Rock 'n' Roll Mole

K-Gr 2—With his leather jacket, cool shades, and confident strut, Mole oozes style. He plays guitar "like a legend," but paralyzing stage fright prevents him from sharing his talents with an audience. His friend Pig tries to encourage him to perform at a school assembly, but Mole resolutely refuses. At the mere mention of getting up on stage, his "paws shook" and his "legs wobbled." On the day of the talent show, Mole triumphs over his fears to help a friend. Munsinger's charming band of characters includes a break-dancing pig, a skateboarding raccoon, and a trio of swooning chicks. The watercolor illustrations are full of witty details like a guitar-shaped lamp and punny posters of superstars "Goose Springsteen," "Mick Badger," and "Moo 2." Children will identify with Mole's anxiety and will cheer for his rockin' success.—Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada