Nen and the Lonely Fisherman

Merman Nen loves to explore the mysterious depths of the ocean, but his heart feels empty. Each night, he sings to the sea and his words of hope are carried across the waves by the twinkling stars.

On shore lives a lonely fishman called Ernest, who also feels that something is missing from his life. When one night he hears Nen’s song, he sets off in his rickety boat to discover the source of the magical voice, and the pair strike up an affectionate relationship.

Nen’s father Pelagios warns his son to stay away from the world above, as humans are damaging the oceans. However, Nen knows that there is something special about Ernest, who is kind, gentle and considerate, and the pair continue to meet each night, to talk, laugh and dream. Angry that his son refuses to heed his warnings, Pelagios unleashes a terrible storm, which places Ernest in grave danger.

Lyrical text accompanies the atmospheric illustrations, from stunning endpapers to full-length vertical artwork, which evokes a sense of the deep, dark ocean. Full-page illustrations combine with small vignettes, creating pace and beautifully guiding the reader through this tender tale of love and acceptance.