About the Book A picture book about a mermaid named Mabel, who unlike the rest of her family does not have a moustache, and the seven-armed octopus who becomes her friend and helps her see that she is just right the way she is-- Book Synopsis A lovely and laugh-out-loud picture book from the award-winning author of Rude Cakes and Most Marshmallows . A silly read-aloud tale for kids about being yourself! Mabel isnt like the other mermaids. Lucky isnt like the other octopuses. But when they find each other, they discover that true friendship isnt about how you look, and that sometimes what we are searching for is right under our noses. The inimitable Rowboat Watkins is back with another humorous tale about being true to yourself. - A delightful, inspiring read-aloud book for toddlers that celebrates gender diversity and difference - Stylish, accessible art brings this story of being true to yourself to hilarious life. - Rowboat Watkins is a 2010 Sendak Fellow and Ezra Jack Keats honoree. Young readers of Julian Is a Mermaid , Mary Wears What She Wants , and Exclamation Mark will find much to love in this tale that celebrates individuality and acceptance. - Read-aloud books for kids age 3-5 - Books for teachers and librarians - Gender, differences, being yourself Rowboat Watkins was a recipient of the 2010 Sendak Fellowship, his book Rude Cakes was an Ezra Jack Keats Honor Book, and the New York Times praised his most recent title, Most Marshmallows , as exquisite. Rowboat lives with his family in Brooklyn, New York. Review Quotes [ Mabel ] is a refreshing story of difference, acceptance, friendship, and self-confidence. A recommended purchase.- School Library Journal [D]eft characterization and detailed world building by Watkins (Most Marshmallows) transcend the formulaic. artful renditions of beautiful sea slugs, undersea corals, and other marine life provide visual fireworks that amplify the storys compassionate message.-- Publishers Weekly, starred review Watkins anchors his congenial fable in friendship and self-acceptance. delightfully illustrated. A treasure worth discovering.-- Booklist [ Mabel ] is a warm story of friendship, with countless rich details in the illustrations: a treasure-strewn ocean floor and fabulously expressive nudibranchs (a kind of sea slug). Watkins prose style is fun to read aloud, clipped and spare. a special book about being special.-- Kirkus Reviews About the Author Rowboat Watkins was a recipient of the 2010 Sendak Fellowship, his book Rude Cakes was an Ezra Jack Keats Honor Book, and the New York Times praised his most recent title, Most Marshmallows , as exquisite. Rowboat lives with his family in Brooklyn, New York.