Mermaids Dive Into Action!

“We wish to become mermaids!” says Sara, Alix and Lucy as they stand in front of the wishing fountain at their favorite ice cream shop. That is where the first spark of inspiration ignited this Hampton Bays mom to write a children’s book about beloved mermaids and their quest to rid their underwater home of pollution.

The Fin-Tastic Cleanup, by Laura Mancuso and illustrated by Jenna Guidi, was just recently released in May 2021. It is a tale about three mermaids, named Sara, Alix and Lucy who are confronted with pollution in their quaint coral village. They did not want the litter harming their home and friends anymore, so they dive into action. This story is full of beautiful illustrations that tackles the problem of water pollution, but allows readers to be immersed in the magical mermaid world. This book is perfect for children ages two to ten, but has been known to dazzle some adults, as well. At the end of the book, the author, listed the 10 most common things found in the ocean and tallied. Along with these facts, she listed organizations found nationally and locally to contribute to as a volunteer or donate to.

Living in a beautiful beachfront town, like many of the towns of Long Island, we all spend so much time enjoying our precious water. However, there is nothing more saddening then seeing waste wash up on these shorelines and hearing about the marine animals that are hurt or worse, killed by pollution. Bringing some awareness to our waters and tying in the imaginary world of mermaids seemed like the perfect combination to inspire the next generation. Maybe even inspire the grown-ups who share the story with these little beach lovers. This was the main goal for both, Laura Mancuso and Jenna Guidi. The St. James natives grew up right near the shores of the L.I. Sound and have always had respect and love for nature and our waters. It is essential to our well-being as humans.

The Fin-Tastic Cleanup has been endorsed by the New York Marine Rescue Center and the Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County. The Fin-Tastic Cleanup is the latest recipient of a Gold Level Mom’s Choice Award and was named a 2021 Book of the Year by Creative Child Magazine Awards in the category of Environmental Books.

Both Author and Illustrator, will be at Shock Kids and Ice Cream in Westhampton on July 28th at 6:30 PM. Again, both, Laura Mancuso and Jenna Guidi will be at the Book Revue in Huntington on August 10th at 7pm. Take a moment and share this story with your little one that loves the sea. The Fin-Tastic Cleanup is available online everywhere books are sold. You can also find it in many local bookstores and shops, as well. Happy Reading!