FICTION

The Mermaid

by Jan Brett (text) & illus. by Jan Brett
Putnam. May 2024. 32p. Board. $9.99 ISBN 9780593695746.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 2–It’s never too soon to start bringing toddlers and babies into the wondrous details of Brett’s books, so there is much to love about this sturdy 2017 retelling of Goldilocks’s story, now in a board book and therefore a portable, chewable form. The text has not been altered; in the waters just off Okinawa, Kiniro, a mermaid is drawn to a small seashell house. When she enters, she finds a table set for breakfast. She samples each dish, but prefers the smallest one and finishes it. Her puffer fish friend observes all, including her discovery by the octopus family when they return to their home. Vibrant illustrations in shades of turquoise, pink, green, and blue include fantastical border art, perhaps for older siblings to help explore.
VERDICT This has always been a book to share, but now it’s ready for little hands. For folktale and fairy tale shelves, too.
Reviewed by Kimberly Olson Fakih , Jul 01, 2024

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Biscuit Visits the Firehouse
by Capucilli, Alyssa Satin
BOOKS

Detective Sweet Pea: The Case of the Golden Bone
by Varon, Sara
BOOKS

Wagnificent: The Adventures of Thunder and Sage
by Murguia, Bethanie
BOOKS

Pinkalicious: Lost in Paris
by Kann, Victoria
BOOKS

Reina Ramos: Neighborhood Helper
by Otheguy, Emma
BOOKS

Hugs for Pug
by Long, Ethan
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?