Little Mouse Gets Ready (Toon Books Level 1)

Smith's (the Bone series) crisply drafted style smoothly fuses graphic novel and picture book. Excited about Mama's invitation to go to the barn (If we're "good", Mama will let us swim in the cow's water!), Little Mouse hurries to get ready to join his family. Every step of the getting dressed routine is closely examined (Underpants are "easy" to put on... says Little Mouse, wriggling into a tiny pair of briefs. Just be sure to get your tail in the tail hole!). He masters the technical problems of snaps and buttons, then discovers that in his excitement he's forgotten a vital fact: mice "don't" wear clothes! his mother reminds him. He's so shocked that his clothing bursts off him like fireworks. When he's unclothed, Little Mouse huddles like a furry creature, and when he's clothed, he stands on his own two feeta useful visual metaphor for the oscillating feelings of independence younger children experience. The hero is an arresting blend of cute and tough, and his evident glee and determination will bolster the confidence of those who "do" have to wear clothing. Ages 4up. "(Sept.)" Copyright 2009 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.

PreS-Gr 1Little Mouse is eager to go to the barn with his mother. He slowly and methodically gets dressed, which is quite an accomplishment for the little guy, only to be reminded, in classic noodlehead fashion, that mice dont wear clothes. Kids will love the idea that there were teeny tiny unnecessary clothes ready for him to put on, and that he forgets all the way through his struggles. The cartoon illustrations are large and uncomplicated without being babyish, and the punch line is preceded with places for knowing giggles. "Sarah Provence, Churchill Road Elementary School, McLean, VA" Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.