The Mermaid's Purse

“Once again, Polacco brings forth a new family story, this time about her grandmother. . . . Polacco’s signature textual and illustrative styles blend to depict a folksy, bygone past. The pencil-and-marker artwork lovingly evokes the poignant memory, making this one of her most personal-feeling books. Three photos of her grandmother on the back page add backbone to the tale. Heartwarming.”—Kirkus Reviews

“Through lyrical writing and expressive images, Polacco returns to recurring themes from her books: the importance of family, community, and reading. Polacco again draws on her family history—basing her heroine, Estella, on her own grandmother—while also giving this down-home tale a mystical undertone. . . . The community again unites to bring about a satisfying finale. . . . Robust pencil-and-marker illustrations bridge the narrative’s fluctuating moods, portraying Estella’s triumph and heartbreak with assurance.”—Publishers Weekly

“This is the type of family tale that the author/illustrator is known for. The story is lovely, with the message that books can teach anyone about everything. The title also features pictures and tidbits about the real Stella’s life after the narrative is over, which is a nice touch. A terrific library read-aloud that is also suitable for one-on-one and small group sharing.”—School Library Journal