Fifteen-year-old Morgan Kwon lives on an island where she hides her true identity to fit in with her friend group. Her life changes after she falls into the ocean and is rescued by Keltie, a mysterious girl who turns out to be a selkie. As the two begin a secret romantic relationship, Morgan struggles to balance her private emotions with her public reputation. The narrative follows their bond while addressing local environmental threats to the seal colony that Keltie calls family.
Middle-grade and young adult readers looking for queer romance and folklore will find a story about coming out and honesty. The book serves those navigating the pressure of social conformity and the difficulty of keeping secrets from family. Readers walk away with a perspective on how personal integrity affects interpersonal relationships and an understanding of the environmental impact human activity has on marine habitats. Overcoming the fear of social rejection is the central emotional takeaway.
- Published
- 2021
- Language
- EN
