Annie Lumsden, the Girl from the Sea by Beatrice Alemagna, David Almond
Published by Candlewick Press on May 18, 2021
ISBN: 1536216747
Pages: 64
Genres: Fantasy, Mystery
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Perhaps a fantasy a folklore or even a mystery this lyrical story of love is enchanting.  Almond has given readers yet another wonderful story, one that evolves around the ocean and mysteries of life.  A young girl who loves to float in the ocean and has hair like seaweed lives in an oceanside cottage with her artistic mother.   The storyline grows from their quiet lifestyle to mysterious questions that remain unanswered.  The love between mother and child is a strong bond.

Although the story is charming it is the natural tones of the artwork that make this book something very special.  Alemagna has captured the sunlight and shadows on land as well as the dark shades of the ocean environment.  While readers have to let go of their expectations the illustrations add much to the fantasy storyline.   Faces on the human characters are somewhat distorted yet the painted faces in the garden are more defined.

Librarians will want this title in their collections, in public and primary school libraries.   Gift this to grade 2-4 girls who love tales of mermaids and folktales.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME