Out, Mouse!
by Valerie L. Egar
Narrated by Paul Collins
Listening Length : 35 minutes
Audio Release date : May 12, 2021
Publisher : Whistle Oak (April 6, 2021)
Reading Age: Ages 6 to 9
Paperback : 78 pages
Genre: Children's, Folk Tales, Mice, Multicultural
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Content 5.0; Narration 5.0.
Publisher's Summary
Mouse problems? Professor Dunderbutt advises writing a polite letter to the mice, suggesting a better place to live. If the first letter doesn't work, try again. And again. His method never fails. But...the two mice in Finn's cottage are fussy. They expect indoor plumbing. A library. Raisin scones. Finn searches the Irish countryside for a house that will please his unwelcome guests. He writes polite letters. Will the professor's advice work?
Based on an Irish folk belief, Out, Mouse! is a humorous early chapter book for children aged six to nine with the mice outsmarting Finn at every turn. Thirteen chapters with an author's note, narrated by British actor Paul Collins. May be used in conjunction with the paperback to aid word recognition and reading skills.
©2021 Valerie L. Egar (P)2021 Valerie L. Egar
Review:
Finn discovers two little mice are sharing his home, eating his breakfast and chewy on the morning paper. He researches how to address the problem and decides to implement Professor Dunderbutt's advice to write a polite letter suggesting a better place for the mice. They go and explore the recommendation, but later in the day he finds them returned to his cottage. He tries other properties, with more room, more food sources, more amenities, better views, by the sea, in the country, in the city, in a lighthouse or a castle... Each time the mice investigate but return. What is it they want?
The professor becomes annoyed and frustrated but modifies his angry outbursts to continue to write polite letters. Can he convince them to move out? The result, especially the conclusion, is quite cute.
I wanted a quick read/listen and this fit the bill. I also downloaded the book (adobe digital edition) and like the short chapters perfect for sharing with children. It is also a light delight for adults to enjoy too. I easily recommend this to readers who are looking for a quick, humorous read/listen.
Audio Notes: Paul Collins does a lovely narration with a distinct accent that puts one in the modest setting. I think children would enjoy listening too and I would love to share this with my grandchildren.
Source: NetGalley 2021. This qualifies for 2021NetGalley and 2021Audio goals.
