A Julia Eccleshare Pick of the Month February 2021
A mysterious and deeply touching story woven through with serious themes, The Shark Caller is packed-full of adventure, old magic and, above all, friendship. Vividly set in Papua New Guinea with its landscape of sea, sun and beach it gives a glimpse into a way of life dominated by the natural environment. Blue Wing lives in a hut on a sandy beach. She has little formal learning but she knows the ways of the sea and, because she lives with the local shark caller, the ways of the sharks which swim off shore in particular. When a plane arrives with visitors, an American academic purporting to investigating coral in the region and his daughter Maple, Blue Wing’s life is turned upside down. Initially full of hostility towards each other, the two girls quickly discover that they are as alike inside as their lives are different outside. Forging a strong friendship they unravel the mystery of what Maple’s father is really looking for and, in doing so, help Blue Wing uncover her own mystery. A gripping and inspiring read.
'The most incredible story...tender and wise, with themes of friendship, love, grief, revenge and acceptance.' Michelle Harrison, author of A Pinch of Magic
'A master storyteller with an adventure that will catapult children into winderness and wonder.' - Abi Elphinstone, author of The Dreamsnatcher
'Magnificent and beautiful' - Sophie Anderson, author of The Theif Who Sang Storms
'A rare treasure of an adventure.' Sarah Lean
Author
About Zillah Bethell
Zillah Bethell was born in the shadow of the volcano Mount Lamington in Papua New Guinea. She grew up without shoes, toys or technology. Consequently she spent a lot of time in the sea swimming and in canoes. Zillah's family returned to the UK when she was ten, and she now lives in South Wales. Zillah is a storyteller and has written numerous stories for all ages.
