Kids into books: Call of the Selkie

Author: Jean Bennett

Illustrator: Shawn Shea

Publisher: Shortland Publications, $10.95

Age group: 9 - 13 years



"Go away," said Ryan. He stood on the shore, arms folded, his body a barrier between the headland behind him and the girl in front of him.

"Why can't I go with you?" Cilla sounded hurt and puzzled.

"I want to be by myself," said Ryan.

"What's the problem?"

"I just need a little time to think," said Ryan. "On my own."

Cilla tossed her head and her fair lifted in the breeze. "Suit yourself," she said and turned away.

Ryan sighed with relief and began climbing the rocks. He and Cilla had been friends since her family came to the beach town two years ago. Cilla's family had moved into the house just across the road. Ryan had been glad to have someone his own age in the small community of mostly retired people. He hated sending Cilla away, but he couldn't risk her seeing what at the bay. She was hopeless at keeping secrets.

He pulled himself up the jagged rocks. Skinned knuckles and shins had taught him which handholds and rocks to trust with his weight. He made his way over the headland towards the hidden access he had discovered a few months ago.