Mermaid & the Star
on Goodreads (7)
What’s inside...
This is the story of a mermaid who is happy in her warm, blue ocean until she finds something so wonderful that nothing can ever be the same again. Delightful board book containing tactile shapes for a child's fingers to play upon.
Discussion points
How do you think the mermaid felt when she found the star, and why?
What would you do if you found a star like the mermaid?
What does the star represent in the story, and how does it change the mermaid's life?
How can we help others who might feel lonely or lost, like the star?
What did the mermaid learn by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider the emotions of characters in different scenarios throughout the book.
Discuss the importance of helping others and making new friends, relating it to the child’s personal experiences.
Use the star as a metaphor to explore themes of hope and guidance in your child's life, discussing how they can be a 'star' in someone else's life.
At the end of the story, reflect together on the journey of the mermaid and the star. Ask your child about a time they learned something significant from helping someone else.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Differences
Explanation: Through the friendship between the mermaid and the star, this story beautifully illustrates the value of embracing and celebrating differences between individuals.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect their peers' unique qualities, fostering inclusivity and understanding in school and other social settings.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The journey of the star to find its way back to the sky teaches the importance of perseverance against obstacles.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to persist in their efforts, whether in completing school assignments, learning new skills, or dealing with personal challenges.
Example Lesson: Kindness and Friendship
Explanation: The compassionate help the mermaid offers to the star underscores the themes of kindness and the impact of friendship.
Real-World Application: Children are motivated to act kindly and supportively towards others, strengthening social bonds and contributing to a positive community environment.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The mermaid's quest to understand more about the star and its world highlights the importance of curiosity and the pursuit of knowledge.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to ask questions, seek out answers, and embrace learning opportunities both in and out of the classroom.
Example Lesson: Courage to Face the Unknown
Explanation: As both characters embark on journeys into unfamiliar territories, the story promotes the courage it takes to explore new places or ideas.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to try new activities, meet new people, or express their own ideas and opinions even when it feels daunting.