About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is feeling like the odd one out after a move or a change in social circles. This gentle story follows a family of fieldmice who move into a new neighborhood only to find that the local children aren't exactly welcoming at first. Through the protagonists' journey, children learn that persistence and sharing one's own creative world can be the bridge to building new friendships. Ideal for ages 4 to 8, this early chapter book uses humor and animal metaphors to tackle the very real sting of social rejection. It is a wonderful choice for parents looking to model social initiative and resilience. By focusing on how the mice use a play to catch their neighbors' interest, the book encourages children to look inward at their own talents when they feel like they don't fit in.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with social exclusion and the loneliness of being the 'new kid.' The approach is metaphorical, using different animal species to represent social barriers. The resolution is hopeful and realistic, suggesting that shared activities are the best way to break the ice.
