Family Drama; Historical Fiction; Coming-of-Age
When you've got a book set back in the 1800s, it's most likely historical fiction. Secrets at Sea takes place way back in 1897 and there's a lot in this book that stems straight from that era, so it definitely falls into the historical fiction category. You're not going to find any television or internet on the big ship—in fact, you're not going to find any other way to cross the Atlantic Ocean except by boat. Plus, in addition to getting a look at everyday life back in the 19th century, we also get a peek into some historical events—like Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee—so while fiction, this is a pretty great historical tale.
But just because Secrets at Sea has grand historical stuff in it doesn't mean this story is drama-free. In fact, Helena spends most of the book telling us about her siblings and some of the rough times they face. When they set sail for England, they're in for a seriously rocky ride with lots of squabbling, to boot—and the trip isn't going to get easy any time soon. All these ups and downs for the Cranston siblings make this book part of the family drama genre.
Adding to the drama in the book is the fact that Cranston mice have some growing up to do. Since each mouse must mature in their own ways, this book also falls into the coming of age category. In fact, when the mice start this story, they're all on the young side—Lamont is even still in school—but as the book goes on, they grow up into responsible little rodents. Helena, Beatrice, Louise, and Lamont all have a pretty touching coming-of-age tale, and they take us along for the journey.