The loot proves irresistible, but the sisters soon realize it won’t be an easy task to open the chest; after several attempts, Lexa gives up, while Livi vows to unseal the treasure at any cost (and calls Lexa a “seapooper” for losing interest). The girls eventually call in the help of several sea-dwelling friends, including familiar faces from the first in the series. Soon, it’s all hands on deck as the group works to crack open the chest: seacorn Aria tries tickling it with a pirate’s feather, and when that doesn’t work, Sparkles the dolphin insists a pirate polka will do the trick. That’s delightful, of course, but after their attempts fail, Livi, true to form, still refuses to give up, suggesting the friends band together to try their ideas all at the same time—a breakthrough that will please readers.
De Zoysa’s luminous illustrations are splashtastic themselves, evoking an ocean teeming with life; whether it’s the sisters’ iridescent mermaid tails, flashy fish swarming around the ship’s wreckage, or the treasure in all its glittering glory, younger readers will find a torrent of eye-catching visuals in this cheerful tale. Ultimately, the friends’ decision to work together pays off: Livi finally gets her treasure, and, as a thank you to her friends for their help, everyone gets their own piece. Dunsche includes a treasure-themed maze for younger readers at the end.
Takeaway: Mermaid sisters rely on their friends’ help to uncover shipwrecked treasure.
Comparable Titles: Kim Ann’s Where Do Mermaids Go on Vacation?, Rachel Bright’s The Squirrels Who Squabbled.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: A
Editing: A-
Marketing copy: A
I enjoyed this sequel to the Shell of Magic. The themes of working together and not giving up feel important lessons for children. The bright, cheerful illustrations and fun humor make this story a pleasure to read.
My granddaughters enjoyed Brave Mermaids Shell of Magic so much that they were eagerly expecting this sequel. It was just as entertaining as the first book and I love the lessons being taught about working together to solve problems.
This is a sweet story about a mermaid who persevered and found a way to get what she wanted. It includes teamwork which is a very important aspect of success and the illustrations are very bright and colorful. Very nice.
In Maria Mandel Dunsche’s newest mermaid picture book, Livi and Lexa are on another adventure. They find a shipwreck and a treasure chest but don’t know how to open it. With the help of friends, they explore solutions and options. The story themes of perseverance, problem-solving, patience, and determination are presented in delightful and engaging ways for young kids to understand. Livi and Lexa’s story illustrates the power of sibling relationships and true friendships with characters different from themselves. I like the portrayal of cooperation, brainstorming, and sharing. Kids will enjoy this puzzle-solving adventure under the sea.
My little ones swam with delight alongside Lexa and Livi in this charming tale of friendship and perseverance. The story's central mystery - what lies within the sunken treasure chest? - had them hooked, while the mermaids' various attempts to open it sparked giggles and creative problem-solving discussions. The message of Livi's unwavering determination resonated well, reminding them that even when things get tough, teamwork and a never-give-up spirit can lead to unexpected rewards.
Maria Mandel Dunsche's Brave Mermaids: The Treasure presents the inspiring narrative of Livi and her older sister Lexa, two great young mermaids who set off on a quest to discover a magnificent shipwreck. While exploring the area, the adorable duo comes across a mysterious, shiny treasure chest; what will its contents reveal? After repeated attempts to open it, Lexa is ready to give up, but Livi refuses. Will her determination be sufficient to open the chest, or will a sea unicorn, an octopus, a sea pup, and a dolphin intervene? Pick up the new Brave Mermaids picture book and follow the sisters on their daring trip into the deep ocean. Brave Mermaids: The Treasure immerses young readers in Livi, Lexa, and their interested companions' quest to open the gleaming chest in the shipwreck. I loved the design of each character, as well as their unique suggestions for opening the chest; it was so much fun! The variety of individuals is also worth noting because everyone looks so different but has such a strong bond. I particularly admired Livi's perseverance in not giving up! This story features charming, lovely characters, and Livi, in addition to the foregoing, has remarkable tenacity and willpower. Maria Mandel Dunsche has created a distinctive role model for all young readers while also telling a captivating story. I enjoyed the vivid designs on each page that help to keep readers interested in each moment! I would strongly recommend this book to youngsters who want to learn about generosity and perseverance.
In this children's book mermaids solve problems in cooperative fashion with friends. Colorful illustrations and well-written dialog. Engaging story line. Love it! Perfect for kids who love adventure, mermaids, and treasure.
This tale is brimming with captivating sea creatures, adorned in vibrant hues that easily capture a child's interest. It imparts valuable lessons on perseverance and sharing, making it an ideal choice for both home and school reading. I highly recommend sharing this enchanting book with your child.
Author Maria Mandel Dunsche has unveiled the second installment in her empowering series for young readers, "Brave Mermaids: The Treasure." Following the success of her debut, "Brave Mermaids: Shell of Magic," this new release continues the captivating adventures of mermaid sisters Lexa and Livi.
"Brave Mermaids: The Treasure" takes readers back to the enchanting world introduced in the first book, with newfound discoveries and challenges. With her eloquent storytelling and vivid imagination, Maria Mandel Dunsche once again invites readers into a world where determination and teamwork triumph.
In this installment, Lexa and Livi, the mermaid sisters, are excited to find a magnificent old shipwreck in the ocean. But what's even more fascinating is that they discover a treasure chest inside it! They try unusual ways to open the chest, but nothing seems to work. Lexa thinks of giving up, but Livi is determined to open it no matter what! Will her perseverance win in the end? What will they find inside the treasure chest?
Maria Mandel Dunsche, a dedicated mom and advocate for empowering young girls, has made it her mission to inspire and uplift through her charming picture books. The Brave Mermaids series serves as a testament to her commitment to instilling confidence and resilience in the hearts of young readers.
"Through the adventures of these mermaids, I aim to encourage girls to believe in their inner strength and never give up!" Maria Mandel Dunsche said.
"Brave Mermaids: The Treasure" is available at leading bookstores nationwide and select independent and online retailers -- including Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Walmart.
During the first month of the book launch, the author will donate 10 percent of all sales to Oceana at https://oceana.org/.
For more information about Maria Mandel Dunsche and her latest release, please visit bravemermaids.com.
About Maria Mandel Dunsche
Maria Mandel Dunsche has seamlessly merged her award-winning marketing career with a passion for storytelling in her Brave Mermaids children's book series. Her mission is to inspire young girls to be brave and resilient.
Dunsche's stories entertain and carry meaningful messages, encouraging young readers to discover their inner strength and face challenges with determination. She is known for her captivating storytelling and dedication to empowering young girls. Dunsche is a devoted mother of two girls and an accomplished marketing executive. She lives in Brooklyn, New York.
