Emily Bearn

Deep inside the broom cupboard of Rose Cottage, two mice live in great style.
Tumtum and Nutmeg lead cozy and quiet lives, secretly looking after Arthur and Lucy, the disheveled human children of the cottage, never dreaming that so many exciting adventures will soon find them. But when evil Aunt Ivy, a squeamish schoolteacher named Miss Short, and pirating pond rats threaten the safety of those they hold dear, the courageous pair will stop at nothing to save the day.
In three thrilling tales of daring and wit, Tumtum and Nutmeg-along with veteran hero General Marchmouse, Ms. Tiptoe's bouncing ballerina army, and a team of caged gerbils--prove that small-size mice can have world-size hearts.… (more)

Young Reader Reaction: We tried to read this to our daughter several times over a year's time. When we finally did start reading it, she lost interest in those first 100 pages, claiming that she knew how it would end.

Adult Reader Reaction: I was disappointed that my daughter didn't stay around for the whole story. I kept reading and thoroughly enjoyed the book. It reminded me a bit of Stuart Little and The Nutcracker Suite. The characters are fun (even over-the-top Aunt Ivy), there are some humorous scenes, and it has the happy ending you hope for as you read along.

Pros: There is plenty of action and adorable characters in this imaginative, must-read-aloud story for children.

To read our full review, go to The Reading Tub®.… (more)