Mermaids CAN Be Astronauts: A Picture Book to Inspire Readers to Achieve Their Dreams
What’s inside...
Mermaids CAN Be Astronauts is a picture book by Cheryl Lee-White that aims to inspire young readers to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams, no matter how big or unconventional they may seem. Through engaging illustrations and a captivating narrative, the book follows the story of a young mermaid who dreams of exploring space and becoming an astronaut. Despite the doubts and limitations others place on her because of her identity as a mermaid, she remains determined and resourceful, finding ways to overcome obstacles and work towards her goal. The book encourages children to think creatively, embrace their unique qualities, and persist in the face of challenges, reinforcing the message that with passion and perseverance, they can achieve anything they set their minds to.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-7
Length
34 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it means when the book says mermaids can be astronauts?
How did the mermaids in the story overcome challenges to achieve their dreams?
If you could be anything, like a mermaid who becomes an astronaut, what would you want to be and why?
Can you think of a time when you worked really hard to do something that you were told was difficult? How did you feel after accomplishing it?
What lessons did you learn from the mermaids’ journey that you can apply in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their personal experiences or aspirations to those of the characters in the book.
Validate your child's ambitions by discussing how everyone, just like mermaids in the book, can achieve great things regardless of background or perceived limitations.
Ask your child to draw or describe their dream job and discuss the steps they might take to achieve it, underscoring the book’s theme of following one's dreams.
Use descriptive praise when your child shares their thoughts and ideas, to reinforce their confidence and promote articulate expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Chasing dreams without limitations
Explanation: The book illustrates a mermaid who aspires to be an astronaut, showcasing that dreams have no boundaries.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to pursue their passions relentlessly, regardless of societal norms or stereotypes.
Example Lesson: Importance of imagination and creativity
Explanation: Through the whimsical narrative of a mermaid wanting to explore space, the story fosters imagination and creative thinking.
Real-World Application: Kids learn to think outside the box and use their creativity to solve problems or express themselves in unique ways.
Example Lesson: Resilience and perseverance
Explanation: As the mermaid faces challenges in achieving her dream, she demonstrates persistence and resilience.
Real-World Application: Children understand the value of persisting through difficulties to achieve their goals, building determination.
Example Lesson: Self-confidence and belief
Explanation: The mermaid in the story believes in her capability to become an astronaut despite being a mermaid, emphasizing self-belief.
Real-World Application: This lesson instills confidence in kids to believe in themselves and their abilities, boosting their self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Breaking gender stereotypes
Explanation: By portraying a female mermaid aspiring to be an astronaut, a role traditionally dominated by males, the book challenges gender roles.
Real-World Application: Children learn to recognize and question gender stereotypes, promoting equality and empowerment.