Mermaid School

Reach for this book when your child is facing a major transition, like starting a new school year or joining a new club, and is struggling with the 'what-ifs' of fitting in. While the setting is a whimsical underwater world, the emotional core is deeply relatable for any elementary student navigating social hierarchies and the pressure to perform. Marnie Blue's journey through her first week at Mermaid School captures the fluttery stomach and the desire to be liked, while providing a safe, fantasy-wrapped space to discuss these very real anxieties. Through Marnie's experiences, children see that everyone, even those who seem confident, has insecurities. The story moves from first-day jitters to a moment of moral courage, making it an excellent choice for building social confidence. It is a gentle, supportive read that validates a child's feelings while modeling how to be a good friend and stand up for others in a new environment.