A Field Guide to Mermaids
What’s inside...
A Field Guide to Mermaids is a magical and beautifully illustrated guidebook that introduces readers to the mermaids inhabiting the waters of the United States. Based on real ecological details and with a strong environmental focus, author Emily B. Martin shares the never-before-told stories of various mermaid species. The guidebook is perfect for anyone fascinated by these mythical creatures and fans of The Magical Unicorn Society series.
Age
8-12
Length
144 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What characteristics do you think make a mermaid unique compared to other mythical creatures?
How do you think the mermaids in the book feel about their environment? What clues in the illustrations or text suggest that?
If you could ask a mermaid one question, what would it be and why?
What lessons do you think we can learn from the way mermaids live together and interact with their world?
Imagine if you were a mermaid for a day. What part of the ocean would you explore first and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite mermaid from the book. Ask them to think about what makes that mermaid special and how they relate to them.
Discuss the setting of the book. Prompt your child to imagine what living under the sea could be like and what challenges mermaids might face.
While reading, pause to discuss the illustrations. Ask your child to point out details that capture their interest or elements that they find beautiful or mysterious.
Use the book as an opportunity to explore themes of community and environment. Discuss how the mermaids care for their home and compare that to how we take care of our environment.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their own mermaid or underwater scene, letting them express what they found interesting about the mermaid world.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Conservation awareness
Explanation: The book delves into the lives of mermaids and their natural habitats, illustrating the importance of preserving underwater ecosystems.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to engage in real-world activities such as beach clean-ups and learn about marine conservation projects.
Example Lesson: Diversity and acceptance
Explanation: Mermaids in the book come from various backgrounds and have unique characteristics, teaching the value of embracing differences.
Real-World Application: This can be applied in everyday interactions with peers from different cultures or with different abilities, promoting inclusivity.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and learning
Explanation: The protagonist explores various underwater regions documenting different mermaid species, showcasing the joy of learning new things.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to be inquisitive about the natural world around them and to seek knowledge through books, documentaries, or hands-on activities.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes ethical interactions with natural environments, portraying the mermaids gently caring for their surroundings.
Real-World Application: Children learn to be thoughtful and responsible during their outdoor activities, ensuring they leave environments as they found them.
Example Lesson: Courage to explore
Explanation: The young mermaid adventurers display bravery as they navigate unfamiliar waters, teaching children the courage to face the unknown.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to try new activities, meet new people, and embrace challenges in their everyday life.