The Seamaiden's Odyssey

LoveReading4Kids Says

September 2024 Book of the Month

Radiating sisterhood and oceanic folklore through a sublimely-told tale, in The Seamaiden's Odyssey Berlie Doherty has crafted a timelessly enthralling story that speaks to present-day readers as they embark on a lyrical voyage of love, loss, family and friendship, underpinned by a pertinent question: “Do we have the right to intervene with nature in order to preserve it?”

This question sits centre stage from the off, when Sasha is enchanted by the sight of an otherworldly sea-creature that’s brought to the marine sanctuary she works at. While the powers that be hail the creature “a huge source of revenue”, Sasha names her Marissa, affirming, “All I want to do is to help you”.  

While Marissa is exhibited to the public, Sasha tends to her, longing to know more about her history and family. And so, after making a pact with Sasha, Marissa shares the story of Merryn. A stormy story of a stolen sister, and the Sea Lord and Sea Queen. Of loss and survival through a journey from sea to land, and back.  

Spellbindingly enhanced by Tamsin Rosewell’s richly evocative silhouette illustrations, The Seamaiden's Odyssey is a beautiful book to treasure, and an elemental story that stirs the soul.

Reviewed by Joanne Owen
Joanne Owen is a writer, reviewer and workshop presenter whose lifelong love of books began when she was growing up in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
More reviews by Joanne Owen

About The Seamaiden's Odyssey

A strange and beautiful sea-creature is brought into the marine sanctuary where Sasha works. The sea-girl is kept as an exhibit and for scientific research. But Sasha wants to know more about her - are there more of her kind? What sort of community does she come from? Does she have a family?

Read the full description

Find This Book In