All About Mermaids by Izzy Quinn

From the moment I cracked open All About Mermaids by Izzy Quinn, I was transported into a world where the ocean whispers secrets and mermaids are more than just myth—they’re guardians of a hidden, magical realm. This enchanting middle-grade novel (though equally captivating for adults) blends folklore, adventure, and heartfelt emotion into a story that lingers long after the last page.

If you’ve ever wondered what lies beneath the waves or longed for a tale that balances wonder with deep emotional resonance, All About Mermaids is a must-read. Below, I’ll dive into the plot, characters, themes, and why this book stands out in the sea of mermaid literature.

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All About Mermaids follows young Cora, a curious and brave girl who stumbles upon a life-changing secret: mermaids are real, and they’re in danger. When Cora rescues a wounded mermaid named Lira, she’s pulled into an underwater world teeming with magic, ancient rivalries, and a looming ecological threat.

Without giving away major spoilers, the story unfolds as Cora and Lira embark on a quest to unite fractured merfolk clans before an ancient enemy destroys their home. Along the way, they encounter mythical sea creatures, solve riddles tied to lost merfolk history, and confront their own fears about belonging and courage.

The pacing is masterful—swift enough to keep younger readers engaged but rich with detail that makes the world feel alive. Quinn avoids predictable tropes, instead weaving a tale that feels fresh and immersive.

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Cora is a protagonist you root for from page one. Unlike the typical "chosen one" archetype, she’s an ordinary girl who stumbles into an extraordinary role. Her growth from a hesitant outsider to a determined leader is organic and deeply satisfying.

Lira is more than just a mystical guide; she’s a fully realized character with her own fears and flaws. Her struggle between duty and friendship adds emotional weight to the story.

From the gruff but wise elder merfolk to the mischievous sea sprites, every side character feels purposeful. Quinn avoids one-dimensional villains, instead presenting antagonists with understandable (if misguided) motives.

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Quinn’s prose is lyrical without being overwrought, making it accessible for younger readers while still evocative for adults. Descriptions of the underwater kingdom are vivid—I could almost feel the cool ocean currents and shimmering coral reefs.

The dual-perspective structure (alternating between Cora and Lira) deepens the emotional stakes. Quinn also incorporates merfolk folklore in interludes, enriching the world-building without slowing the plot.

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Beneath its magical surface, All About Mermaids tackles profound themes:

• Environmental Stewardship – The merfolk’s plight mirrors real-world ocean conservation issues.
• Unity vs. Division – The fractured merfolk clans reflect how fear can divide communities.
• Belonging & Identity – Cora’s journey resonates with anyone who’s felt like an outsider.

These themes never feel heavy-handed but instead emerge naturally through the characters’ struggles.

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I didn’t expect to cry over a mermaid book, but here we are. Cora’s bond with Lira—and her ultimate sacrifice—hit me hard. The book balances whimsy with genuine emotional depth, making it a rare gem in middle-grade fantasy.

One passage that stayed with me:

"The ocean remembers what the land forgets: that magic isn’t in the waving of a wand, but in the choosing to be brave when the world feels too big."

Moments like this elevate the story from fun adventure to something truly special.

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Fans of The Tail of Emily Windsnap or The Mermaid’s Sister will adore this, but All About Mermaids stands out for its ecological messaging and nuanced characters. It’s more Moana than The Little Mermaid—centering agency, cultural preservation, and environmentalism.

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✔ Rich world-building – The merfolk society feels fully realized.
✔ Emotional depth – Themes of friendship and sacrifice resonate.
✔ Pacing – Never drags, with well-placed action and quieter moments.

❌ Some predictable beats – A few plot twists are telegraphed early.
❌ Desire for more lore – I’d love a companion guide to merfolk history!

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Perfect for:

• Middle-grade readers (ages 8-12) who love fantasy.
• Adults who enjoy nostalgic, heartfelt fairy tales.
• Fans of ocean-themed adventures or eco-conscious stories.

Not ideal for:

• Readers who prefer grimdark or high-stakes violence.

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Ready to dive in? Grab your copy here:
Amazon

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All About Mermaids is more than a children’s book—it’s a reminder that magic exists in courage, connection, and the natural world. Izzy Quinn has crafted a story that’s as moving as it is enchanting, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Discussion Question: If you met a mermaid, what’s the first question you’d ask them? Let me know in the comments!

Happy reading, and may your shelves always be filled with wonder. 📚✨

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