Mermaid's Gift, The - Tapa dura

In this story set long ago on the tiny Venetian island of Burano, something magical happens that changes the course of an entire village. When a frigid winter keeps fishermen from their trade, families go to sleep hungry. Gianni, a lone fisherman, ventures into the stormy seas buoyed by the prayers of his fiancée, Nicoletta. A giant wave sweeps Gianni into the freezing water and all hope seems lost, until he is rescued by a beautiful mermaid and given a gift that saves his village. The legend of the origin of Burano lace is gorgeously retold in this timeless tale. To this day, traditional Burano lace pays homage to the mermaid's gift, and an author's note recounts its lore and history.

Claudia Cangilla McAdam is the author of more than sixteen books for children and young adults, and her writing has been published in outlets including Cricket magazine, Highlights for Children, Scholastic, and 'Teen. Her works have been honored in the Colorado Book Awards and the Colorado Author's League Awards, and she has won the Highlights for Children national fiction contest.

Prolific illustrator Traci Van Wagoner has always loved fairy tales and magic. A longtime member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators, Van Wagoner's work has appeared in books, magazines, newsletters, and on games, toys, and giftware products. She is also an accomplished portraiture artist and a writer and product developer. Her motto is live, laugh, and learn.