Families who loved I Cannot Swim, But I Want to Be a Mermaid by Fluffyrobots La often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child expresses a deep desire to join a group or activity but feels held back by a lack of skill or a physical fear. It is a perfect choice for children who struggle with the gap between their vivid imaginations and their current physical capabilities. The story follows a young protagonist who dreams of being a mermaid but faces the very real hurdle of not knowing how to swim. It gently explores themes of self-confidence, the frustration of being a beginner, and the bravery required to take the first step toward a dream. For parents, it provides a supportive framework to discuss how we can honor our big identities while working through the small, necessary steps to achieve them. It is an ideal read for ages 4 to 8, normalizing the vulnerability of starting something new.
