Orpheline: A Mermaid Lost and Found Story: A Mermaid Lost and Found Story

Ages 3 to 7, Grades P to 2

Discovering a baby mermaid on the beach is a dream come true—until Cora realizes that her wonderful find is someone else’s loss. A beautifully illustrated story for mermaid fans and tenderhearted readers everywhere.

“I’m Cora,” I say. “Don’t be afraid. You aren’t lost anymore. You’re found.”

Combing the beach after a lashing storm, Cora is busy filling her bag with sea glass when she spies an amazing sight by the water’s edge: a tiny mermaid nestled in an abalone shell. Mama’s face turns pale when she sees her, but soon the half baby, half fish is squirming in the bathtub, giggling on wheelbarrow rides, exploring tide pools, and playing shadow games with Cora. All is blissful until Cora hears some strange whispering coming from the baby’s shell necklace, a voice that calls “Orpheline, Orpheline . . .” Protest as she will, Cora knows that this precious baby belongs to the sea—and to someone who misses her dearly. Poignant, atmospheric, and shimmering with mermaid magic, Orpheline will win the heart of every child who’s longed to have their fantasies come true, if only for a little while.

About the Author

Katelyn Aronson is the author of Poo-dunit? A Forest Floor Mystery, illustrated by Stephanie Laberis, as well as several other picture books, including Piglette, illustrated by Eva Byrne; Clovis Keeps His Cool, illustrated by Eve Farb; and When PB Met J, illustrated by Sarah Rebar. She grew up in California and now divides her time between France and Switzerland.

Dow Phumiruk is the award-winning illustrator of several picture books, including A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth by Christina Soontornvat. Originally from Thailand, Dow Phumiruk lives in Colorado.