A Comb of Wishes
A Comb of Wishes by Lisa Stringfellow is a middle grade debut published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2022. This 272-page book is written in English and explores themes of grief and loss through the lens of Caribbean folklore. The story follows Kela, a girl grappling with her mother’s death, who discovers an ancient comb in a coral cave. This comb becomes a catalyst for a magical bargain with a vengeful mermaid, Ophidia, leading Kela to confront her deepest desires and the consequences of her wishes.
Readers will find a narrative that intertwines elements of legends and myths with poignant social topics such as death and bereavement. As Kela navigates her feelings of brokenness and longing, the tale delves into the complexities of family and the impact of loss. The enchanting backdrop of St. Rita’s beaches and the mystical elements of mermaid lore enrich the story, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of wishes and the prices they may demand.
Official synopsis Publisher
Set against the backdrop of Caribbean folklore, Lisa Stringfellow’s spellbinding middle grade debut tells of a grieving girl and a vengeful mermaid and will enchant readers who loved Kacen Callender’s Hurricane Child or Christian McKay Heidicker’s Scary Stories for Young Foxes.
Ever since her mother’s death, Kela feels every bit as broken as the shards of glass, known as “mermaid’s tears,” that sparkle on the Caribbean beaches of St. Rita. So when Kela and her friend Lissy stumble across an ancient-looking comb in a coral cave, with all she’s already lost, Kela can’t help but bring home her very own found treasure.
Far away, deep in the cold ocean, the mermaid Ophidia can feel that her comb has been taken. And despite her hatred of all humans, her magic requires that she make a bargain: the comb in exchange for a wish.
But what Kela wants most is for her mother to be alive. And a wish that big will exact an even bigger price…
Don’t miss the novel that Newbery-winning author Kelly Barnhill calls “one of the most promising works of fiction in a long time”!
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