Half a Creature from the Sea

This coming of age collections of stories inspired by Almond’s childhood in the north east, which of course is so prevalent through his work. * The Bookseller *
The work of a writer of great power, and a living insight for teenage readers into the power of imagination and the way that stories grow from seed to fruit * The School Librarian *
The autobiographical notes are stories in themselves, encouraging young writers in their reminder that we all have the material for fiction a short memory away. . . As well as the living roots of the stories, the prefaces reveal where, how or why Almond wrote them, and that some have seen many drafts and may never be finished: more encouragement. * Observer *
If anything will encourage teenagers to start writing, it is this superb masterclass in how setting, dialogue and character can convey powerful emotions in a few words. * Daily Mail *
A powerful collection of stories, interleaved by Almond’s memories of the places he grew up in. It’s a meditation on the power of stories . . . extraordinary dreamy atmosphere and lyrical evocation of life by the sea. * Children’s Books Ireland Recommended Read *
An absolute treat . . . he writes sparingly and beautifully. . . fiction to treasure * Books for Keeps *