Mabel: A Mermaid Fable

PreS-Gr 2–Mabel the Mermaid feels self-conscious because she does not have a mustache like the rest of her family members. She attempts disguises but still feels embarrassed. Other sea creatures make fun of Mabel, so she spends her days hiding in holes along the bottom of the sea. One day, she meets an octopus who is also hiding (he has seven legs instead of eight). Mabel thinks he is perfect the way he is, and a friendship quickly develops. The two learn that friendship is not based on appearances and that they are beautiful just the way they are. Their newfound friendship boosts their confidence, and they face the world boldly, together—a strong message of positivity. The full-page illustrations, created with mixed media, are colorful and vibrant, illuminating the beauty of the ocean floor and its inhabitants.