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Tuesday, October 25, 2022

The Mouse Who Carried A House On His Back, written by Jonathan Stutzman and illustrated by Isabelle Arsenault. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House. 2022. $24.99 ages 4 and up

 


"But the cat was mistaken. 
Vincent's house was much larger than it appeared. 

There was even room for a hungry cat. 

Clouds billowed in the west, and in blew a family 
of hedgehogs - one by one by one by one by one - 
each wet and tousled by a mighty storm.
"

It is certainly understood when readers catch their first glimpse of Vincent, the mouse carrying a house on his back, that there is little room inside that abode. After a long trek, Vincent finds the place he wants to be. Nothing special about it; it speaks to Vincent with the grass, the path, the hill, and the endless sky. He settles his house in an appropriate spot. 

Soon, an extremely tired bullfrog appears on the path. Vincent invites him in to rest. The bullfrog guffaws, assuming the house is much too small to provide him shelter. To his surprise, Vincent's house offers both space and comfort. The same thing happens with a hungry cat, a family of hedgehogs, and a multitude of other forest creatures. Vincent's house grows in relation to the number of its occupants. 

At dinner one night, a cold, tired, lost bear knocks at the door. Vincent remains kind and accommodating as the rest of the residents express shock and worry over the bear's intentions. Vincent will not be deterred; the bear expresses concern that the house is much too small for a bear its size. Vincent assures him that all will be well. There is definitely room! 

Following an overnight storm, morning brings sunlight and the departure of Vincent's many guests. Vincent's house is empty once again. He picks it up and carries it on his back until he finds the next place he needs to be.  

Warm and cozy artwork is as inviting as Vincent is. His house is a place of comfort, shown in the many fine details drawn by Ms. Arsenault. The dark rainy night creates a fearful atmosphere for those who want nothing to do with a bear. Generosity is at the heart of Vincent's welcome and the bear soon becomes another house guest. As the house grows, Ms. Arsenault creates additions to the original, until an open gatefold allows readers to see the many changes that need to be made to accommodate all. 

What an extraordinary and hospitable home it turns out to be. 

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