ZANDI'S SONG

South Africa’s first Black female free-diving instructor tells the story of a Black South African girl called to the ocean to become a mermaid.

“Your life is here.” “This is your home.” Whispers rush past Zandi’s window. At first, she’s scared, since she’s not a strong swimmer, but the ocean, personified as an aqua-blue deity named Maya, promises her no harm. Maya gives Zandi the gift of glittering mermaid fins to help her swim and a beaded bracelet to remind her of her heritage and allow her to return home. Zandi’s short Afro transforms into long flowing blue braids that evoke the memory of women in her family. Maya reminds Zandi of her grandmother’s warning not to throw garbage into the river. Maya has chosen Zandi to help protect the water and gives her a tour of the sea and its wonders. She tells Zandi that she must learn to understand the song of the ocean, shows her the impacts of pollution on the sea, and teaches her about the historical relationship between her people and the whales. Zandi returns home with a new song to spread throughout her community. Vibrant illustrations use color nicely. A close-up of Zandi’s bare feet in the sparkling blue water contrasts effectively with muted scenes depicting the effects of pollution. The encouraging text will empower many children to care for the environment.

A stirring celebration of our connection to—and responsibility for—the natural world.