Sometimes changing the world doesn’t begin with a grand gesture. Sometimes it begins with one little mermaid who decides to clean up a forgotten cove.
As a mom of five and a very heavy reader, I love children’s books that offer more than a cute story. Luna and the Lost Cove, written and illustrated by Aria Joy Prichard, brings together mermaids, friendship, environmental care, and the courage to begin even when nobody else believes in you.
My Thoughts on Luna and the Lost Cove
Luna sees possibility where others see a neglected cove. Instead of waiting for approval, she gets to work. Even when other mermaids doubt or ridicule her, she keeps going, with her little seahorse friend Lemon beside her.
She simply starts. That’s what stayed with me most. Children—and adults—can spend so much time waiting for the right circumstances or someone else’s approval. Luna reminds us that small actions can create meaningful change.
I also loved the colorful illustrations, the gentle environmental message, and the reminder that one supportive friend can make all the difference.
Behind the Story: My Conversation with Aria Joy Prichard
After reading Luna and the Lost Cove, I wanted to know what inspired Aria to create a mermaid who doesn’t wait for permission to make a difference. She told me that seeing coral bleaching and ocean trash—including white coral while snorkeling in Hawaii—helped inspire the story.
One answer particularly stayed with me. Aria explained that Luna doesn’t change her community by arguing with the other mermaids. She simply starts cleaning, and others eventually recognize the difference her actions make.
Aria also shared that her parents let her paint the walls inside her closet as a child, giving her a space to express her imagination. I loved her reminder that creativity doesn’t require expensive materials—just a pencil and imagination.
And here’s a fun reason to reread the book with your children: Aria revealed that she’s hidden a recurring little animal friend throughout the illustrations. I won’t spoil the hunt!
Want the whole conversation? Aria answered twelve thoughtful questions about the book, bullying, friendship, environmental care, childhood creativity, and future adventures for Luna and Lemon. Read our complete interview in The Interview Room →
My Final Thoughts
What makes Luna and the Lost Cove special to me isn’t simply that it’s a beautiful children’s book. It’s the reminder that children’s ideas matter, that being different isn’t something to be ashamed of, and that the smallest actions can make a difference. Adults need those reminders, too.
A huge thank-you to Aria Joy Prichard for answering my questions, and to Denise Carberry and Justin Loeber of Mouth Digital + Public Relations for coordinating the interview and providing a review copy. Learn more at Mermaid Friends.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary review copy for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Until the next story, keep finding your own kind of magic—and remember, sometimes even a lion knows when to meow. 🦁🐱 If you missed that little lesson in being yourself, read my review of The Lion That Meowed.
Warmly,
Kelly 💜 I’M ME
In My Mom Era
Leave a Reply