Abstract

Mariana the Mermaid is not like the other mermaids. Abandoned by a careless mother on the ocean floor, she has never laughed or played, and can barely even swim. She feels useless.

Then she meets Muriel the Turtle, who welcomes her into her family and teaches her to sing her own mighty song, making her feel confident and ready to join in with the other mermaids.

Written for children aged 4+, this picture book uses a simple metaphor to show how children who have experienced neglect or who lack confidence can learn to find a sense of self-worth. It will help children explore their feelings and encourage communication.

The little mermaid's journey is captivating as she moves from feeling lost and lonely to finding friends and discovering her voice. This is such an important message, beautifully told, for children who lack self worth and feel that they have nothing about them worthy of love. The Mermaid Who Couldn't' is a moving story of hope!
Jay Vaughan, Family Futures Clinical Director
The Mermaid Who Couldn't is a powerful and beautifully illustrated story for children and adults alike, reminding us that even in the depths of self-doubt and despair, the capacity for change can come from something as simple as an act of kindness and a helping hand.
Rita Soronen, President & CEO, Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption
Ali Redford is an adoptive parent of siblings who has worked in education, theatre and marketing. She has been through a lot of family therapy and, on a good day, seems to be coming out the other side, touch wood. Kara Simpson is a freelance illustrator and mother of two. They both live in the South of England.
Themes of belonging, perseverance and hope, gently lap over this rich and poetic tale. A beautiful gem of a book that will delight and encourage all little mermaids learning to sing a different song and those helping them to learn. I heartily recommend it.
Sally Donovan OBE, author of No Matter What and The Unofficial Guide to Adoptive Parenting