* The mysterious arrival and unusual circumstances of her birth: Emily's mysterious origins and the secrecy surrounding her birth immediately hint at something extraordinary about her. This foreshadows her eventual discovery of her mermaid heritage.
* Her unusual affinity for water and discomfort on land: Emily's strong connection to the sea and her awkwardness on land are clear indications of her true nature. She displays these traits from a young age, gradually revealing more than she, or those around her, understand.
* The recurring symbolism of the sea: The sea itself is a constant presence, symbolizing both danger and freedom, mirroring Emily's journey to accept her dual nature. The sea's unpredictable nature foreshadows the challenges she faces.
* Shona's warnings and hints: Shona, with her cryptic remarks and sea-related knowledge, subtly foreshadows Emily's destiny. While she doesn't explicitly state it, her actions and words act as clues.
* The reactions of other characters: The reactions of some characters, particularly those who know the truth or suspect something unusual about Emily (like Mrs. Thistlewick), foreshadow her eventual reveal.
* The appearance of the mermaid tails and other magical elements: Although the mermaid tails are not initially presented as a major element, their presence in the story, like the occasional glimpse of something beyond the ordinary (e.g., strange underwater sounds), gradually build towards the eventual confirmation of Emily's mermaid heritage.
The foreshadowing in *The Tale of Emily Windsnap* is subtle and unfolds gradually, creating a sense of mystery and building suspense as Emily discovers the truth about herself. It enhances the reader's experience by making the eventual revelations more satisfying.