THE MERMAID WITH NO TAIL

THE MERMAID WITH NO TAIL - by Jessica Long. Illustrated by Airin O' Gallaghan

During the Super Bowl in 2021 a moving commercial was aired. It was of a swimmer with no legs. The commercial focused on a young lady who was swimming through several scenes that we later found out were from her life. Originally born in Siberia, she was adopted by parents who were willing to take on a child with challenges. This young lady was a fighter and desired more than anything else to be able to swim and swim competitively. I can't tell you who played in the Superbowl that year, but I can tell you that that commercial made a lasting impression on me. I've included a link in case you're not familiar with it or desire to see it again. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www.youtube.com/watch%3Fv%3Dzvxqtalk1FU&ved=2ahUKEwiyl83_hJ-GAxX_l4kEHZwqCGEQwqsBegQIDRAG&usg=AOvVaw03JYLKD8sWrAu4nGYHcOAD

Today's picture book is written by that young lady, Jessica Long. Long shares her story through the eyes of a mermaid who has no tail. She tells about how the other mermaids really wanted nothing to do with her, because she was so different. This story is a beautiful tale of working on and overcoming difficulties in life. These stories are so important for our kids for 2 reasons. 1. They teach us to be kind to those who struggle. People with physical challenges are still people! 2. They also teach that when we struggle, which everyone does at some point, that doesn't have to be the end of the story. Tatiana's fins don't grow back. She has to accept what she doesn't have, but she strengthens what she does have and moves forward. This is a lesson we could all take to heart!

This book also gives a wonderful nod to adoption!

O'Callaghan's illustrations are exactly what you would desire in a book like this. Ocean colors such as teal and sea green are prevalent. Coral, lavender, and blue-gray accentuate bringing life and movement to the mermaids and sea creatures.