by Tracy Baptiste
Illustrated by Leisl Adams
Algonquin Young Readers
2023
32 pages
ISBN: 9781643750774
Colorful illustrations by Liesl Adams come to life in this big-hearted gem of a picture book.
A huge storm comes up at sea, and the pirate loses his ship's mast. The mermaid sees the mast break and swims to save it. The pirate casts his net to save the mast, and is shocked when he pulls in not only the broken mast but a mermaid. They both say hello in their different languages.
A huge shark approaches, but the mermaid turns it away, saving the pirate's life. They retrieve the mast but it can't be repaired. Another ship approaches, and its captain spots what he thinks is a mermaid. The pirate assures him that it's only his broken mast, saving the mermaid from being captured. The pirate says goodbye to the mermaid and they part as special friends.
The pirate's boat is towed to shore. Days later, the ship is seaworthy again, and the pirate sails to the horizon, searching. The mermaid sits on a rock singing, searching the horizon until she spots a familiar ship. She swims to meet her friend again. They swim together to the setting sun.
What a lovely, precious book about inclusiveness, friendship, belonging and kindness. Even though we all may speak a different language doesn't mean we can't understand and help each other. A must have for every child.
Highly recommended ages 2 and up.
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