School Library Journal Review
Gr 1-4-- From West Africa via the Caribbean to the Sea Islands off South Carolina's coast come the story fragments melded in this unusual, haunting tale. San Souci's eloquent prose, matched by Pinkney's handsome illustrations executed in scratchboard and oil pastel, tells the tale of a black girl's special relationship with a benevolent mermaid. As the arresting cover illustration suggests, Mama Jo is no ordinary water spirit. This fabulous creature, with opulent jewelry and golden combs in her sea-green hair, offers Sukey more than a gold coin at day's end. The time spent in the sea with the mermaid provides respite from the hardships of life with her mother and shiftless stepfather. Although the Cinderella theme is most apparent, there are references to many others. What provides this book with depth and richness, however, is the smooth transition from the mermaid's magical kingdom to the harsh reality of the girl's life on land. Sukey is a likable heroine, determined, clever, and compassionate. This is a realistic coming-of-age story, combined with fantasy. With current interest in and the demand for multicultural materials, this tale is a welcome addition to any folklore collection. --Martha Rosen, Edgewood School, Scarsdale, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.