Reading Metrics
Description
When an attempt to steal Shirley, a rare sea-unicorn, results in the sinking of their houseboat, ten-year-old Thora, her mermaid mother, and Mr. Walters stay at the estate of old friends and find a solution to the friends' financial troubles. Book #2
Quick Summary
"Thora and the Green Sea-Unicorn" has this wonderful mix of underwater adventure and family problem-solving that makes it hard to put down. The relationship between Thora, her mermaid mom, and the gruff Mr. Walters feels real and often hilarious especially when they're suddenly living at their wealthy friends' estate after their houseboat sinks during a heist gone wrong. Kids who love stories with magical creatures, ocean settings, or found-family dynamics will find plenty to love here, and the mystery of protecting the rare green sea-unicorn Shirley adds just the right amount of tension. There's some genuinely scary moments when the boat sinks and the thieves show up, but it's balanced with humor and heart. It's perfect for readers who enjoyed "The Tale of Despereaux" or any story where ordinary kids end up in extraordinary situations and have to step up. Parents will appreciate that the book emphasizes cleverness over violence and that Thora's solution to her friends' money problems involves creativity rather than anything problematic.