Nen and the Lonely Fisherman: questions to ask and activities to try
A merman with an empty heart meets a lonely fisherman. Nen and the Lonely Fisherman is a tender fairy tale about love and loneliness.
What age is it for? Nen and the Lonely Fisherman is best for ages 4–8. Good for: A merman, a lonely fisherman and love.
Nen and the Lonely Fisherman (Ian Eagleton and James Mayhew)
- Age
- 4-8
- Best for
- A merman, a lonely fisherman and love
Read it gently and enjoy the sea pictures. Talk about loneliness and how love can come from unexpected places.
What it helps with
- Loneliness
- Love in all forms
- Being from different worlds
- Fairy tales
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.
- “Where does Nen live?”
- “What was missing?”
- “Who did he meet?”
- “Why was Ernest lonely?”
- “What stood in their way?”
- “What helps when you feel lonely?”
5-minute activities to try together
Under the sea
Draw Nen's underwater kingdom.
Lonely list
Talk about ways to help someone who seems lonely.
Free printables: Nen and the Lonely Fisherman 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
And Tango Makes Three (Justin Richardson, Peter Parnell and Henry Cole)
- Best for
- Different kinds of families, from a true penguin story
- Age
- 3-7
Grandad's Camper (Harry Woodgate)
- Best for
- A grandad's love story, grief and new adventures
- Age
- 4-8
Julian Is a Mermaid (Jessica Love)
- Best for
- Being yourself, and being loved for it
- Age
- 3-7
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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.