The Mermaid of Zennor by Charles Causley and Michael Foreman (Orchard Books)

We couldn't resist this book. As soon as we saw the cover I knew it'd be coming home with us. We both love mermaids so a story that taps into traditional Cornish tales about "Merrymaids" was too good to miss.

"The Mermaid of Zennor" tells us the story of a young boy and his best friend. They always attend church every sunday, but a mysterious woman who sits at the back of the church catches their eye, and changes their lives forever.

Steeped in local history, both Charles and Michael have produced a tale that feels instantly like something that has been passed down from generation to generation as the older boy runs off to sea with his newly found love - but the two boys paths cross again later on in life.

We're trying not to give away too much because you really should discover the story for yourself. Suffice to say that if we're ever anywhere near Zennor, we'll be dropping into the little church mentioned in the book to see if there really is a chair with a "Merrymaid" carved on it tucked away at the back.

Charlotte's best bit: The lovely Merrymaid babies, all 7 of them!

Daddy's Favourite bit: A charming and instantly accessible story that feels traditional and ancient, but is still a gorgeous story to tell out loud to your little merrymaids and merrymen!