“What is it?”

From Joey Weiser’s Mermin: Out of Water.

When Pete, Toby, and Claire find Mermin washed up on the beach, they’re not sure what to think of the fish-like boy, but when he saves Pete from a shark attack, they quickly befriend the odd creature. Despite trying to prepare him to fit in and Mermin’s best efforts, Pete and Toby repeatedly find themselves getting in trouble at school with Mermin. Pete’s parents are less than thrilled that Mermin is staying with them, especially since the young merman is so reluctant to return to his home in the kingdom of Mer, but Pete repeatedly begs for Mermin to be able to stay. When Mermin’s father learns of Mermin’s location, he sends three warriors to capture him and bring him home, but Mermin fights to be free. However, when Pete is kidnapped as sea monster collateral to make Mermin turn himself in and return home, Toby and Claire must help Mermin discover his inner bravery to save Pete before it’s too late.

Fun animation style and characters easily carry the fantasy adventure. A quick story that will leave readers ready for the next adventure of Mermin and his friends. While Mermin: Out of Water is a fun book, it also manages to present an important message about friendship without being overly pushy that will make both parents and kids happy.