The Mermaid

Written and illustrated by Jan Brett

A mermaid's curiosity leads to chaos in an octopus family's home under the sea.

3.7/5 Goodreads · 1,187 ratings

32 pages· 736 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

$18.99Save 7%

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Bookroo's summary

In an enchanting underwater world, young mermaid Kiniro stumbles upon a seashell and coral house. Her curiosity leads her to explore, but the Octopus family returns to find their home disrupted. As tensions rise, Baby Octopus discovers Kiniro asleep in her bed. Will the mermaid's unexpected gift turn shock into friendship, or will she escape the grasp of twenty-four arms? Dive into this magical retelling of a classic tale, set in the vibrant seas off Okinawa, where every detail in the borders adds depth to the story's charm and wonder.

From the publisher

A striking under-the-sea version of Goldilocks with bonus storytelling in the borders, as only Jan Brett could create.

When Kiniro, a young mermaid, comes upon a gorgeous house made of seashells and coral, she is so curious that she goes inside. She’s thrilled to find a just-right breakfast, pretty little chair, and, best of all, a comfy bed that rocks in the current.

But when the Octopus family returns home, they are not happy to find that someone has been eating their food and breaking their things. Baby has the biggest shock when she finds the mermaid asleep in her bed! Luckily, shock turns to happiness when Kiniro gives her a thoughtful gift before escaping from the twenty-four arms coming her way.

Vibrant, intricate scenes of an underwater paradise transport this classic fairy tale to a magical setting inspired by the seas off the coast of Okinawa, Japan. Along with fun details that enrich the storytelling in Jan Brett’s trademark borders, this visual treat will enchant readers of all ages.

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