, and growing in confidence. It's an engaging adventure with meaningful themes that help youngsters understand the importance of the environment. Highly recommended for young readers who enjoy stories with heart, imagination, and a strong connection to the natural world.
