Julián is a Mermaid

Julián is a Mermaid
By Jessica Love
Candlewick Press, 2018. Picture Book.

Julián can’t help his fascination with the beautiful mermaids that he sees one day on the train. He loves their glamour, and their poise, and how colorful they are. When he gets home he dresses himself up, hoping to capture their beauty. But then his Abuela gets home, and he worries that she won’t approve of his costume.

A picture book all about acceptance of one’s own self-image, “Julián is a Mermaid” is a lovely and sweet story. Although Julián loves his new clothes and the way he feels in them, he’s a little bit scared to reveal how he sees himself to his grandmother. Her love for him makes this story a joy to read. Just as wonderful as the story are the absolutely stunning, colorful illustrations. Everything is bright and beautiful, and reminiscent of water and sea creatures in both color scheme and style. This stunning book will warm hearts of parents and children who are learning how to see the world in new ways, and who will delight with its lovely images.

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