"In this historical fantasy novel, the author brings us the magical story of a young girl in search of her mother... who just might be a mermaid. Malin has always been different, and when her father dies, leaving her alone, her choice is clear: stay, and remain an outsider forever, or leave in search of the mythical inheritance she is certain awaits her. Apprenticed to a series of strange and wonderful characters, Malin embarks on a grueling journey that crosses oceans and continents-- from the high seas to desert plains-- and leads to a discovery that she could never have expected. Beautifully written and hauntingly strange, this book is a remarkable piece of storytelling, and an utterly unique work of fantasy."--Page [4] of cover.

"Originally published in Great Britain by William Heinemann, an imprint of The Random House Group Limited, London, in 2004."--Title page verso.