I hate selkie stories. They're always about how you went up to the attic to look for a book, and you found a disgusting old coat and brought it downstairs between finger and thumb and said "What's this?", and you never saw your mom again.

If you know of selkie mythology, you'll understand this opening quote, and if you don't it's explained within this short story (which can be read for free HERE).

Abandonment, loss and love are the themes. On first impressions, it seemed to be a superficial and easily forgotten tale told in a casual tone of voice. It's not as superficial as it looks. Beneath the surface is a desperate to be loved young girl who's scared that her love for her best friend is unrequited. She worries that she'll be abandoned again and is bitter about the loss of her mother, a mother who didn't appear to love her daughter more than the water.

*2014 Hugo Awards Best Short Story finalist. ( )

Hugo short story finalist. First person narrative by a young woman who has good reason to believe that selkie stories are for losers. It's difficult to say much about it without spoilers. I liked it but thought it took time to get going. ( )

A family break up affects a young girl. Only minor fantasy elements. ( )