(Ages 10 and older) -Karin Snelsonĭavid Almond is a British children's writer who has penned several novels, each one to critical acclaim. Skellig was the Whitbread Award's 1998 Children's Book of the Year, and this haunting novel is sure to resonate with readers young and old.

It's at home where his life becomes extraordinary, with the help of Skellig and Mina, the quirky, strong-willed girl next door with 'the kind of eyes you think can see right through you.' Mina and her mother's motto is William Blake's 'How can a bird that is born for joy / Sit in a cage and sing?' This question carries us through the book, as we see Michael's baby sister trapped in a hospital incubator as we see the exquisite, winged Skellig crumpled in the garage as we meet Mina's precious blackbird chicks and the tawny owls in her secret attic and as we finally see a braver, bolder Michael spread his wings and fly. He goes to school, plays soccer, and has friends with nicknames like Leakey and Coot. British novelist David Almond works magic as he examines the large issues of death, life, friendship, love, and the breathtaking connections between all things.Īmidst the intensity and anxiety of his world, Michael is a normal kid.

What unfolds is a powerful, cosmic, dreamlike tale reminiscent of Madeleine L'Engle's A Wrinkle in Time. Still, he can't get this mysterious creature out of his mind-even as he wonders if he has really seen him at all. The new house is a mess, his parents are distracted, and his brand-new baby sister is seriously ill. As disturbing as this discovery is, it is the least of Michael's worries. This is Michael's introduction to Skellig, the man-owl-angel who lies motionless behind the tea chests in the abandoned garage in back of the boy's dilapidated new house. I shined the flashlight on his white face and his black suit.' Dead bluebottles were scattered on his hair and shoulders. He was covered with dust and webs like everything else and his face was thin and pale. He was sitting with his legs stretched out and his head tipped back against the wall.

Skellig audio book