The Clamshell Show, by Lucy Courtenay | Book Review

Book Review of The Clamshell Show
The Children’s Book Review

Written by Lucy Courtenay

Illustrated by Sheena Dempsey

Ages 6-9 | 128 Pages

Publisher: Harry N. Abrams | ISBN: 978-1419745201

What to expect: Mermaids, school drama, friendship

Mermaids, school drama, and an upcoming concert that could make or break a young mermaid’s future singing career? This swimmingly fun tail is perfect for any kid who loves the ocean and fin-tastic mermaids!

Marnie Blue is navigating the dicey waters at Lady Sealia Foam’s Mermaid School. After a rough start, Marnie and her friend Pearl have become friends with beautiful and talented (and sometimes cranky) Orla. Everything is going fine in their friend group until Marnie and Orla realize they are both going to audition for the same role in the upcoming school musical production. Can they remain friends while both auditioning for the part that they each know they were born to play? And what will happen when a human finds his way into their midst?

Friendship is hard, and Marnie Blue swims straight to what she wants. Does she want the part in the play? Of course! She’s confident and knows she could nail the role. Even when her friend wants the part too, she tries to be respectful and let them each audition fairly for the role. Indeed, it doesn’t play out so easily, but Marnie is a stand-up kid (mer-person!) who fights for what she wants while still maintaining her values. In the words of a 7-year-old reader, “I like Marnie because she’s nice and brave and stands up to Orla.”

The story is fun and totally entertaining, and even the adults will be wondering what will happen with the human/mermaid love affair of one of the characters. The illustrations help draw young readers in and elevate the story to a complete entertainment experience.            

The Clamshell Show is a wonderful second book in the exciting Mermaid School series. We can’t wait for the next one!

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About the Author

Lucy Courtenay has worked on a number of series for young readers, as well as books for young adults. When not writing, she enjoys singing, reading, and traveling. She lives in Farnham, England, with her husband, her two sons, and a cat named Crumbles.

About the Illustrator

Sheena Dempsey is a children’s book illustrator and author from Cork, Ireland, who was shortlisted for the Sainsbury’s Book Award. She lives in London with her partner, Mick, and her retired racing greyhound, Sandy.

The Clamshell Show, written by Lucy Courtenay, was reviewed by Denise Mealy. Discover more books like The Clamshell Show by following along with our reviews and articles tagged with Mermaids and Friendship.