Master storyteller David Almond presents a beautiful collection of short fiction, interwoven with pieces that illuminate the inspiration behind the stories.

May Malone is said to have a monster in her house, but what Norman finds there may just be the angel he needs. Joe Quinn's house is noisy with poltergeists, or could it be Davie's raging causing the disturbance? Fragile Annie learns the truth about herself in a photograph taken by a traveling man near the sea. Set in the northern English Tyneside country of the author's childhood, these eight short stories by the incomparable David Almond evoke gritty realities and ineffable longings, experiences both ordinary and magical. In autobiographical preludes to each story, the writer shows how all things can be turned into tales, reflecting on a time of wonder, tenderness, and joy.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Candlewick Press (MA)
Published: 09/22/2015
ISBN: 9780763678777
Pages: 240
Weight: 0.75lbs
Size: 7.90h x 4.90w x 1.00d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 06/29/2015
Kirkus Reviews 07/01/2015
School Library Journal 08/01/2015 pg. 96
Booklist 09/15/2015 pg. 64
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 11/01/2015
PW Children's Starred Reviews 12/02/2015 pg. 92

Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 176921 / Half a Creature from the Sea: A Life in Stories
Reading Level: 4.3 / Interest Level: Middle Grade Plus / Point Value: 5