How to Catch a Mermaid
How to Catch Series
What’s inside...
In this enchantingly detailed book from the New York Times and USA Today bestselling How to Catch series, children embark on a whimsical adventure to catch a mermaid. Using colorful illustrations and an engaging storyline, the book describes the various clever and STEAM-based schemes the children employ. The story is filled with clever rhymes, plenty of laughs, and offers an irresistible under-the-sea adventure that is perfect for mermaid lovers, summer reading, and as gifts for children ages 4-10. It makes a perfect stocking stuffer and birthday, Easter, or back to school gift for kids and mermaid enthusiasts alike.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes the mermaid in the story so special?
How would you feel if you met a mermaid? What would you ask her?
What are some ways the characters tried to catch the mermaid? Which way was your favorite and why?
How do the characters work together in the story? Can you think of a time when you worked together with someone to achieve something?
What do you think is the lesson of the story? How can we apply that lesson in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think creatively by asking them to imagine alternative endings to the story. Discuss the emotions of different characters and relate them to real life situations your child might experience, fostering empathy and understanding. Use the colorful illustrations to engage younger children, asking them to describe what they see and how those images make them feel. Lastly, emphasize the value of teamwork as shown in the book, discussing instances where working together is beneficial.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: The characters in 'How to Catch a Mermaid' work together to try and catch the mermaid, demonstrating the power of collaboration.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of cooperating with others to achieve common goals, whether in school projects or in playing sports.
Example Lesson: Creativity
Explanation: Throughout the story, the characters use inventive methods to catch the mermaid, showcasing their creative problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to think outside the box and use their imagination to solve problems in creative ways.
Example Lesson: Respect for nature
Explanation: As the story progresses, the characters learn about the mermaid and her world, gaining a respect for her and the ocean environment.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of respecting wildlife and the natural world around them, promoting environmental awareness.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Despite various challenges, the characters persist in their quest, which illustrates the value of determination and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children learn that persistence is key in overcoming obstacles and achieving objectives, a useful skill throughout life.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The characters eventually understand the feelings and perspectives of the mermaid, leading to empathy.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to consider others' feelings and viewpoints, fostering a sense of empathy and understanding in their interactions.