Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Courage outshines beauty in fantastic undersea adventure.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In PLAIN JANE AND THE MERMAID, Jane faces homelessness after her parents die, unless she finds someone willing to marry her. Shamed for being overweight and ugly, Jane is sure no one will marry her, except perhaps Peter, the handsome fishmonger's son who might say yes to escape his overbearing father. When Peter is captured by a mermaid and dragged deep into the sea, Jane risks everything to save him. But the ocean holds more dangers and temptations than Jane expected. Can Jane save Peter and herself?
Is It Any Good?
This engaging graphic novel combines action, adventure, folklore, and a strong positive message with lovely art. Plain Jane and the Mermaid explores youth and beauty culture in our society, using fantasy and parable to reinforce the messaging that who you are is more important than how you look.
The art is beautifully rendered. The character expressions give life to the story, and the color palette adds meaning and depth to the line art. There's a good mix of dialogue and silent scenes, allowing the images to speak for themselves. The back of the book includes a note by the author explaining why she wrote the story, as well as her artistic process.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Jane's courage influences the other characters' actions in Plain Jane and the Mermaids.
How does Jane's perception of herself change throughout the story? How does her perception of Peter change?
How does media shape the way we view beauty and attraction?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Vera Brosgol
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic )
- Character Strengths : Courage , Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : First Second
- Publication date : May 7, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 10 - 14
- Number of pages : 368
- Available on : Paperback, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Award : Common Sense Selection
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
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