A sweet, spirited charmer through and through.
In Chapman’s latest installment in the Grumpy the Iguana and Green Parrot Adventures series, a lonely little mouse discovers that family, courage, and kindness can make even the biggest fears feel smaller. Little Mouse fears the Big Black Cat and hates feeling alone. When Grumpy, the Green Parrot, and Mr. Squirrel welcome him into their family, they give him a treasured Wish Box filled with activities to share. But one wish challenges Little Mouse to face his fears and discover just how brave he can be.
Chapman builds the story around an appealingly vulnerable hero whose desire for belonging gives his worries emotional weight. The Wish Box is an especially effective device, turning family connection into child-friendly experiences: meals, art, songs, picnics, hugs, and learning something new. Natalia Loseva’s bright, expressive illustrations amplify Little Mouse’s shifting emotions. The series of wishes lends itself nicely to read-aloud participation and invites children to imagine wishes of their own. Especially affecting is the book’s understanding of courage as something nurtured through love and support. A natural fit for libraries, classrooms, and families seeking reassuring stories about belonging, empathy, and building courage.
Pure feel-good fun with heart to match.
***
Gourmet Dog LLC
Pub date March 20, 2021
Print length 38 pages
Reading age 3-8 years
ISBN 978-1734542974
Price $20.63 Hardcover, $12.99 Paperback, $3.99 Kindle edition
