Saskia Granton is intrigued by an invitation to visit her reclusive great-aunt Alessandra, who lives on the Scottish coast. It’s a chance to rediscover her lifelong love of the sea – and to forget, if only for a few weeks, the boring career her parents have mapped out for her.Swept immediately into the rhythm of life in a fishing community, Saskia slowly begins to realize how little she really knows about her roots. Somehow, she needs to understand the past if she is to find the direction she needs for her future – a future that may or may not include her new friend Ben.Just as the sea gives up its bounty, so too her great-aunt must reveal the secrets of the past – the terrible toll of lives lost, and the very personal tragedy that left Alessandra herself so isolated.Only then can Saskia break free . . .
Discover a captivating tale of self-discovery, family secrets, and the enduring power of the sea with Theresa Breslin's "Saskia's Journey." This compelling adventure story follows Saskia Granton, a young woman yearning for something more than the predictable path laid out for her. When an unexpected invitation arrives from her reclusive great-aunt Alessandra, who resides in a remote Scottish coastal community, Saskia seizes the opportunity for a much-needed escape. Drawn to the rugged beauty of the coastline and the timeless rhythm of life in the fishing village, Saskia finds herself reconnecting with her long-held love of the sea. But as she immerses herself in this unfamiliar world, she begins to realize the vast gaps in her understanding of her own family history. The past, it seems, holds the key to unlocking her future, but uncovering those secrets won't be easy. Breslin masterfully weaves together a narrative rich in atmosphere and emotion. The evocative descriptions of the Scottish landscape transport the reader to the heart of the story, allowing them to feel the salty spray of the sea and hear the cries of the gulls overhead. As Saskia navigates the complexities of her family's past, she also finds herself drawn to Ben, a local who offers a glimpse of a different kind of future. However, the past casts a long shadow, and Great-Aunt Alessandra holds secrets close to her heart secrets born from personal tragedy and the devastating impact of the sea on the lives of those who depend on it. Saskia must unravel these deeply buried truths if she is to understand herself and forge her own path. Will she find the strength to confront the past and embrace the uncertain future that awaits her? Will her burgeoning connection with Ben blossom into something more? "Saskia's Journey" is more than just an adventure story; it's a poignant exploration of identity, family, and the courage it takes to break free from expectations. Theresa Breslin, an award-winning author known for her historical fiction and insightful character development, delivers a story that will resonate with readers of all ages. Readers who enjoy authors like Elizabeth Laird and Geraldine McCaughrean will particularly appreciate Breslin's skill in crafting believable characters and compelling narratives. This book is a perfect choice for anyone seeking a thought-provoking and heartwarming read, exploring themes of belonging, resilience, and the enduring power of human connection. Get ready to be swept away by Saskia's journey of self-discovery on the windswept shores of Scotland.