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Mermaid

Written by Grant M. (Grant Martin) Overton

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FoundlingsLong Island (N.Y.)

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About this book

"Mermaid" by Grant M. Overton is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story revolves around a young girl named Mermaid, who is rescued after surviving the wreck of the ship "Mermaid" and adopted by a Coast Guard captain, John Smiley. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, family dynamics, and the complexities of nurturing a child in a rough and rugged environment. At the start of the novel, the reader is introduced to Keturah Smiley, Cap’n John’s sister, who has a contentious relationship with him. Their dialogue reveals a backstory filled with tension, jealousy, and a hint of familial love, particularly regarding the mysterious disappearance of John's wife and child. The young girl, Mermaid, is being cared for by the men at the Coast Guard station after being saved from the wreck. As the Coast Guard crew begins to bond with her, the novel hints at deeper adventures and conflicts that will unfold as they navigate their new roles and relationships, setting the stage for both heartfelt moments and impending challenges.

Reading guide

Themes, characters and key ideas in Mermaid, written by Chaptra AI.

  • about 8 hours
  • intermediate
  • poignant
  • mysterious
  • heartwarming

Grant M. Overton's "Mermaid" is an early 20th-century novel centered on a mysterious foundling girl, also named Mermaid, who is rescued from a shipwreck and adopted by the stoic Coast Guard captain, John Smiley. The narrative delves into the complexities of forming a new family amidst the rugged environment of a Coast Guard station, exploring the nascent bond between Mermaid and her new guardian, as well as the crew. Underlying this new beginning are unresolved familial tensions, particularly between Cap'n John and his sister Keturah, whose contentious relationship hints at a past tragedy involving John's missing wife and child. The story promises a blend of heartfelt moments, the challenges of unconventional parenting, and the unfolding of deeper mysteries and conflicts.

“"A child, you say? In this house, Keturah, where ghosts still walk?"”

Key themes

Found Family and Belonging
The central theme revolves around the unexpected formation of a family unit through adoption and shared circumstances, rather than blood. Mermaid, an orphan, finds a home and belonging with Cap'n John and the Coast Guard crew, challenging traditional definitions of family.
Love, Loss, and Grief
The novel deeply explores the enduring impact of loss and the redemptive power of love. Cap'n John carries the profound grief of losing his wife and child, which has made him emotionally distant. Mermaid's arrival offers him a chance to heal and experience love again, highlighting the cyclical nature of loss and renewal.
Resilience and Survival
The theme of resilience is embodied by Mermaid herself, who survives a shipwreck against all odds. It extends to the characters' ability to adapt to harsh environments and overcome personal hardships. The Coast Guard setting further emphasizes human perseverance in the face of natural forces.

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