3.75 stars

Ok, this book was beautiful and the message throughout was a wonderful one, but having read Christina Henry's Alice duology I was expecting something much darker. This book is beautiful and shows an outsiders perspective on humanity which is always incredibly interesting an enlightening. I found some beautiful and thoughtful quotes in this book that really express some of the things I have always felt but never knew how to put into words.

Beautiful writing and a charming story.

☆☆☆☆/☆ #MERMAID

Amelia's Story P.T. Barnum's "Figi Mermaid"

P. T. Barnum was looking for marvelous attractions for his American Museum, and he'd heard a rumor of a mermaid who lived on a cliff by the sea. He wanted to make his fortune, and an attraction like Amelia was just the ticket.

Amelia agreed to play the mermaid for Barnum, and she believes she can leave any time she likes. But Barnum has never given up a money-making scheme in his life, and he's determined to hold on to his mermaid.

I thought this had a great start, the middle dragged on a little bit and I was a little unsatisfied by the ending. I wished that it was darker. But this didn't dampened my enjoyment too much, it's a nice wee quick read.

This was beautiful and heartbreaking all wrapped into one.
I adore Christina Henry’s writing

Not a bad book. Quick read. Had me at “mermaid.” Nothing demonstrates how terrible people are like introducing a foreign character. Story felt surface level and predictable. But had some emotional connection the main characters.

A lovely retelling of a classic fairy tale, featuring the historical figure PT Barnum.

This novel was enchanting and compelling, providing a great mix of familiarity and unique twists that is perfect for a story based on a fairy tale. I loved the characterisation and relationship dynamics that twist and turn as the novel develops - in particular, how Henry's mermaid stands out from the expected cliché. There is little focus on the particulars of the rest of the mermaid world, or the magic involved; instead, the book explores society's relationship with something new and 'unnatural'. Easy to read and short in length, it is a perfect stand-alone novel. I will definitely be seeking out more by Christina Henry.

3.5/5 stars

The start of The Mermaid by Christina Henry is a magical fairy tale. The remainder of the book changes into a conversation about human beliefs and actions in the names of those beliefs. It also introduces a new love story which I find to not really developed and not necessary. I have greater appreciation for Amelia finding her own way in the world. An interesting premise, a magical beginning, and a story that for me does not find its way back to that magic.

Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2018/08/the-mermaid.html

Reviewed for Penguin First to Read program.

3.5

A fascinating story about a mermaid who returns to the man who caught and set her free. She learns she has the ability to turn into a human by touching dry land. The story follows her from there, and how P.T. Barnum in NYC wants to display her for the world to see in his museum.

This is my second time reading the book, having first read it in 2019. I might actually have a different cover version, since I got my copy from a Waterstone’s in the UK.

All in all, a great book. Set in mid-19th century, the story blends history and fantasy well, without it feeling too unbelievable. Amelia is a great protagonist who feels like a (pun intended) fish out of water, as she stands out in many ways with her agency and her conflict over what she wants. She has agency, which is great.

Won’t say too much else. Though I realized that Henry employs a weird thing where characters will converse, and then it’ll be broken up by some description of something, and back to dialogue. It feels weird and it breaks the flow.

I would’ve liked more world building too. Not of 19th century New York, but of the mermaid world that Amelia hails from. And her adapting to life on land. I wanted to see more of that.

Regardless, still a good read.