The Mermaid in the Millpond
(Author) Lucy StrangeHistory and myth entwine in this atmospheric tale of freedom and friendship from bestselling author Lucy Strange and acclaimed illustrator Pam Smy. History and myth entwine in this atmospheric tale of freedom and friendship from bestselling author Lucy Strange and acclaimed illustrator Pam Smy. Bess has left the London workhouse behind for a job at a rural cotton mill. But life at the mill is hard and cruel - a far cry from the fresh start Bess hoped for. The only way to survive is to escape, but the mill is like a prison with no way out. Meanwhile, rumours are spreading about a vicious creature that lurks in the millpond. Bess is sure it's all nonsense, until one night she sees something stir in the murky water. But is it really a monster that lives in the depths of the pond? Or a creature trapped and alone, just like Bess, desperate to escape ... Particularly suitable for readers aged 9+ with a reading age of 8.
Lucy Strange
Lucy Strange is a British author known for her compelling and atmospheric middle-grade novels that blend historical fiction with elements of mystery and adventure. Her most notable works include "The Secret of Nightingale Wood" and "Our Castle by the Sea." Strange's writing style is characterized by richly drawn characters, intricate plots, and evocative settings that transport readers to another time and place. She has made a significant impact on the middle-grade genre by crafting stories that resonate with readers of all ages and explore themes of family, friendship, and resilience. "The Secret of Nightingale Wood" is considered her most famous work, receiving critical acclaim and numerous awards for its poignant storytelling and emotional depth. Lucy Strange continues to enchant readers with her captivating tales that celebrate the power of imagination and the triumph of the human spirit.