Nomi, the mermaid who couldn’t pick a tail
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Nomi’s tail is very different from the other mermaids in the ocean. The others make fun of how her tail glows so much, so Nomi sets off to find a new tail. When she doesn’t find one she likes, Nomi meets three wise fish who explain that it’s not her looks she should be concerned about. It’s who she surrounds herself with.
Kids need books where they can relate to characters going through the same societal issues as they are
Many kids struggle with self-consciousness about their appearance or things they can’t change. I recently talked about this with another mom. My son is small, and we constantly get comments about his size. This mother said she had the same problem, but it was because her daughter is very tall. I know that once my son is older, he will get comments about his size, just like I did (and still do). The Mermaid Who Couldn’t Pick a Tail provides a starting point for discussing what it means to accept who you are and ignore what others say. Something I needed to hear even as an adult!
People say mean things when they are uncomfortable about themselves
As kids get older, they may become acutely conscious of their physical appearance, abilities, or social standing, leading to a range of emotions and behaviors. Adults and caregivers must create a supportive environment fostering self-acceptance and open communication. The Mermaid Who Couldn’t Pick a Tail helps to open up this discussion. Like Nomi, kids try to change things about themselves, hoping to fit in with people they don’t belong with.
The symbolism of changing a tail (or Nomi’s outfit) is because one of the first things children change to fit in is their clothes. This provides an instant connection with the reader. She tries on various colors, but those aren’t enough for the other mermaids to stop making fun of her. It is when she changes her friends and finally is comfortable being herself.
The Mermaid Who Couldn’t Pick a Tail shows how to navigate these complex situations
By cultivating a positive self-image and teaching resilience, children can develop the tools to navigate the challenges of self-consciousness. The Mermaid Who Couldn’t Pick a Tail is a must-read for families to build a foundation for a child’s confidence. These lessons gained from this story help guide them through their formative years. Included at the back of the book are five questions that parents or caregivers can talk through to get the conversation going about how they can relate to Nomi’s situation. I always appreciate when authors go beyond writing a story and show their passion for the topic.
The illustrations are fashionable
The pictures in The Mermaid Who Couldn’t Pick a Tail suit the fashion metaphor ideally. The colors are vibrant and detailed. The mermaids jump off the page, and you feel as if you are underwater with them. The fish and other sea creatures added a fun element, making a powerful story light-hearted and fun.
The Mermaid Who Couldn’t Pick a Tail is a fabulous read and I highly recommend it for middle schoolers!
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