The Billow Maiden is a hauntingly beautiful story, set in the wild countryside of a North English coastal village. The main character, Aisla, has briefly moved there to live with her Aunt and Uncle Nod while her mum is sick. When she arrives, she quickly makes friends with the daughter of an infamous family, Camilla. Ailsa also makes a discovery in one of the caves which leads to the pair learning more about the island, its history and themselves.
The book shares the complex backgrounds of the main characters wonderfully well. Ailsa’s struggles with her mum’s ongoing mental health needs contrast with Camilla’s own family challenges. These two girls appear to have lives which are polar opposites but find sanctuary together; with Ailsa’s Aunt and Uncle providing both with much needed stability and comfort. The author also uses Norse legends to add further layers of mystery and intrigue throughout.
There is so much that could be used within the book to inspire learning in the primary classroom; the descriptions of the wild English coastland and caves would be perfect when looking at Geographical features. Camilla’s passion for Norse Gods compliment topics on myths and legends and, of course, there is the ongoing PSHE topic which weaves the characters together. It’s rare that a book tackles parental mental health so honestly; with each character sharing their confusion and compassion in different ways.
It is a thoroughly wonderful book and highly recommended for children in Upper Key Stage Two, due to the mature themes discussed.
Reviewer: Claire C
