Julian Is a Mermaid: questions to ask and activities to try
Julian sees three mermaids on the subway, and he knows he's a mermaid too. Julian Is a Mermaid is a joyful, award-winning story about being yourself and being loved for it.
What age is it for? Julian Is a Mermaid is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Being yourself, and being loved for it.
Julian Is a Mermaid (Jessica Love)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Being yourself, and being loved for it
Let the beautiful pictures do most of the talking. Pause when Nana sees Julian's costume and ask what your child thinks she'll do. Her response is the heart of the book.
What it helps with
- Being yourself
- Dressing up and imagination
- Feeling accepted by family
- Celebrating differences
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “What did Julian see on the subway?”
- “What did he use to make his costume?”
- “How did he feel when Nana saw him?”
- “What did Nana do?”
- “Who loves you just as you are?”
- “What would you love to dress up as?”
5-minute activities to try together
Make a costume
Use scarves, curtains or towels to make a costume of whatever your child loves.
Love notes
Tell your child three things you love about them that have nothing to do with what they wear or do.
Free printables: Julian Is a Mermaid worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
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If your child liked this, try
I'm a Girl! (Yasmeen Ismail)
- Best for
- Being yourself, whatever anyone expects
- Age
- 3-7
Elmer (David McKee)
- Best for
- Children who feel different or want to fit in
- Age
- 2-6
Perfectly Norman (Tom Percival)
- Best for
- A child who hides something about themselves to fit in
- Age
- 4-7
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By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.