The Silkie

The Silkie by Gill Edmonds, published by Century Hutchinson in 1986, is a work of modern fiction that explores themes rooted in Celtic legend. Set in the Hebrides, the narrative follows a silkie, a mythical being that is half man and half sea creature, who emerges from the ocean to mate with a woman living in isolation on the Western Isles of Scotland. The story unfolds as Mary McBride gives birth to twins, one of whom is reclaimed by the silkie, while the other remains on land, leading to a complex exploration of identity and belonging.

Readers will find a rich tapestry of folklore interwoven with the struggles of Mary’s two sons, one human and one a furred sea creature. Each boy faces challenges in their respective worlds, grappling with acceptance and the search for their true selves. The narrative delves into the consequences of their dual heritage, particularly when the young silkie is discovered by a marine biologist off Cape Cod, setting off a chain of events that impacts both their lives. This edition spans 217 pages and is presented in English, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of human and mythical experiences.