Lonely mermaid

Written and illustrated by: Hannamari Ruohonen
Language: Finnish
Release date: January 2026
ISBN: 978-952-7581-179
Number of pages: 32 pages
Size: 23 x 23 cm
Age recommendation: 3+

The sea has become familiar to the Little Mermaid – perhaps too familiar. Every single shell has been seen, and the longing for something new grows. A bold leap takes her beneath the waves to a completely different world: dry land. But how can she cope when her tail can't carry her and there's a strange, busy world around her?

Luckily, the Mermaid meets Granny, who lives in a small cottage far from the rest of the world. The two lonely people find each other, and from that encounter begins a warm and wonderful transformation. Through gentleness and care, the Mermaid gets her feet back on the ground – and the chance for a new beginning.

Hannamari Ruohonen's beautifully illustrated story draws from HC Andersen's classic fairy tale and builds its own, contemporary narrative. The colors of the sea and land glow, and the story speaks to both children and adults.

The book is a touching story of friendship, courage, and hope. It reminds us that life can take us in unexpected directions – and that venturing out on new paths can open up something good and meaningful.