The Mermaid Who Couldn't: How Mariana Overcame Loneliness and Shame and Learned to Sing Her Own Song - Paperback

by Alison Redford (Author), Kara Simpson (Illustrator)

Mariana the Mermaid is not like the other mermaids. Abandoned by a careless mother on the ocean floor, she has never laughed or played, and can barely even swim. She feels useless.

Then she meets Muriel the Turtle, who welcomes her into her family and teaches her to sing her own mighty song, making her feel confident and ready to join in with the other mermaids.

Written for children aged 4+, this picture book uses a simple metaphor to show how children who have experienced neglect or who lack confidence can learn to find a sense of self-worth. It will help children explore their feelings and encourage communication.

Author Biography

Ali Redford is an adoptive parent of siblings who has worked in education, theatre and marketing. She has been through a lot of family therapy and, on a good day, seems to be coming out the other side, touch wood.

Kara Simpson is a freelance illustrator and mother of two.

They both live in the South of England.