MOUSIE, I WILL READ TO YOU

Follow along as a little mouse is taught to love literacy.

Opening on a tiny mouse upon a parent’s lap, snoozing as the parent reads, the book shows how the inquisitive rodent grows into an independent reader “With a flashlight in your room / Reading a chapter book,” then an absorbed college student, and finally the parent of his own little book lover, creating a sentimental ode to lifelong literacy. Hidden within the sweeping, flowery language are step-by-step directions for encouraging emergent literacy: building receptive and expressive language skills with rich vocabulary; modeling complex sentences; regularly sharing songs, stories, and poetry; curating print-rich environments; and utilizing local libraries. It’s a comprehensive list, and grown-ups may appreciate the helpful coaching, especially the “tips for raising readers” appendix. Preschool children, however, may not be entranced by the lengthy free-verse poetry, high-level vocabulary and aspirational direct address of the wise adult guiding a child. If the earnest text is a little message-heavy, the vintage-style digital illustrations help make the medicine go down. Stylishly rendered in dappled, desaturated colors and with oversized ears and lengthy curled tails, the mice are a blend of sophisticated and sweet. Chunky scarves, retro toys, warm domestic scenes and lively playground action bring the mouse’s world to life.

The book’s belief in literacy simply shines through and will appeal to families in search of an attractively illustrated parenting manual.