Dickens & Rumi
Cover of THE LITTLE MERMAID: AGAINST THE TIDE

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THE LITTLE MERMAID: AGAINST THE TIDE

J. Elle

Ariel and her siblings must find their abducted sister, Mala, before the Coral Moon approaches. (Ages 12 to 18)

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At a glance

Recommended ageNot listed

Strongest cautions

  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Violence3/5
  • Products & advertising2/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Good role models4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising2/5
Why this rating?

Part of an existing commercial franchise, but the story is self-contained.

Death of a character1/5
Why this rating?

The stakes involve potential loss of life, but there is minimal central character death.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Mild language consistent with the YA genre.

Romance2/5
Why this rating?

Contains mild romantic tension, consistent with young adult fantasy.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Includes tense situations and ominous fantasy creatures, but is not intentionally frightening.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Features fantasy combat, tension, and scenes of magical threats, but lacks graphic detail.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Main character frequently exhibits bravery in the face of political and physical danger.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Reimagines familiar lore with inventive political and environmental stakes.

Diverse representation2/5
Why this rating?

Features a diverse cast typical of modern adaptations, focusing on inclusive characterization.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Encourages critical thinking regarding leadership and politics in an allegorical way.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Shows importance of empathy and bridging divides.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Emphasizes leadership, truth, justice, and challenging unfair status quos.

Good role models4/5
Why this rating?

Ariel acts as a proactive, courageous, and questioning protagonist.

Family discussion

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Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. Which moment felt most tense or frightening? What helped the characters handle fear?
  3. Which choice in THE LITTLE MERMAID: AGAINST THE TIDE would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in THE LITTLE MERMAID: AGAINST THE TIDE, and what caused that change?
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