About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels overshadowed by siblings or discouraged because they do things differently than others. This charming Finnish folktale follows Mikko, a young man who must find a bride by cutting down a tree and following where it points. While his older brothers find traditional human wives, Mikko's tree leads him into the forest to a clever little mouse. It is a story about the beauty of the unexpected and the rewards of being kind to those who seem small or unimportant. The book uses humor and magic to explore themes of empathy and loyalty. It is perfect for children ages 4 to 8, offering a gentle reminder that being 'different' often comes with its own hidden magic and that true worth is found in how we treat others, not in outward appearances.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book is a secular folktale. It touches on sibling rivalry and mockery, but the approach is lighthearted and metaphorical. The resolution is classic 'happily ever after' and highly hopeful.
