cartoon cover of a kid diving in the ocean

A Mermaid Girl

by Sana Rafi Author and Olivia Aserr Illustrator

A young girl, Heba, celebrates her first time wearing a burkini in this heartwarming picture book. It highlights timeless summer activities, cultural traditions, and intergenerational bonds. Excited to wear her new yellow swimsuit to the community pool, Heba hopes to resemble the mermaid girls in her family and shine like the sun. However, when her friends ask questions about her swimsuit, she feels self-conscious and doubts her choice.

With Mama’s support, Heba finds strength in the mermaid girls before her. Connecting with her family, she’s ready to show her friends she can do the same things—handstands, summersaults, and diving—while wearing her burkini. This book is suggested for readers ages 5 to 7.

(This book may contain a sharpie mark on the top or bottom edge and may show mild signs of shelfwear.)