Bless This Mouse by Lois Lowry - ADVISABLE

Lowry, Lois Bless This Mouse, 160 pgs. Houghton Mifflin Books for Children, 2011. $15.99. Language: G; Mature Content: G; Violence: PG.  

Hildegarde is leader of a group of mice who live within the walls of Saint Bartholemew’s Church. They live a happy and simple existence always being careful to stay well hidden and out of sight. Hildegarde’s leadership skills are put to the test when she must face protecting the mice from two different threats. Because one of the mice was careless and allowed herself to be seen, the Great X (exterminator) has been called in. Add to this the annual Blessing of the Animals, which could spell disaster if the weather doesn’t cooperate and the animals have to be brought into the church where *gasp* the cats will have full access to the defenseless mice. Will Hildegarde be able to protect the mice? Will she be able to prove herself as the great leader that she is?

This book is a sweet story that teaches about responsibility and what it means to be a true leader. Detailing the lives, loves, and potential losses in a community of mice this book will appeal to young readers. There are some mildly distressing moments when the mice are threatened, but nothing to bring lasting agitation to the reader.

Upper EL—ADVISABLE.   AEB Social Studies Teacher