A Brand-New Day with Mouse and Mole <small> by Wong Herbert Yee</small>

If your child likes Frog and

Toad, then you might want to check out this series by Wong Herbert Yee. Like F&T, the Mouse and Mole stories are gentle and sweet and rather silly.

In this book there are four chapters that may be read separately or all together. They carry the themes of 'old' and 'new', the subject of which varies from trying new things to recycling old ones.

The book begins with Mole's discovery that his clothes' drawers have been invaded by moths. He and Mouse chase the moths off, but the damage is done and there doesn't seem to be anything to do but replace the nibbled goods with new.

The pair head off to shop, but don't you know, chasing moths is hungry work, and they decide to stop for a little nosh. It's at the restaurant, the author strives to promote the idea that trying new food can be a great and wonderful experience. He shows Mole reluctant to do so, while Mouse, on the other hand, digs in and experiences all sorts of fun new foods for lunch.

The tables are turned though at the store. And those of us who have had, or do have, children who are stuck on certain pieces of clothing will appreciate Mole's adventuresome spirit that leads him to break-out and try some radically different garments.

The last two sections are where the idea of recycling the old and making something new arises. While fishing, Mole get the idea to reuse an old tire as a new swing; and, in turn, Mouse thinks to patch Moles old clothes to make them nice again.

Talking Points:::
Similar to the wonderful Frog and Toad series. Mouse and Mole are worth checking out at the library.

As a parent, I loved the 'support' the characters provide for trying new things while making the best of old ones.

Pam
Somewhere in the X-burbs