Mariana and the Merchild

An old lady name Mariana lives alone in a hut by the sea. Although she longs to befriend them, the village children run from her. One day, after a terrible storm, Mariana finds a crab in a rock pool which she takes home. Inside, she finds a beautiful merchild and instantly loves her. The village wise woman gives advice for how to care for the child, and Mariana follows this, waiting for the Sea Spirit, the child's mother, to claim her baby.

However, the Sea Spirit asks Mariana to care for her child until the little one can join her in the sea. As time passes, the merchild grows, becoming friends with the village children, who, in turn, come to care for Mariana. When the merchild does return to the sea, her mother, Mariana, is heartbroken, but she is repaid for her kindness.

A folk tale from Chile, Mariana and the Merchild has been beautifully retold by Caroline Pitcher. Richly descriptive, evocative language make the tale a joy to read aloud, echoing the oral storytelling skills of those who would originally have shared the story. Lonely Mariana is rewarded for her kindness to the merchild both in a supply of riches from the sea, but also in the care and companionship of the village children who have come to see her very differently since the merchild came.

The story offers much to talk about and reflect upon. Jackie Morris's illustrations complement the story perfectly. Some pages are edged with patterns reminiscent of those found on woven fabrics from Chile and the opening papers and end papers frame the story beautifully. Both story and illustrations offer plenty of scope for teachers looking for a text to inspire work in the classroom. 

32 pages / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+