Book Type: Novel
Author: Kiki Thorpe
Pages: 128
Summary(goodreads.com):
The fairies in Never Land think that mermaids are nothing but trouble. So when Gabby befriends a mermaid, Kate, Mia, and Lainey warn her to stay away. But Gabby doesn’t want to lose her new friend! Tinker Bell and the Disney Fairies star in a magical early chapter book series for readers ages 6 to 9—Disney The Never Girls!
My Review:
If you love magic, fairies, mermaids, and pixie dust, then this book is for you! Before you begin the book, Thorpe gives a brief introduction on how to find Neverland and how the girls found the enchanted place of dreams. The illustrator, Jana Christy, included a really cool illustrated map of the entire island too. While the text is simply written for younger readers, it's also enjoyable for adults.
Thorpe included very rich and descriptive setting detail. I felt like I was with one of the girls, Gabby, exploring Neverland! Now, let's get to the mermaids :)
The first mermaid mentioned is Yooni, who has a pretty silver tail and green hair. She also has a strange accent and the power to make the tides come and go at her command. Cool! Unlike other versions of this classic story, where the mermaids are portrayed as mischievous and clever, these mermaids were snobbish and rude. This made the characterization of these mythic beauties boring.
The most important aspect of any children or YA book is the lessons, and Thorpe included two great ones:
1) Dont judge people until you get to know them
2) Listen to other people's feelings and thoughts
This was a great short novel that transports you to the Mermaid Lagoon of Neverland! Check out more of Kiki Thorpe's Never Girls series if you love Peter Pan, fairies, or
Neverland.
I give this book (****) 4 stars.
-Sirenita The Selkie
