This divine little book will be an immediate hit
with very young children. The characters are two mice – Mummy Mouse and Little
Mouse.
They set out on the train to pick berries in the country. It becomes a
journey of learning and discovery for Little Mouse.
A page of full colour, labelled items appear as
they pack their bags. Little Mouse is taking too many toys with him. He can’t decide so Mummy decides for him.
A detailed
double spread shows them setting out on one page and in the railway station on
the other. These items and settings are opportunities to increase knowledge and
language.
From inside the train carriage Little Mouse can see
the countryside. Beautiful trees ablaze in autumn colour fill the landscape.
It’s all interesting at first but boredom soon sets in. So it’s off to the
dining car.
Grandpa Mouse is at the station to meet them. Mummy
purchases groceries and at the lakeshore, they put on their life vests. Grandpa
directs his boat towards their cabin.
In front of a blazing fire they play cards, read a
book in bed and the next morning they are ready for berry picking.
The woods are a new experience. In the quiet, tall
trees tower over them as they fill their baskets.
This sweet story about new adventures in a country
environment opens windows of interest for youngsters to learn from. Roasting
sausages in an open fire outdoors, getting a crawly stuck on your clothes,
having to use an outhouse, and being able to see the stars directly above your
head, will be of immense interest to children.
The gorgeous illustrations in vibrant colour,
educate as they entertain and visually reinforce the text. The stunning covers
spark interest and then the story and artwork does the rest.
I saw this delicate adventure as a journey into and
through, unknown territory.
Meet Riikka Jantti in our fascinating Meet the Illustrator interview with her by KBR's Katrin Dreiling.
Title: Little Mouse’s Holiday
Author
/ Illustrator: Riikka Jantti
Publisher:
Scribble, $17.99
Publication
Date: 2 July 2019
Format:
Hardcover
ISBN:
9781925322200
For
ages: 5+
Type:
Picture Book