Book details
Ushig
Description
'Ellen whistled again and repeated the old rhyme Aunt Marian had taught her. "I call you once. I call you twice. I call you three times over." Surely in a place as beautiful as this, anything that answered her call was bound to be friendly.'
While exploring a small loch above the village of Aldhammer with her brother Davie, Ellen repeats a childish rhyme to call something to her. What arrives is an ancient being with the ability to shapeshift and the power to destroy. Ushig is a kelpie, a water wraith, and his intentions are anything but pure.
Dragged into a dark, parallel world, inhabited by the creatures of Scottish legend, Ellen must pitch her wits against primeval magic. Can she outsmart the predatory Queen of the Night? And what does Ushig stand to gain?
Another unique and gripping tale from Annemarie Allan, presenting an innovative spin on characters from Scottish folklore in a very modern manner. If you thought you knew the story of the kelpie -- think again!
Age
9-12
Text complexity
beginner
Length
198 pages
Why to read
- Engaging Storyline: 'Ushig' by Annemarie Allan offers readers a captivating and imaginative storyline that blends Scottish folklore with contemporary themes, making it an engaging read for both young adults and those who appreciate mythological tales.
- Cultural Enrichment: The book provides insight into Scottish culture and folklore, particularly the legend of the Ushig, a water spirit. This cultural aspect can enrich the reader's understanding of Scottish traditions and mythological creatures.
- Character Development: Readers should delve into 'Ushig' to experience the well-crafted character development. The protagonist's journey is filled with challenges and growth, which can be both inspiring and relatable to readers of all ages.
- Themes of Conservation: Annemarie Allan weaves important themes of environmental conservation and respect for nature throughout the narrative. Reading 'Ushig' can raise awareness about these issues and encourage readers to think about their own impact on the natural world.