When Pip the mouse sees a bat flying in the sky he becomes fixated on wanting to fly too. With a clever, creative flair, he makes cardboard wings and announces himself as Batmouse; he flaps around the house and even tries jumping from the top of a hill to fly. Despite his determination he doesn’t have much luck with flying; and then, just when you’d think he might give up, he meets an actual bat… will this be Pip’s chance to learn to fly?
When discovering some eye opening facts about bats, in particular, their choice of food, Pip reconsiders, maybe he’s satisfied with being a mouse… or is he? An amusing end prevails.
I love how the story explores Pip’s drive and ambition but also gives a message about staying true to who or what you are. I also adore the charming illustrations which feature a bold palette of primary colours and show flowing movement and emotion in the characters.
A page at the back of the book features teacher notes with ideas for questions and discussions to have after or during reading.
Steve Smallman is a UK author and illustrator with over 35 years experience and an almost endless list of books including The Lamb Who Came For Dinner and Astromouse; another story featuring Pip the mouse.
Title: Batmouse
Author/Illustrator: Steve Smallman
Publisher: QED PUBLISHING, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 April 2016
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781781715734
For ages: 0 – 5
Type: Picture Book
