The Mermaid Moon by Briony May Smith: A Magical, Heartfelt Journey Under the Sea

Introduction: A Tale of Wonder and Longing

There’s something undeniably enchanting about stories that blur the line between reality and fantasy, especially when they’re wrapped in the shimmering allure of the sea. The Mermaid Moon by Briony May Smith is one such gem—a beautifully illustrated children’s book that weaves a tender tale of friendship, courage, and the magic of believing in the impossible.

From the moment you open its pages, you’re transported to a coastal village where the ordinary meets the extraordinary. Smith, known for her evocative artwork and heartfelt storytelling, delivers a narrative that feels both timeless and fresh. Whether you’re a parent reading to a child or an adult revisiting the wonder of fairy tales, The Mermaid Moon is a book that lingers in the heart long after the last page.

Plot Summary: A Promise Beneath the Waves

Without giving away major spoilers, The Mermaid Moon follows the story of Merrin, a young girl who lives by the sea and dreams of the mermaids her grandmother once told her about. Every year, the village celebrates the Mermaid Moon, a special night when the ocean glows with otherworldly light. Legend says that on this night, mermaids can walk on land—but only if they’re invited.

When Merrin befriends a mysterious girl named Sanna, she begins to suspect that her grandmother’s stories might be true. But as the Mermaid Moon approaches, Merrin must decide whether to help Sanna return to the sea or keep her newfound friend by her side. The story unfolds with gentle suspense, leading to a poignant and magical resolution that celebrates love, sacrifice, and the power of belief.

Character Analysis: Merrin and Sanna’s Unlikely Friendship

At the heart of The Mermaid Moon are its two central characters: Merrin and Sanna.

  • Merrin is a relatable protagonist—curious, kind-hearted, and deeply connected to her grandmother’s stories. Her longing for magic mirrors the universal childhood desire to believe in something greater than the everyday world. Smith does an excellent job of capturing Merrin’s emotional journey, from skepticism to wonder, and ultimately to selflessness.

  • Sanna, on the other hand, is ethereal yet grounded. Her quiet strength and mysterious nature make her an intriguing counterpart to Merrin. Though she speaks little, her expressions and actions convey deep emotion, particularly her conflict between the sea and the land.

Their friendship is the soul of the story, built on mutual trust and the kind of innocent bond that only children (or mermaids) can share.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Lyrical and Visually Stunning

Briony May Smith’s writing is as fluid and mesmerizing as the ocean itself. Her prose is simple yet poetic, making it accessible for young readers while still carrying emotional weight. The narrative flows seamlessly, with each sentence feeling deliberate and meaningful.

What truly elevates The Mermaid Moon, however, is Smith’s breathtaking illustrations. Every page is a feast for the eyes—soft watercolors, intricate details, and a dreamlike quality that immerses readers in the story. The contrast between the warm, earthy tones of the village and the cool, shimmering blues of the sea reinforces the book’s central themes of duality and belonging.

Themes & Deeper Meanings: Belonging, Sacrifice, and the Magic of Stories

Beneath its enchanting surface, The Mermaid Moon explores several profound themes:

  • Belonging & Identity: Both Merrin and Sanna grapple with where they truly belong—whether it’s the land or the sea, reality or myth.
  • Sacrifice & Love: The story beautifully illustrates how love sometimes means letting go, even when it’s painful.
  • The Power of Stories: Merrin’s grandmother’s tales shape her worldview, reminding readers of the importance of storytelling in keeping magic alive.

These themes make The Mermaid Moon more than just a whimsical fairy tale—it’s a meditation on growing up, holding onto wonder, and the bittersweet nature of change.

Personal Reading Experience: A Book That Feels Like a Hug

Reading The Mermaid Moon was a deeply emotional experience. As someone who grew up near the ocean, the book’s coastal setting resonated with me, evoking nostalgia for childhood summers and the thrill of imagining what lay beneath the waves.

The ending, in particular, left me with a lump in my throat—not because it was sad, but because it was true. Smith doesn’t shy away from the melancholy of parting, yet she balances it with hope and the promise of reunion. It’s the kind of story that makes you want to sit quietly for a moment after finishing, just to let it settle in your heart.

Comparisons to Other Works in the Genre

Fans of The Secret of Roan Inish (a film about selkie folklore) or Sophie Anderson’s The House with Chicken Legs (which blends folklore with emotional depth) will find a similar magic in The Mermaid Moon. It also shares thematic similarities with The Little Mermaid, though Smith’s version is far gentler and more introspective.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

  • Gorgeous illustrations that enhance the storytelling.
  • Emotionally resonant without being overly sentimental.
  • Perfect pacing—neither rushed nor dragging.

Minor Weaknesses:

  • Some readers might wish for more dialogue, as much of the story is told through visuals and narration.
  • The ending, while beautiful, may feel bittersweet for younger children who prefer unambiguous happily-ever-afters.

Who Should Read This Book?

The Mermaid Moon is ideal for:

  • Children ages 4-8 who love fairy tales and magical stories.
  • Parents and educators looking for books that spark imagination and emotional discussion.
  • Adult readers who appreciate illustrated stories with depth.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

“The sea remembers what the land forgets.”

“On the night of the Mermaid Moon, anything is possible—if you believe.”

These lines capture the book’s essence beautifully, blending whimsy with wisdom.

Cultural & Historical Context

While The Mermaid Moon is a work of fiction, it draws on universal folklore traditions—mermaids, selkies, and lunar myths—that appear in cultures worldwide. The book’s coastal setting feels timeless, evoking the oral storytelling traditions of fishing villages where legends of the sea were passed down through generations.

Final Thoughts: A Must-Read for Dreamers of All Ages

The Mermaid Moon is more than just a children’s book—it’s a love letter to the magic of childhood, the power of stories, and the beauty of selfless love. Briony May Smith has crafted something truly special, a book that will be cherished by readers young and old.

If you’re looking for a story that will make you believe in magic again, this is it.

đź”— Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • Did you grow up with any myths or legends like Merrin’s grandmother’s stories?
  • If you could invite a mythical creature to visit for one night, what would it be?
  • How do you think Merrin and Sanna’s friendship changes them both?

Let me know your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how The Mermaid Moon touched you!

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