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A review by spenkevich
The Girl from the Sea by Molly Knox Ostertag
5.0
This book is so unbelievably delightful and I’ll be rereading it a dozen times just to feel all the feelings. A queer, coming-of-age romance featuring a selkie and a plot surrounding friendship dynamics and environmental activism? What is not to love!? The Girl from the Sea is the latest from Molly Knox Ostertag, author and illustrator of [b:The Witch Boy|31193426|The Witch Boy (The Witch Boy, #1)|Molly Knox Ostertag|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1488508665l/31193426._SY75_.jpg|51838873] series, and this single volume graphic novel is another stunning beauty of art and storytelling.
When Morgan kisses a mysterious girl who saves her from drowning, the girl reveals herself to be a selkie granted power to walk on land from their kiss. But this awkward girl is embarrassing to have around her “cool” friends, mostly because Morgan is fearful of coming out. Ostertag manages to keep the story feeling fresh as she examines the volatile emotions of balancing friendships with romances and not letting the opinions of others get in the way of what the heart wants.
One aspect that works particularly well is the way group texts figure prominently in the novel, showing the friend-group dynamic and Morgan’s notable absence. Juxtaposing the digital conversations with Morgan’s dates with Keltie the selkie is effective and anyone who has ever felt guilty for ignoring texts while trying to enjoy time away will certainly vibe with these scenes.
After reading a couple series, it was refreshing to visit a single volume story. The plot is paced quite well and while it is a bit of a low stakes narrative compared to her other works it still provides just as much of an emotional impact. Plus the whole “the rich family is ruining the local environment” is kind of a great staple of young adult narratives that urges readers to look at human impact on the wider world. I wish books like this existed when I was young and I will endlessly support and read them now so my inner confused child can enjoy this quality LGBT content they needed.
The adorable and tumultuous love story really sings and the harmonizations of everyday life with friends and family all orchestrate together for a simply stunning book. Dealing with divorce, public opinion and trying to plan for her life all adds nuance and gripping textures to the overall story and are sure to connect with a wide audience. The family dynamics are sure to pull the heartstrings and it’s always lovely to see a coming out scene where the parent is supportive (Take note, parents, being supportive is literally life saving). I loved The Girl from the Sea with it’s beautiful art and story, and I hope you will too.
4.5/5
When Morgan kisses a mysterious girl who saves her from drowning, the girl reveals herself to be a selkie granted power to walk on land from their kiss. But this awkward girl is embarrassing to have around her “cool” friends, mostly because Morgan is fearful of coming out. Ostertag manages to keep the story feeling fresh as she examines the volatile emotions of balancing friendships with romances and not letting the opinions of others get in the way of what the heart wants.
One aspect that works particularly well is the way group texts figure prominently in the novel, showing the friend-group dynamic and Morgan’s notable absence. Juxtaposing the digital conversations with Morgan’s dates with Keltie the selkie is effective and anyone who has ever felt guilty for ignoring texts while trying to enjoy time away will certainly vibe with these scenes.
After reading a couple series, it was refreshing to visit a single volume story. The plot is paced quite well and while it is a bit of a low stakes narrative compared to her other works it still provides just as much of an emotional impact. Plus the whole “the rich family is ruining the local environment” is kind of a great staple of young adult narratives that urges readers to look at human impact on the wider world. I wish books like this existed when I was young and I will endlessly support and read them now so my inner confused child can enjoy this quality LGBT content they needed.
The adorable and tumultuous love story really sings and the harmonizations of everyday life with friends and family all orchestrate together for a simply stunning book. Dealing with divorce, public opinion and trying to plan for her life all adds nuance and gripping textures to the overall story and are sure to connect with a wide audience. The family dynamics are sure to pull the heartstrings and it’s always lovely to see a coming out scene where the parent is supportive (Take note, parents, being supportive is literally life saving). I loved The Girl from the Sea with it’s beautiful art and story, and I hope you will too.
4.5/5