FICTION

How to Catch a Mouse

by Philippa LEATHERS
illus. by Philippia Leathers. 40p. Candlewick. 2015. Tr $15.99. ISBN 9780763669126. LC 2013957388.
COPY ISBN
Toddler-PreS—Observant toddlers and preschoolers will enjoy spotting the mouse hidden in nearly every pencil and watercolor illustration, as Clemmie the cat confidently smirks at her supposed mouse-hunting prowess. Clemmie researches tell-tale signs of a mouse from a book, but is led astray by ordinary household items such as a long pink tail that turns out to be the ribbon of a hat, and so on. Gradually, the mouse assembles a costume that hides all distinctive mousy features. Clemmie's bushy-tailed fear at finally uncovering a real-live mouse is quite amusing. Two can play at that game, as Clemmie works on her own art of disguise to finally chase the mouse around. Yellow endpapers feature cat and mouse tracks.
VERDICT A sweetly funny tale for storytimes or one-on-one read-alouds.
Reviewed by Madigan McGillicuddy, Atlanta-Fulton Public Library, Atlanta, GA
Tabby cat Clemmie fancies herself an excellent mouse catcher (she reads how-to books), even though she's never seen a mouse (because "all the mice are afraid of me"). Clean pencil and watercolor illustrations tell another story of a clever mouse that knows how to disguise its mousy appearance. In a wonderful plot twist, Clemmie learns the art of disguise herself--look out mouse!
An engaging, simple story that is perfect for reading aloud. Children will appreciate being in on the joke as the mouse repeatedly outsmarts the oblivious Clemmie. They'll also enjoy spotting the mouse in the illustrations. The artwork charmingly conveys Clemmie's range of emotions, from her pride at "scaring" the mice away to her satisfaction at finally finding her prey.
, Jun 01, 2015

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