The topic of mermaids has been an enigma for thousands of years.  The premise of this book is to explain these sightings using the scientific method.  Multiple stories are reported including dates, places, and names of the observer.  Speculations include everything from alien or supernatural events to weather to intentional pranks.  The scientific method is explained but not efficiently used.  A final page, “Summing Up the Science” lists a few hypotheses however there is no test or scientific evidence (fossils, for example) that can substantiate the supposition.  Many illustrations, photographs, reproductions, and maps supplement the text.  A timeline of reported sightings or descriptions is included.  The reader is essentially left with interesting tales with which they can choose to believe or not.  Nothing is actually solved with science.