10+ Best Mermaid Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Diving into the enchanting world of the ocean and its mystical inhabitants is a thrill for any young reader. If you've got an 8-year-old who dreams of underwater adventures and magical mermaids, you're in the right place! Our roundup of mermaid books for 8-year-olds is packed with tales that will spark their imagination and keep them turning pages. Keep reading to discover our curated lists of captivating mermaid stories that promise to be a splash hit!

Fun Mermaid Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Tail of Emily Windsnap by Liz Kessler, illustrated by Sarah Gibb
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Emily Windsnap discovers she's a mermaid when she takes her first swimming lesson. Her ensuing adventures uncover family secrets and an underwater world full of challenges and magic.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating story that encourages imagination and introduces themes of self-discovery and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love magical adventures and stories about finding one's identity.

• Narwhal: Unicorn of the Sea by Ben Clanton
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book follows Narwhal and Jellyfish, two sea creature friends who explore the ocean, enjoy waffles, and have fun adventures.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its simple yet humorous graphic novel format is great for engaging reluctant readers and encouraging a love for reading.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy comics, humor, and whimsical stories about friendship.

• The Mermaid by Jan Brett
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: A retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, set under the sea with a mermaid and her octopus family.
  • Why we recommend this book: The detailed illustrations and familiar yet unique story help young readers connect with the narrative while exploring a beautifully imagined underwater world.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy fairy tales and visually rich picture books.

• Lola's Words Disappeared by Elaheh Bos
  • Genre(s): Educational, Emotional Learning
  • Synopsis: Lola the mermaid helps children understand and express their emotions, especially when they find it hard to speak about their feelings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches emotional intelligence and coping mechanisms through a relatable mermaid character, which is crucial for children's development.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are learning to navigate their emotions and those who benefit from gentle encouragement in expressing themselves.

• Mermaid School by JoAnne Wetzel, illustrated by Julianna Swaney
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, School Life
  • Synopsis: Marnie Blue attends her first day at Lady Sealia Foam's Mermaid School and navigates new friendships, school projects, and the challenge of being the niece of the famous mermaid singer.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces school life in a fun and fantastical setting, helping children adjust to or look forward to their own school experiences.
  • Perfect for: Kids starting school or those who enjoy stories about school adventures and making new friends.

Educational Mermaid Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Mariella the Mermaid by Sheila Jarkins
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Educational
  • Synopsis: Mariella the mermaid loves exploring the vast ocean and learning about the marine environment. She teaches other sea creatures about the importance of preserving their underwater home.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Environmental awareness, marine biology, conservation
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines fun adventures with educational content about the ocean, promoting environmental consciousness from a young age.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in marine life and environmental conservation.

• Mermaid Dance by Matthew Van Fleet, illustrated by Mara Van Fleet
  • Genre(s): Interactive, Board Book
  • Synopsis: This interactive book invites young readers to join a group of mermaid friends at their underwater dance party, featuring pull-tabs, textures, and movable parts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Motor skills, pattern recognition, rhythm
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an engaging, sensory-rich book that encourages participation and play while reading.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers and preschoolers who enjoy interactive reading experiences.

• Pearl the Magical Mermaid by Sally Odgers, illustrated by Adele K. Thomas
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Pearl is a young mermaid with a special talent for magic. When trouble arises in the kingdom, she uses her skills to solve problems and help her friends.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Problem-solving, creativity, friendship dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the power of kindness and clever thinking in overcoming challenges.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories about magic and friendship.

• The Brave Little Mermaid by Simone Linn
  • Genre(s): Fairy Tale, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Inspired by classic tales, this story follows a courageous young mermaid who embarks on a quest to retrieve a stolen artifact to save her kingdom.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Courage, adventure, historical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling adventure that also imparts lessons about bravery and selflessness.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy fairy tales and heroic journeys.

• Mermaid Tales from Around the World by Mary Pope Osborne, illustrated by Troy Howell
  • Genre(s): Folklore, Multicultural
  • Synopsis: This collection presents various mermaid stories from different cultures, each offering a glimpse into the folklore of diverse communities.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, storytelling, global perspective
  • Why we recommend this book: It enriches children’s understanding of world cultures through the captivating lens of mermaid legends.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are curious about folklore and cultural stories.

