Sophia R Tyler

There is so much about this book, which is simply to love.

Mouse has issues making it to work, since he lives so far away, and might loose his job. At work, his boss complains about his own troubles. Not sure what to do about any of it, Mouse says a little prayer and decides, at least, to help his boss. When the boss sees a suddenly, very clean office, he's extremely thankful and gives Mouse a car in return. Now, Mouse can make it to work, but under way, he notices that a bird could use his help. And so the kindness continues.

First off, the entire message won me over, since it's one that our world definitely could hear much more often. Mouse might have problems, but instead of sitting on his own, he reaches out and still offers whatever help he can with no expectations of a thank-you or return of the favor. Kindness and selflessness take a front seat and drive this tale forward from beginning to end.

Then, there's the mouse. So cute! He works in a Cheese Factory...I mean, how neat is that even if it sounds cliche? Sometimes cliches are awesome. And he has problems that even the adult reader can relate to (rushing to work...tired when there). The illustrations do a very good job at bringing the scenes and world across with all of its imagination and details. Young readers can take the book and follow these on their own, and know exactly what is happening.

Lastly, I appreciate how subtly the religious aspect is woven in. It is not at the forefront of the tale, and yet, it holds an important pivotal point. Many readers are religious (whatever their faith may be), and this allows that aspect to flow right in naturally without shoving it in the face...more like reality.

One more lastly: As if all of this wasn't enough, there is a list in the back of objects young readers/listeners can go back and find in the illustrations, and there are a few ideas to lead to discussions and thought.

It was a treat to read, and I do hope that more books like this are on their way. I received an ARC (although I took a bit longer to get to it) and am adding this book to my favorite reads for 2022.… (mehr)