Noel McDermott

Inuit folk-hero Kiviuq has a frightening encounter with the tuutaliit, or mermaids, in this retelling of a traditional story. Lured out onto the sea by a seal who turns out to be the grandson of the local angakkuq, or shaman, Kiviuq survives a terrible storm, only to find himself far from home and confronted with malicious sea creatures intent on destroying his qajaq (kayak) and sending him to a watery grave. Persevering despite his weariness, the great hunter twice escapes his adversaries, eventually making it to safety on land.

Published by Inhabit Media, an Inuit-owned press based in Nunavut, Kiviuq and the Mermaids is an exciting story, one taken from a folk tradition with which many young readers will be unfamiliar. I appreciated the frequent use of Inuktitut words, which are explained in the text, and glossed at the rear (together with pronunciation guide). I also found the artwork, done by Toma Feizo Gas, immensely engaging, particularly enjoying the depiction of the creepy mermaids, with their sharp teeth and fingernails. Recommended to anyone looking for retellings of Inuit folklore, or to those who enjoy scary stories.… (mehr)