Child of St Kilda

St Kilda, an island group far to the west of Scotland, is so remote and experiences such volatile weather that supplies can only be delivered for half the year. Until 1930, the islands were inhabited by a community that fished, caught birds, and raised sheep. Debut creator Waters tells the story of Norman John Gillies, one of the last children born there. In short sections (“What People Did,” “School,” “St Kilda Mail,” and more), Waters narrates the joys and sorrows of living where all were known to each other, there were no cars and no money, and failed crops and harsh winters could mean the worst. Gillies was named for two uncles who died at sea, and when he was nearly five, his mother fell ill and was taken to the mainland, where she died. It was this tragedy that led the 36 remaining St Kildans to petition the government to move them to the mainland. Waters illustrates her island biography with monoprints—painting on glass and printing the image on paper—a technique that yields a weathered look that’s just right for images of the sea, sky, and great cliffs. This fascinating look at a lost world closes with excerpts from Waters’s sketchbook as well as a few contemporary photos of the islands. Ages 4–9. [em](Sept.) [/em]