Families who loved Third Grade Mermaid by Peter Raymundo 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 is struggling with a specific school subject and starting to feel like they are just not good at it. It is perfect for the student who excels in extracurriculars, like sports or art, but feels defeated by the traditional classroom. Cora the mermaid loves being on the swim team, but her spot is threatened by a failing grade in spelling. Through a magic diary and the help of her friends, Cora learns that academic success is a skill to be practiced rather than an innate talent. This humorous, diary-style chapter book captures the authentic anxiety children feel when facing high stakes tests. It avoids being preachy by focusing on Cora's internal journey and the relatable distractions of third grade life. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's frustration while providing a gentle roadmap for building grit and study habits through the lens of a fun, underwater world.