Julián Is a Mermaid

First of all this book is a work of art full of gorgeous and playful paintings. The message is clear but not heavy-handed, simply depicting a grandmother who is accepting of her son’s desire to express his gender identity in a more feminine way. So many books about inclusion sound like boring educational textbooks but this one is a gem that manages to pack the punch of the message while weaving a fanciful tale. This book sparkles with originality and soul.

We’ve purchased this book many times for gifts. The illustrations are beautiful and the story is really sweet. It depicts a child’s creative self expression and a grandmother’s loving acceptance. One of our favorites.

my kid's favorite book since he was 4. Diversity and inclusion are important values in our household- you can never start too early, in my book. The illustrations are mesmerizing and story so simple yet eloquent. Excellent lesson for kids from 1 to 100 yrs old.

Sorry for the sideways photo but you have to see the incredible artwork. Beautiful watercolors and beautiful story. Sad to see so many people who don’t own the book commenting on their close minded views. This book not only helps children feel safe to discuss their own identity but it ALSO helps our children build emotional intelligence, tolerance and love for others and shows the beauty in being unique. I have purchased more copies to send to my friends children.

In this uplifting and delightful book, a young boy named Julián is on the subway with his abuela when he sees three women dressed up as mermaids. Julián LOVES mermaids! When they get home, Julián tells his abuela that he is also a mermaid. He finds things around the house to dress himself up with flowing hair and swishy tail. He is so full of joy and wonder! My favorite part is that Abuela never questions him. She accepts him and his desire to be a mermaid without question and encourages him to be himself. So lovely! The illustrations in this book are beautiful! The colors are bright without overwhelming our star, Julián. I love the end papers and the difference between front and back (can you spit it?) This has become a very favorite book!

Really love this book. The illustrations are beautiful. Warmly welcomes gender indentity diversity without explaination, a lovely story about a curious kid and a family member who accepts them unconditionally. Great way to demonstrate diversity, empathy and kindness without spelling it out. Bought it for a 3 year old but would be perfect for any kid (or adult, sometimes I like to flip through just to admire the artwork).

Let me start off by saying that this is a gorgeous book. The illustrations are just magical and very well done. I also really appreciate the representation in the book. You see various skin tones, hair types, and body types! Its also great to NOT see a story where the child only comes to accept themselves AFTER being bullied. This book is pure celebration. Julian is living his best life as is, and thats what kids need to see. Representation doesnt also need to include the child being torn down/bullied. I also appreciate that this book wasnt too long winded. I can get through this with a squirmy 4-5 yr old no problem. I would recommend this book for a preschooler or kindergartener.

We absolutely adored this book. Julián and his abuela are so sweet. I love that my boys asked questions and really got involved in the story. They loved that Julián can be a merMAID even though he’s a boy. I was surprised that there were so few words in the book but the illustrations are beautiful and really do all of the talking. The text that is there is very concise and perfect for my youngest with a short attention span. He actually sat through the entire reading and got involved in the story.