A musical homage to Newfoundland.

What a lyrical and musical story. Set in Newfoundland, it’s a homage to the people, traditions and music there and told in the most beautiful ways. Finn is only eleven but he gives himself the task of trying to get the fish back to the waters so the islanders won’t starve. The island will die without them, their parents are away working and the children have to do what they can.

It’s a slow, gentle read but there’s so much beauty and simplicity in being in the moment that I didn’t mind. Newfoundland is the essence of this novel which may be set in a fictional village but has the traits of a proud community and people.

It’s character focused but the mix of that, the setting and the music made it a very unique read. I could almost see the glow in the sky a bit like the northern lights as I read, it’s that kind of ethereal prose.

Many songs in the book are real folk songs from Newfoundland. The author explains that “She’s like the Swallow” is perhaps one of Newfoundland’s best -known and most celebrated songs. It’s special for many reasons but in particular because it’s written in a modal key which means it’s not major or minor, lending a melancholic feel ancient feel. The other songs in the book also reflect the traditions and history of the town.

A musical treat!