A Deep Dive into “The Girl Who Liked To Eat Fish” – A Whimsical Mermaid Tale for Young Readers

Introduction: A Splash of Joy and Rhyme

If you’re searching for a bedtime story that combines whimsy, humor, and heart, The Girl Who Liked To Eat Fish by Leslie Garland is a delightful catch. This rhyming children’s book, part of Garland’s Funny Rhyming Story Series, follows the adventures of a mermaid with an unusual appetite—one that sets her apart from her underwater friends.

Perfect for parents, teachers, and young readers who adore playful language and vibrant storytelling, this book is a charming addition to any child’s library. But does it live up to its promise of being a funny, engaging read? Let’s dive in and find out.

Plot Summary: A Mermaid with a Unique Taste

Without giving away major spoilers, the story revolves around a young mermaid who, unlike her peers, has a peculiar fondness for eating fish. While most mermaids in folklore are depicted as gentle sea creatures, this protagonist’s love for seafood (including her potential friends!) creates a humorous dilemma.

The narrative unfolds in a lighthearted, rhythmic manner as the mermaid navigates her cravings while trying to fit in. Will she find a way to reconcile her appetite with her social life? The resolution is both clever and heartwarming, reinforcing themes of acceptance and individuality.

Character Analysis: A Mermaid Unlike Any Other

The protagonist stands out not just for her unusual diet but also for her spirited personality. She’s curious, unapologetically herself, and refreshingly different from traditional mermaid characters. Unlike Ariel from The Little Mermaid, who longs for human connection, this mermaid’s conflict is internal—her struggle between instinct and friendship.

The supporting cast—whether fish friends or skeptical sea creatures—adds depth to the story. Their reactions range from shock to amusement, making the interactions dynamic and engaging for young readers.

Writing Style & Narrative Technique: Rhyme That Shines

Leslie Garland’s strength lies in her ability to craft smooth, engaging rhymes that never feel forced. The rhythm flows naturally, making it an excellent read-aloud book for bedtime or classroom settings. The playful language keeps children entertained while subtly reinforcing phonetic awareness—a bonus for early readers.

The illustrations (if included in the edition) complement the text beautifully, enhancing the whimsical tone. The pacing is brisk, ensuring that even the most restless listeners stay engaged.

Themes & Deeper Meanings: More Than Just a Fishy Tale

Beneath its humorous surface, the book explores meaningful themes:

  • Self-Acceptance: The mermaid learns to embrace her quirks, teaching kids that being different is okay.
  • Friendship & Compromise: The story shows how friendships can thrive even when people (or mermaids) have conflicting interests.
  • Humor as a Teaching Tool: The absurdity of a fish-eating mermaid makes the lesson memorable rather than preachy.

These layers make the book more than just a silly story—it’s a conversation starter about individuality and kindness.

Personal Reading Experience: Laughter & Warmth

Reading this book aloud to my niece was an absolute joy. She giggled at the mermaid’s dilemma (“Why can’t she just eat seaweed like the others?”) and was genuinely invested in how the story resolved. The rhyming structure made it easy for her to anticipate words, boosting her confidence as an emerging reader.

Emotionally, the book strikes a balance between lightheartedness and sincerity. It doesn’t shy away from the mermaid’s conflict but resolves it in a way that feels satisfying without being overly moralistic.

Comparison to Other Works in the Genre

Fans of The Pout-Pout Fish by Deborah Diesen or The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister will appreciate this book’s blend of humor and heart. Like those classics, The Girl Who Liked To Eat Fish uses sea creatures to teach universal lessons. However, Garland’s approach is more comedic, making it ideal for kids who enjoy sillier stories.

Strengths & Minor Weaknesses

Strengths:

✅ Engaging Rhymes: The rhythm is flawless, making it a pleasure to read aloud.
✅ Unique Premise: A fish-eating mermaid is a fresh twist on mermaid lore.
✅ Valuable Themes: Delivers meaningful messages without being heavy-handed.

Minor Weaknesses:

❌ Limited Conflict Depth: Some readers might wish for a more complex resolution.
❌ Illustration Dependency: If the version lacks pictures, younger kids might need extra engagement.

Target Audience: Who Will Love This Book?

  • Ages 3-7: Perfect for preschoolers and early elementary kids.
  • Parents & Educators: Great for read-aloud sessions or teaching rhyming patterns.
  • Mermaid & Ocean-Themed Story Lovers: A fun addition to underwater adventure collections.

Memorable Quotes & Passages

While the entire book is quotable, one standout moment is when the mermaid muses:

“I love to swim, I love the sea,
But fish taste oh-so-yummy to me!”

This line captures the book’s playful tone and internal conflict perfectly.

Cultural & Historical Context

Mermaid tales have existed for centuries, often portraying them as ethereal or tragic figures. Garland’s take is a modern, humorous spin that aligns with contemporary children’s literature trends—embracing diversity, individuality, and lighthearted storytelling.

Final Verdict: A Catch Worth Making

The Girl Who Liked To Eat Fish is a delightful, funny, and surprisingly touching story that stands out in the sea of children’s books. Its clever rhymes, unique premise, and heartwarming message make it a must-read for young audiences.

🔗 Get the Book: Amazon

Discussion Questions for Readers:

  • How would you feel if you had a habit that made you different from your friends?
  • Can you think of another story where a character learns to accept themselves?
  • What’s your favorite funny children’s book?

Have you read this book? Share your thoughts below! 🧜‍♀️📖

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