The Mermaid: How Sirena Learned to Swim

The Mermaid: How Sirena Learned to Swim is a picture book written by Patty Brozo and illustrated by Annie Bowler. This book cover shows a young girl sitting on the side of a lake hugging her knees to her chest. The water has a silhouette of a mermaid in it with the title written overtop of that in pink letters.

written by by Patty Brozo, illustrated by Annie Bowler

40 pages, 5–9 years; published 2026 by Tilbury House Publishers

A relatable story about a girl’s fear of the water while on a family vacation. Sirena’s grandfather makes an unexpected presence one morning in an effort to coax her into the lake. His strategy is allowing Sirena to join him at her own pace. Brozo does a wonderful job of establishing Poppo’s personality in just a few words and gestures. Readers will feel the bond between grandfather and granddaughter and identify with the gradual comfort Sirena gains. Theres’s an especially nice wordless spread where Bowler’s illustrations reinforce the trust and enjoyment these characters share. The Mermaid: How Sirena Learned to Swim is a great summer read.

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