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Winner of a 2019 Stonewall Book Award

“Refreshingly, Spanish words aren’t italicized. Though it could easily feel preachy, this charmingly subversive tale instead offers a simple yet powerful story of the importance of being seen and affirmed.”

Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

“[Julian] is, in a word, fabulous. Love lets an anxious beat pass before Abuela takes Julián by the hand, leading him to what some readers may recognize as the Coney Island Mermaid Parade. “Like you, mijo,” says Abuela. “Let’s join them.” Love’s deep empathy for her characters and her keen-eyed observations of urban life come together in a story of love, understanding, and embracing the mermaid within us all.”

Publishers Weekly, Starred Review

Julián Is a Mermaid

Written by Jessica Love
Illustrated by Jessica Love
Published by Candlewick Press

While riding the subway home from the pool with his abuela one day, Julián notices three women spectacularly dressed up. Their hair billows in brilliant hues, their dresses end in fishtails, and their joy fills the train car. When Julián gets home, daydreaming of the magic he’s seen, all he can think about is dressing up just like the ladies in his own fabulous mermaid costume: a butter-yellow curtain for his tail, the fronds of a potted fern for his headdress. But what will Abuela think about the mess he makes — and even more importantly, what will she think about how Julián sees himself? Mesmerizing and full of heart, Jessica Love’s author-illustrator debut is a jubilant picture of self-love and a radiant celebration of individuality.
Look for the Spanish version, Julián Es Una Sirena.

Primary ISBN: 9780763690458
Publication Date: April 2018
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented: ,

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Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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