#blogbookaday: Julián Is a Mermaid

Summary:  “While riding the subway home from the pool with his abuela one day, Julián notices three women spectacularly dressed up. Their hair billows in brilliant hues, their dresses end in fishtails, and their joy fills the train car. When Julián gets home, daydreaming of the magic he’s seen, all he can think about is dressing up just like the ladies in his own fabulous mermaid costume: a periwinkle curtain for his tail, the fronds of a potted fern for his headdress. But what will Abuela think about the mess he makes — and even more importantly, what will she think about how Julián sees himself? Mesmerizing and full of heart, Jessica Love’s author-illustrator debut is a jubilant picture of self-love and a radiant celebration of individuality.” (Taken from Goodreads)

Review: Julián goes swimming with his abuela every weekend, but one weekend is different because Julián sees three women dressed as mermaids and wants to be a mermaid too. But when his abuela sees him, what will she think? This is a story of individuality, not conforming to traditional gender roles and not only familial love, but self-love and acceptance.

Personal Reaction: I’ve heard a lot about this book over the past few months and it did not disappoint! It’s a beautifully diverse book, filled with people you might meet on the street on any given day with a message of acceptance and love. What more can you ask for in a picture book?

Title: Julián Is A Mermaid
Author: Jessica Love
Illustrator: Jessica Love
Publisher: Candlewick
Publication Date: May 22, 2018

This is a new idea I’m trying on my blog this year that was inspired by @donalynbooks and @heisereads – to provide a brief review of a picture book every day of 2018. You’ll get a brief summary of the story, a review of the content, illustrations and theme, my personal reaction to the book and all the pertinent publication information! Enjoy!