The gift boat - Peter Dickinson

Grandad is the most important person in Gavin's life. The two understand each other perfectly. Grandad teaches Gavin to fish in Stonehaven harbour, and is making him a beautiful model boat for his birthday. Gavin names her Selkie, after the mythical seal-people, who will help you if you're in trouble. When Grandad is suddenly struck down by a massive stroke, Gavin is devastated. But he is determined to prove the doctors wrong, and find a way to reach his real Grandad, trapped somewhere inside the paralysed body in the hospital bed. He is sure that, somehow, the little boat, and the magical selkies in the sea, hold the key to bringing his grandfather back to life, against all the odds.

'This little story is a masterpiece . . . gripping . . . the work of a major writer at his very best' Books For Keeps