MINA

Mina, a tiny white mouse, does not know what to think about her father’s unusual houseguests.

Introvert Mina generally isn’t bothered by any of her father’s odd finds, including old tin cans, stamps he displays as fine art, and a troupe of wandering musicians. What finally pulls her nose out of her books are the “squirrels” her father brings home…rather huge, cat-looking ones. Suspecting that the creatures aren’t really squirrels, Mina keeps a wary eye on them for the next few days while her father makes the guests feel at home. When the cats turn against the mice, Mina’s father’s previous adventure in teaching stick insects to read comes in handy, and his refrain that “everything will be fine” proves true. Forsythe manages to convey so much personality in such a small package. Mina’s ability to remain engrossed in her books despite her eccentric father’s whims is amusing. The soft-edged illustrations have the gorgeous warmth and glow of firelight, with a palette dominated by shades of orange, burnt browns, and ranges of yellow with touches of blue. Light and shadow bring the mice’s world to life, providing dimension and movement. One cat is so expertly drawn that a slight shift of its eyes captures its sly intentions. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Captivating illustrations paired with a simple, charming story.