Young Fredle is a kitchen mouse, well fed, clean, and happily living behind a wall with his mom, dad, and the whole family. Kitchen mice forage at night, free from predators, and then they sleep their days away. One night, Fredle discovers a deliciously sweet and enticing peppermint patty. Overwhelmed by the delight of such an exotic treat he eats way, way, way too much! When Fredle becomes seriously ill from his gluttony, his family pushes him out of the nest and leaves him to die-it's the way of all kitchen mice. Missus, upon finding a sick mouse in her kitchen, takes mercy on him and gently removes him to the outside, where he will either survive or not.

 

Now Fredle finds himself in a strange new world, filled with strange new ways, creatures, challenges, and adventures. At first, he's sure that this will be the end of one way-too-curious mouse. As he begins to learn his way around his enormous new world, he quickly discovers all the bad things that can happen to outdoor mice. Who could have imagined that predators can fly?! How could he have guessed there was a world where the nighttime is too dangerous for foraging, and you must find your own food in broad daylight?

 

Before too long, however, Fredle begins to see that there is more to life outside than he first thought. Sure, plenty of it is scary, but soon he also finds beauty, freedom, and, surprisingly, friendship. Fredle settles into his new life outside and although he thrives, the hope of someday returning to his home and family is never too far from his attention. What will they all say to see a mouse return from certain death? How will he ever explain the beauty of a star-filled night? Even if he finds a way back into the farmhouse, can he ever return to the small quiet life he used to know?

 

In the hands of Newbery Award winner Cynthia Voigt, young Fredle comes alive as do all the other creatures who share his life on the farm. He is a heroic little lead character, filled with determination, kindness, and smarts. There is enough adventure built into his exploits to keep kids Grades 3 to 5 engaged and pulling for him. The book includes clever illustrations to break up the text and the audiobook is expertly performed by actress Wendy Carter. For kids who like to read in series, this is a follow-up title to Sadie and Angus (2005) and adds to the Davis Farm series. For grownups who can still believe in the magic of mice, this book is a treat.

 

Submitted by Deb Schepp
Children's Services, C. Burr Artz Public Library