The Secret Lives of Mermaids (The Secret Lives Series)
The Secret Series
on Goodreads (31)
What’s inside...
Dive in to discover all there is to know about mermaids in this beautifully illustrated book. But wait - if you thought mermaids were fantasy creatures who existed only in myth and fairytale, think again! New research has uncovered what a rich and varied group of beings they are. The famed merologist Professor Tola's great work covers everything from their long and sinewy tails to the magical properties of merpeople from the Pacific Ocean to the frozen Arctic. Merperson researchers from the Institute of Merology have discovered a secret underwater kingdom where these magical beings swim, play, learn and sing. Now you can become a mermaid expert too!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-9
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think it would be like to live underwater like the mermaids in the book? How would your daily life be different?
The mermaids in the book have their own unique culture and traditions. What is one tradition that you found interesting or would like to learn more about?
How do the mermaids help each other in their community? Can you think of ways we help each other in our community?
What challenges do the mermaids face in their environment? How do they overcome them?
If you could be friends with any character from the book, who would it be and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to bring the underwater world to life. Try using different voices for the various mermaid characters to make the story more engaging.
After reading, encourage your child to draw their favorite scene or character from the book. Discuss why they made their choice and what they liked most about it.
Link themes from the book to real-life scenarios. For example, discuss the importance of community and teamwork, drawing parallels with your child’s experiences at school or in extracurricular activities.
Encourage your child to ask questions about the mermaids’ secret lives and explore the answers together. This can lead to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the book’s themes.
Discuss the moral lessons in the book and relate them to everyday life, enhancing your child’s empathy and ethical reasoning.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and appreciating diversity
Explanation: The book introduces a variety of mermaid species, each with unique cultures and characteristics, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by embracing differences among their peers and learning to appreciate diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Importance of conservation
Explanation: The narrative highlights the impact of human activities on the ocean and its inhabitants, stressing the importance of protecting marine environments.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to engage in environmentally friendly practices like recycling and participating in local clean-up efforts.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and pursuit of knowledge
Explanation: The characters in the book explore their underwater world, demonstrating curiosity and a thirst for discovery.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to ask questions, seek answers, and explore the world around them with enthusiasm.
Example Lesson: Value of teamwork
Explanation: The mermaids often work together to solve problems and overcome obstacles, underscoring the effectiveness of collaboration.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be reflected in children's day-to-day life by emphasizing cooperation during group activities at school or in sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Despite various threats, the mermaid communities stay resilient and adaptive, which is a crucial survival trait.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist and maintain a positive attitude during difficult times or when facing new challenges.