2017 by
on Goodreads (112)
What’s inside...
A hungry mouse discovers the alphabet, nibble by nibble, in this playful tale. When the letter M comes upon a hungry little mouse with a delicious-looking cherry, he can't help but ask for a bite. The mouse reluctantly agrees, only for the M to devour the entire thing! In exchange, the M offers the mouse some of itself, but after a few bites the M has suddenly become an N. So begins the mouse's journey through the many letters of the alphabet thanks to some creative nibbling and imaginative illustrations from debut author/illustrator Zebo Ludvicek.
Why read this book
- Vibrant illustrations captivate and stimulate visual development.
- Encourages empathy through Mouse's relatable emotional journey.
- Fosters language skills with playful, engaging dialogue.
- Supports understanding of cause and effect relationships.
The Big Picture
- Encourages problem-solving through relatable mouse character.
- Builds resilience by tackling obstacles courageously.
- Promotes discussions on courage in everyday life.
Diversity & Representation
- Highlights diverse characters fostering inclusivity and understanding.
- Encourages empathy towards various backgrounds and experiences.
- Promotes acceptance and celebration of differences.
Age
3-5
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
intermediate
Character Compass
Discussion points
What do you think Mouse feels when something changes around him? Can you relate to how he felt?
How did Mouse solve his problem? What would you have done in his situation?
What does Mouse’s journey teach us about trying new things?
How do the other characters in the book help Mouse? Who helps you when you face something new?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading: Change your tone and pace when reading Mouse’s different emotions. This helps your child grasp the emotional context of the story.
Relate the story to real life: After reading, discuss a time when your child tried something new and how they felt about it.
Ask predictive questions: Pause at key moments in the story and ask your child what they think might happen next. This builds anticipation and engagement.
Encourage empathy: Discuss how Mouse might be feeling at various points and ask your child if they have ever felt the same way.
What parents love
Perfect balance of fun and morals.
Illustrations are captivating and age-appropriate.
Keeps my child engaged and eager to read.
Handled sensitive themes with care and simplicity.
Key Lessons
Example Lesson: Sharing and Generosity
Explanation: In 'Mouse,' the protagonist learns the value of sharing resources with others, transforming scarcity into abundance through acts of kindness.
Real-World Application: Children can practice sharing toys and food with their peers, fostering a spirit of generosity and community.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving
Explanation: The mouse faces a series of challenges and learns to navigate them creatively. This storyline encourages problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply critical thinking to solve small problems at home or in school, enhancing their decision-making skills.
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: The mouse shows empathy towards its friends, understanding their feelings and perspectives, which helps in strengthening their relationships.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to recognize emotions in others and respond appropriately, improving their social interactions and emotional intelligence.
Example Lesson: The Joy of Adventure
Explanation: The book highlights the excitement and educational value in exploring new experiences, showing how the mouse grows from its adventures.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to try new activities, whether a new sport or a creative pursuit, promoting growth and confidence.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Resilience
Explanation: Despite obstacles, the mouse perseveres and achieves its goals, teaching children the importance of resilience.
Real-World Application: This lesson can inspire children to continue striving in their learning or personal challenges, building a strong character.