
Julián Is a Mermaid
Jessica Love · 2018
Age 5-6F&P K
🏆 Stonewall Book Award (2019)🏆 The Atlantic 65 Essential (2025)
View on Open Library ↗About This Book
Julián sees three women dressed as mermaids on the subway and is mesmerized. At home, he uses a curtain, flowers, and ferns to transform himself. When his abuela sees him, she takes him to the Coney Island Mermaid Parade.
Why This Age
The wordless-at-key-moments approach lets 5-6 year olds interpret Julián's feelings and Abuela's acceptance themselves.
How to Use
- Let your child dress up as whatever they imagine
- Discuss: 'What did Abuela think? How do you know?'
- Talk about the Mermaid Parade — it's a real event
