Santa Mouse

In a story that captures the true spirit of Christmas, author Michael Brown presents Santa Mouse. The idea for the book was born out of inspiration from a simple piece of children’s pajama fabric with a miniature little Christmas mouse on it. Initially written in 1964 and published in 1966, this new hardcover edition of Santa Mouse brings this classic holiday story back into the public eye again. In this story, a tiny little mouse living all alone in a great big house spends his time daydreaming of companions that don’t exist. He dreams of playing imaginative dress-up games and indulging in a cup of tea with his guests, yet when he tries to feel their presence, he sadly realizes they are each no more than a figment of his imagination. One day, he reaches into a shallow drawer and gently pulls out something he has saved for just the right occasion: a piece of neatly-cut yellow cheese. When he suddenly realizes that no one ever gives Santa a present, he decides he’ll wrap the cheese up and gift it to the one who gifts the most. He wakes up the following day to find himself peering directly into Santa’s eyes. When Santa thanks him for the present and discovers that the poor little mouse has no name, he decides to adopt him as his helper and give him the name of Santa Mouse. As he journeys from house to house with the jolly old man, delivering presents to all those who are deserving, the little mouse concludes his ventures feeling a sense of contentment, for which he could previously only yearn.

This young children’s story is one that will touch the hearts of young readers and old readers alike. It’s a memorable holiday tale about thoughtfulness, kindness, and companionship, making it ideal for those students in pre-K through second-grade classrooms. Teachers and parents can use it as a catalyst to spark timely, impactful discussions about the meanings of generosity and selflessness, and how embodying these favorable attributes can make deep changes in the lives of others. It is a wonderful story, as well, for parents and grandparents to share with their loved ones. It’s sure to brighten some souls and fill a number of homes with holiday cheer. The adorable, detailed illustrations by Elfrieda De Witt fill the pages of this beloved picture book with elements of vibrancy, awe, and poignancy, and the text is spread across the pages sparingly enough to keep the attention of even the youngest ones. The words are easy to decipher in its simple, unadorned font, and the book is ideal for those reading at a second-grade level. This hardcover edition, in particular, has attractive, embossed lettering and decoration on its exterior, of which young students will be especially fond! The subtle rhyming pattern throughout is yet another inviting feature of this high-quality holiday picture book.