Word of Mouse
#1 of 2 in Word of Mouse Series
What’s inside...
A very special mouse named Isaiah, with fur as blue as the sky, escapes from a mysterious laboratory in search of his missing family. After being separated from his 'mischief' or mouse family, Isaiah must navigate the dangerous outdoors while avoiding threats from cats, owls, and humans. Along the way, he forms an unlikely friendship with a lonely human girl named Hailey, and together they learn that true friendship can overcome any obstacle. This charming story of survival, determination, and the power of friendship is a Parents' Choice Award® winner.
Discussion points
How do you think Isaiah, the mouse, felt when he was different from his siblings? Have you ever felt different and how did you handle it?
Isaiah makes many friends who are different from him. Why do you think it's important to accept and celebrate differences in others?
What qualities make Isaiah a good friend? Which of those qualities do you think are important in your friendships?
Isaiah faces many challenges throughout the book. Can you think of a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it?
The theme of courage is prominent in 'Word of Mouse'. What does courage mean to you, and how can you show courage in your own life?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate their own experiences to Isaiah's adventures and feelings, fostering deeper personal connections with the story.
Discuss the importance of diversity and acceptance, using characters from the book as examples to illustrate these complex concepts.
Use Isaiah’s character traits to spark a conversation about friendship qualities and ask your child what they value in their friends.
Highlight Isaiah's problem-solving strategies to help your child think about how they tackle their own challenges.
Connect discussions of courage with everyday acts of bravery, helping your child see how they can be courageous in their own life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: Isaiah, the mouse protagonist, demonstrates bravery as he navigates a world full of challenges and dangers after escaping from a laboratory.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of facing their fears and standing up in difficult situations, whether it's trying out for a sports team or speaking up in class.
Example Lesson: The value of friendship
Explanation: Throughout his journey, Isaiah forms friendships that provide support and help him overcome obstacles. These relationships highlight the importance of teamwork and trust.
Real-World Application: This lesson underscores the significance of building and maintaining friendships in a child’s life, helping them understand the role of cooperation and emotional support among peers.
Example Lesson: Acceptance of differences
Explanation: Isaiah, being a blue mouse, is different from other mice. The story promotes the acceptance of differences in others through Isaiah's interactions and the alliances he forms.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to embrace diversity in others, learning to respect and celebrate what makes each person unique.
Example Lesson: Perseverance leads to success
Explanation: Despite numerous setbacks, Isaiah’s determination never wavers. His perseverance is a key factor in his ultimate success and freedom.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of persistence in achieving goals, whether in academics, hobbies, or personal pursuits.
Example Lesson: Innovation and using one’s unique talents
Explanation: Isaiah's intelligence and ability to read and write help him in many situations. His unique abilities are celebrated and utilized to make impactful changes.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of recognizing their own unique skills and using them creatively to solve problems and make positive contributions.