Is it a Mermaid?
on Goodreads (111)
What’s inside...
"I am a beautiful mermaid!" declares the Dugong, and she shows Benji and Bel her mermaid tail (rather big) and her mermaid singing (very bad). Is she really just a "sea cow"? Come to the ocean and get a magical surprise... Could the Dugong be a mermaid after all? Set in the Philippines, this sun-drenched picture book is about kindness and friendship - with a touch of magic.
Age
3-5
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Bel
Benjie
Dugong
Discussion points
What do you think it means to believe in something, like how Benji believes the dugong is a mermaid?
How do you think the dugong felt when she was called a 'SEA COW'? How would you feel if someone called you a name you didn't like?
Why is it important to listen to how others want to be called or identified?
Can you think of a time when you helped a friend feel better like Benji does for the dugong?
What do you think is the message of this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Initiate the conversation with a warm and curious tone to make your child feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child’s responses to show genuine interest in their perspectives.
Relate the book’s themes to your child’s personal experiences to help them connect with the story on a deeper level.
Encourage imaginative thinking by asking your child how they might act in a similar situation as the characters.
Praise your child’s responses and insights to boost their confidence and engagement in the discussion.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Identity and self-acceptance
Explanation: The story features a dugong who believes she is a mermaid, despite others telling her otherwise. This narrative explores themes of self-identity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace their unique qualities and be confident in their self-identity, regardless of others' opinions.
Example Lesson: Respect for others' feelings
Explanation: When the boy continuously denies that the dugong is a mermaid, it visibly upsets her. The story illustrates the importance of considering others' feelings.
Real-World Application: This lesson can teach children to be mindful and respectful when interacting with others, helping them develop empathy.
Example Lesson: Imagination and creativity
Explanation: The dugong's belief in being a mermaid invites readers into a world where imagination rules.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to use their imagination, which is essential for creative thinking and problem solving in real life.
Example Lesson: Accepting and celebrating differences
Explanation: The book showcases different perspectives between characters, emphasizing the value of diversity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the diverse world around them, promoting inclusivity and respect for differences.
Example Lesson: Friendship and understanding
Explanation: Despite their initial disagreements, the characters work through their misunderstandings and form a friendship by the end of the story.
Real-World Application: Children learn the significance of resolving conflicts and building positive relationships with others.