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Little Mouse Gets Ready (by Jeff Smith)

common sense media says

Comic starring eager mouse will delight young readers.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know this funny book presents a likeable little hero with whom young kids will empathize.

Educational value: Little Mouse explains each step as he gets ready, reinforcing the sequence for young readers who are working on mastering the same skills.
Positive messages: The eager young mouse has quite a job before him, and despite having to struggle through some steps he remains focused on his goal. The story quietly teaches that it helps to have a sense of humor.
Positive role models: The tiny hero is persistent and positive as he prepares for his big trip. He braces himself to tackle the trickier steps. He demonstrates independence and well-deserved pride when he’s finally all dressed.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
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More on Little Mouse Gets Ready

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
  • Families can talk about getting ready for the day. What would you wear for a trip to a barn? What are the most challenging things for you to put on?
  • Little Mouse works hard to get ready, only to find out all that effort was unnecessary. Has that ever happened to you? How did you feel?
  • Every joke has a setup and a punch line. Look at how the author sets up the punch line here. Are there any clues to what will happen? Would the punch line work if Little Mouse’s mother was in the scene while Little Mouse was getting dressed?
  • Talk about the design of the book, paying particular attention to the sequential panels. Try creating a simple comic book of your own.

What's the story?

What's the story?
Little Mouse is excited to join his family on a trip to the barn. But first, he carefully gets dressed, talking about his hopes for the big trip and explaining each step as he gets ready. He works through all the challenges, like those buttons that always seem too big for the holes. The surprise ending bowls over Little Mouse -- and readers.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Author and illustrator Jeff Smith, best known for his Bone series for older readers, serves up a sweet and funny tale that is perfectly geared to emerging readers. They’ll readily relate to Little Mouse’s eagerness, and to all the work that goes into getting dressed. Bold lines, engaging artwork, and an appealing hero make this a can’t-miss book. It’s a delightful addition to the Toon Books line of first comics for young readers.

Comic-style illustrations use perspective, bold lines, and a simple background to great effect for focused storytelling.

Book themes & details

Book Details
Author: Jeff Smith
Publisher: Raw Junior
Publication date: September 21, 2009
Number of pages: 32
Hardcover price: $12.95
Read Aloud: 3
Read Alone: 6
This review was written by Darienne Hosley Stewart
 
 

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Most useful reviews by all members

jandrewworld
parent of 2 and 7 year old
3
 
This one made me laugh out loud.
After Bone, Jeff Smith did a cute tale that really is perfect for children. It teaches them how to get dressed and has a great punchline that cracked up my family.
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helped me decide (11) | had useful details (7) | read my mind (5)

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ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
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