The Silent Selkie: A Storybook to Support Children and Young People Who Have Experienced Trauma

The Silent Selkie is a story about a character who cannot communicate in words but can only communicate through the weather, leading to disastrous consequences. It deals with the effects of trauma on a young person and uses creative metaphors and symbols to offer children a supportive way to communicate. It encourages young people to develop greater understanding of how trauma can affect them and is ideal for those working with vulnerable children and young people.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 29 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Silent Selkie is a captivating tale that delves into the life of a character who finds herself unable to communicate through traditional means, relying solely on the weather to convey her emotions and thoughts. This unique communication method, while initially charming, soon leads to disastrous consequences not only for the Selkie herself but also for those around her.

As the story unfolds, it becomes evident that the Selkie harbors a deep and hidden wound that she is unaware of, a wound that has been festering for years. However, it is only when her skin is exposed to the force of the sea that she begins to remember the tragic story that caused her pain. It is a story of loss, betrayal, and isolation, a tale that has left scars on her soul.

With the help of a wise old seer, the Selkie begins to confront her past and heal the wounds that have been holding her back. Through introspection, self-reflection, and the expressive arts, she slowly begins to unravel the secrets of her past and come to terms with the pain that has shaped her.

The Silent Selkie is a beautifully illustrated and sensitively written story that deals with the effects of trauma on a young person, including hypersensitivity and emotional reactivity. It uses the metaphor of trauma as a "hidden wound," an emotional or psychological pain that needs both acknowledgement and expression within a safe, supportive environment to begin to heal.

The story offers a powerful message of resilience and healing, reminding us that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to overcome our deepest fears and find solace in the healing power of self-love and acceptance. It encourages adults to provide a safe environment for children to use non-verbal expression to communicate experiences that may be difficult to talk about, using creative metaphors and symbols to offer children a supportive way to communicate while maintaining a safe distance from the source of their emotional pain.

Furthermore, The Silent Selkie empowers children to begin their journey of healing by inspiring and empowering them to express themselves creatively. It is an ideal reading for those working with vulnerable children and young people seeking to use the expressive arts to develop greater emotional literacy.

In conclusion, The Silent Selkie is a captivating tale that explores the complexities of trauma, healing, and self-discovery. It offers a powerful message of resilience and hope, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, there is always the possibility of light and growth.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 254 x 203 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367639495