Marina: A Mermaid's Tale of Self-Discovery and Forbidden Love

Marina, a captivating young adult novel by Indonesian author Dewi Lestari, plunges us into a world where myth and reality intertwine, leaving readers breathless with its exploration of self-discovery and forbidden love.

The story centers around Marina, a curious and introspective teenager living in the vibrant coastal city of Jakarta. From a young age, Marina has been haunted by vivid dreams of an underwater kingdom inhabited by mystical mermaids. These visions seem fantastical, mere figments of her imagination, until one fateful day when she encounters Raka, a charming and enigmatic young man who shares her connection to the sea.

Raka reveals that he is not who he seems; his lineage stretches back generations of powerful water guardians, tasked with protecting the delicate balance between humans and the ocean realm. He unveils the truth about Marina’s dreams, confirming they are glimpses into her own mermaid ancestry – a heritage she never knew existed.

As Marina embarks on this extraordinary journey of self-discovery, she must confront ancient prophecies, navigate complex social hierarchies within both the human and mermaid worlds, and grapple with the forbidden nature of her blossoming love for Raka. Their relationship challenges the age-old taboo separating land dwellers from the denizens of the deep.

Marina’s narrative transcends the typical coming-of-age story. It delves into profound themes:

• Identity: The novel intricately explores the complexities of self-identity, highlighting Marina’s struggle to reconcile her human upbringing with her newfound mermaid heritage.

• Responsibility: Marina faces immense responsibility as she inherits the legacy of her ancestors – protectors of the ocean and its secrets. Her choices carry weight, impacting not just herself but the delicate balance of the entire underwater world.

• Love: Marina and Raka’s relationship defies societal norms and highlights the enduring power of love to transcend boundaries.

A Masterpiece in Prose and Imagination Marina is not just a captivating story; it is a testament to Dewi Lestari’s masterful storytelling. Her prose is lyrical and evocative, effortlessly transporting readers into the enchanting world she has created. The vivid descriptions of the underwater kingdom are breathtaking, filled with ethereal beauty and mythical creatures.

Lestari seamlessly weaves Indonesian mythology and folklore into the narrative, adding depth and richness to the story. The novel’s setting in modern-day Jakarta provides a fascinating juxtaposition – bustling city life contrasted against the ancient traditions and beliefs of the mermaid world.

Production Features that Elevate the Reading Experience Marina is available in both physical and digital formats. The hardcover edition features stunning cover art depicting Marina’s transformation into a mermaid, capturing the essence of her dual nature.

The paperback edition offers a more portable option without compromising on the book’s captivating narrative. For readers who prefer digital reading experiences, “Marina” is available as an ebook on popular platforms like Kindle and Kobo.

No matter your chosen format, “Marina” promises an unforgettable journey into self-discovery, forbidden love, and the power of embracing one’s true identity.