The Edinburgh Festival brings together artists from all over the world, and Cowrie is among them, telling stories and giving readings. But even Cowrie can’t anticipate the chemistry that will begin when a group of traditional storytellers sets off to the Orkney Islands with Ellen, to stay at her coastal family cottages. For Ellen turns out to be Morrigan, and Morrigan is a selkie, living in...

Two huge lips went shopping
on a pogo stick
for a red satin handbag
coordinated in colour
with their cupid’s bow

This is a book for anyone who has ever shopped – or worked in shops. But whether you find yourself wincing or laughing could depend on which side of the shop counter you’re on at the time. Find out what it’s like to be a young shopgirl, vent your frustrations with today’s supermarket...