In this charming picture book written by Susan Hood, the Tooth Mouse
(who replaces the Tooth Fairy in French-speaking countries) has called a
meeting to announce her retirement. "I am not as spry as I used to be
... I have decided it is time to name my successor!" she tells the
surprised crowd. Sophie, an energetic and very tiny mouse, desperately
wants the job. "C'est moi!" Sophie thinks. "Choose me! Choose me!" But
the position of Tooth Mouse --- or La Petite Souris --- isn't just given
to anyone; it must be earned by participating in a difficult and
dangerous three-part contest to determine which of all the mouse
applicants is the most brave, honest and wise. Will Sophie, the smallest
and daintiest of the aspirants, manage to beat the odds and win the
challenging competition for her dream job?In the style of a classic
fable, this gentle yet inspiring story is sure to captivate young
children with the delightful idea of a small mouse making her way under
the pillows of sleeping children at night instead of the Tooth Fairy. It
also provides an irresistible and uplifting message that size doesn't
have to determine who succeeds in life. Award-winning artist Janice
Nadeau's lovely illustrations in soft, muted colors add a delicate
whimsy to the tale. This book would be a fantastic read-aloud for any
storytime. Sprinkled with French expressions and phrases throughout, it
would make a terrific introduction to foreign languages as well.