Challenging Mermaid Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Mermaid and the Shoe by K.G. Campbell
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Fairy Tale
  • Synopsis: Minnow, the youngest of King Neptune’s fifty daughters, is often overlooked but discovers her own unique path when she finds a mysterious object—a shoe.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates sophisticated themes of self-discovery and independence, which are conveyed through a more nuanced storyline.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to find their own strengths and paths in life, promoting self-confidence and individuality.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fairy tales with a twist and stories about personal growth.

• Aqualicious by Victoria Kann
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Pinkalicious meets Aqua, a mini-mermaid, at the beach. Together, they explore the ocean's depths and embark on a sandy adventure.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book introduces vocabulary and concepts related to marine life and environmental care, which are more advanced topics for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines imaginative storytelling with educational content, making learning about the ocean fun and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure and are interested in sea creatures and ocean conservation.

• The Secret Mermaid: Enchanted Shell by Sue Mongredien, illustrated by Maria Pearson
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Molly discovers she's a mermaid and that her mother was queen of the Undersea Kingdom. She's tasked with saving sea creatures from danger.
  • Why this book is challenging: The plot involves complex conflicts and resolutions, which require higher-level thinking and comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's thrilling and immersive, encouraging a love for reading through mystery and adventure.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who enjoy fantasy adventures and stories about hidden identities.

• Mermaid Queen: The Spectacular True Story of Annette Kellerman, Who Swam Her Way to Fame, Fortune & Swimsuit History! by Shana Corey, illustrated by Edwin Fotheringham
  • Genre(s): Biography, Historical
  • Synopsis: This book tells the true story of Annette Kellerman, a swimmer who challenged societal norms and became known as the Mermaid Queen.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with historical contexts and societal changes, which are complex concepts for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a powerful message about perseverance and breaking barriers, providing both historical insights and inspiring life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and inspiring real-life figures.

• The Mermaid's Mirror by L.K. Madigan
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Lena, a teenager, finds herself drawn to the sea and discovers a family secret that involves a mysterious mermaid's mirror.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure includes flashbacks and multiple perspectives, requiring readers to keep track of various storylines and characters.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a captivating blend of mystery and fantasy that keeps readers engaged and stimulates their imagination.
  • Perfect for: Older children and pre-teens who enjoy complex stories and mysteries.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the enchanting world of mermaid books with your 8-year-old, you're in for a splash of fun and imagination. To make the most out of this magical reading adventure, here are some exercises that can help develop strong reading habits. These are simple, enjoyable, and perfect for young readers!

• Create a Mermaid Reading Nook
  • What it is: Set up a special corner dedicated to reading mermaid stories.
  • How it helps: Creates a magical, inviting space that encourages regular reading.
  • Tips: Decorate with ocean-themed cushions, blue blankets, and maybe even a toy mermaid!

• Mermaid Vocabulary List
  • What it is: Keep a list of new and interesting words found in mermaid books.
  • How it helps: Enhances vocabulary and understanding of the story.
  • Tips: Use a special notebook for this activity and review the words together weekly.

• Illustrate the Story
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters from the book after reading.
  • How it helps: Reinforces comprehension and allows creative expression.
  • Tips: Share the drawings with family members and discuss the story parts they represent.

• Read Aloud Together
  • What it is: Take turns reading the book aloud with your child.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and listening skills.
  • Tips: Use different voices for different characters to make it more fun and engaging.

• Story Prediction Chart
  • What it is: Before reading, guess what might happen in the story and jot it down.
  • How it helps: Enhances imaginative thinking and anticipation skills.
  • Tips: Revisit the predictions after reading to see which guesses were right.

• Question Fish Bowl
  • What it is: Write questions about the story on pieces of paper and put them in a bowl.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and focus during reading.
  • Tips: Draw a few questions from the bowl each night and discuss them together.

• Reading Time Scheduler
  • What it is: Create a weekly schedule that includes specific times set aside for reading.
  • How it helps: Helps develop a routine and prioritizes reading among daily activities.
  • Tips: Allow your child to choose the times that work best for them, giving them control over their reading habit.

These exercises aren't just about reading; they're about making reading a fun, integral part of your child's life. By incorporating these activities, you'll help cultivate a love for books and a curiosity for the stories that lie beneath the ocean's surface. Dive in and enjoy the journey through the underwater world of mermaids with your little one!