Reviews

The Tail of Emily Windsnap by Liz Kessler

heddas_bookgems's review against another edition

4.0

Emily has never experienced life on land as she has spent her entire life on a boat without taking a bath or a swim. Her mother finally agrees to let her take swimming lessons, and Emily discovers that she has a natural talent. However, during her first dive, she almost drowns due to a strange cramp in her legs. Emily embarks on a journey to discover her identity and family history, and to uncover the truth behind her mysterious cramps.

Liz Kessler's middle-grade mermaid novel, first published in 2003, has become a childhood favorite for many readers. The book is a charming twist on "The Little Mermaid" tale, filled with humor, mystery, and emotion. Readers are transported to a magical underwater world ruled by Neptunus, where young mermaids and mermen are taught how to sink ships.

The book is a heartwarming story about the power of friendship and acceptance, and the struggles of being a social outcast. It is a well-written, easy read that will make you feel like you're diving into a warm summer ocean. If you're looking for a captivating book with mystery, family love, and the search for new friendships, Emily Windsnap is a must-read.

suzanneu's review against another edition

adventurous emotional inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

daisy_bax_enzo's review against another edition

2.5

It was an okay read for fantasy.  In fantasy you have to use your imagination, this one makes you use it more than usual. Some of it did not make sense and it was over the top on making me believe things that are ridiculous. I had a hard time believing Emily could pull off all she did. Bravery may be the theme, but brave should at least be somewhat believable. This one I had a hard time stretching my imagination on. 

I could end up reading another of the series to see if the series and writing does improve. I will not rush out to get it though.  If you love mermaids, you could give it a try. Just because I thought it was all over the place strange, does not mean you will.  - D 

owls_cats_books's review against another edition

4.0

What an adventure. Emily finds out a lot about herself by taking a swimming lesson. Soon she is torn between two worlds. She handled it with bravery and loyalty.  It was a fun fantasy read and I can't wait to read more of this series. 

I would recommend this to anyone of any age who loves mermaids or a good fantasy middle grade read. 

giro_revuescope's review against another edition

adventurous emotional lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix

4.0

One of those books where I can tell it would have been my entire personality if I read it at the target age 😂

shirarweiss's review against another edition

adventurous hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.5

I adored this book as a child and enjoyed it so much less as an adult. It was very silly and totally sounds like something a child would write. I found myself skipping through the description and looking for dialogue and action. 

winemakerssister's review against another edition

3.0

A cute kid's book about a 12-year-old who discovers she's a mermaid and sets off to find her father, another merperson. It has a nice anti-bullying message.

tattooheart's review against another edition

adventurous

4.0

Imagine finding out you are part mermaid. That's what happened to Emily. This book was full of adventure and fantasy. I would love to swim with mermaids, or find a secret spot in the sea where they live. If you are a mermaid fan, this book is for you. 

bookfairy45's review

adventurous emotional hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

The book is about young girl named Emily. She finds out she's a mermaid. Emily makes a friend Shona. With Shona's help they uncover some facts, that leads Emily to her dad. What will happen? Will the family get a happily ever after? Read to find out what happens! I will read more in the series.

mcnemesis's review against another edition

funny fast-paced

3.0