Books

Gorran, Grace and Tick live in small West Cornwall village, a setting which is brought vividly to life in this novel for readers who love animals, adventure, and a touch of magic. Gorran’s mum is depressed, Tick has to spend way too much time looking after his little sister, and Grace just wishes she had enough cash to leave home. Their lives are shaken to the core and their friendships cemented following an Atlantic storm system that brings a shocking punctuation point to Gorran’s life.

Bleeding and with broken bones, he is helped to survive by a strange girl. Believing her to be a refugee, he is haunted by his memory of her as he recuperates until the day comes when he is able to repay his debt. But paying it will draw all three friends into a much bigger obligation and put him in even more danger.

MERMAIDS, WITCHES AND PISKIES (Coming Soon)

This collection explores five myths in short dramatic form, for performances that feature small but flexible casts of characters and have a running time of no longer than ten minutes each. They’re highly suitable for KS2 and 3 Drama classes and Arts Days, or even for fun performances at home with puppet or shoe-box theatres. There aren’t too many lines to learn, and the book includes suggestions for warm-up activities, improvisations and even some prop-making suggestions.

–In Lutey and the Mermaid, a faithful husband has his head turned by a mermaid who he rescues. She gives him a wonderful gift in exchange. But gifts often have strings attached. Will Lutey do the right thing when she returns to collect?

-Mother Ivey is a white witch who defends her people in the face of starvation, but even occult threats don’t faze powerful landowners. It seems, though, that Mother Ivey isn’t out of options yet.

-Mathey Trewhella is a good young man. When he sings the psalm on Sundays the whole church at Zennor resounds with his beautiful voice. But it’s also attracted the attention of a mysterious stranger, who listens from the back.

-Joan the Wad bears her torch proudly. She’s the Queen of the Piskies, and her light can sometimes be seen by travellers the moor at night. But does it lead to safety or away from the path?

–The Whoopers’ mournful cries can be heard echoing round the cliffs often on misty nights in Sennen Cove. Most folk turn over in their beds and try to go back to sleep- they know to wait until they have passed to put to sea for their fish. But not everyone heeds the warning.

A free sample download of The Mermaid of Zennor can be found here: https://elspethstevenson.co.uk/resources/3/