Anatole

I'm no fan of mice in real life, but it was impossible not to be charmed by Anatole and his antics. French mice are clearly a cut above, as when Anatole overhears humans complaining about the theft of thier food by the mice he decides to go and get himself a respectable job. Of course, what better place for a mouse to find employment than at a cheese factory, where his keen sense of taste can be put to good use! I'm a bit shocked that the cheesemakers don't have the same complaints as the other human characters in this book, since Anatole is still putting his little mousey paws all over food meant to be consumed by humans, but clearly Anatole has figured out how to disguise his little nibbles. The cheese makers remain blissfully unaware show more of Anatole's true nature, Anatole gains respectable employment, and the people of France get an even higher quality of cheese - wins all around! show less

First sentence: In all France there was no happier, more contented mouse than Anatole. He lived in a small mouse village near Paris with his dear wife Doucette and their six charming children--Paul and Paulette, Claude and Claudette, George and Georgette.

Premise/plot: Anatole is flustered, to say the least, when he learns that humans think of mice as vermin. He decides to 'redeem' the way things are--mice sneaking human food. He goes to a cheese factory prepared. He brings typed notes (flags, I believe). Extra-'Specially Good, 'Specially Good, Good, Not So Good, No Good. He will stick these flags/notes into each cheese he samples. He'll also write additional notes sharing his opinions. M. Duvall is surprised but ultimately pleased. He show more listens to Anatole's advice and his sales increase. Anatole has a gift for what makes a great cheese great. M. Duvall invites Anatole to continue visiting the factory and helping out. He even leaves extra snacks and treats. (Of course, he doesn't know Anatole is a mouse exactly). Anatole is therefore honorably able to provide for his family. It's a win-win situation...

My thoughts: I LOVED this one. I loved it so much!!! It is one of those that is practically perfect in every way. I loved the text, the story. I loved the illustrations. What a fun world Eve Titus created!

I really loved the five categories Anatole uses. I might even use those categories instead of stars. Maybe. show less

This is the first and best book about Anatole, the mouse magnifique. I adore the illustrations and their red/white/blue saturation. I love Anatole's cute little wife, Doucette. I love her name. I like the idea that Anatole wants to earn a living doing what he does best and despite the obstacles, he finds a way to do it. I love his cheese rating system. I love the whole thing!

This is a charming story of a Parisian mouse attempting to preserve his dignity by doing something useful for people. He is a cheese connoisseur after all, so he sneaks into a cheese shop and offers his ratings and suggestions for improvement of the various cheeses. This would pair well with LIBRARY MOUSE.

Anatole, is a charming book with incredible illustrations. The way Galdone captured perfectly the little French town is magical. The illustrations are representative of what we are reading on the page and explain the humor to readers of all ages. A lot of the drawings are in black and white although the French flag colors are present as well. The rooftops and some clothes are red and stand out. Galdone include French nuances throughout the illustrations and I love how the mice are dressed and living the way we image life in France.
I could see using this book for a critical thinking discussion on prejudices or beliefs that some may have about others. We could break down what that looks like, and ways we could help.

Anatole is a mouse who goes into the human world at night to find food for his family. One night he overhears what humans think about mice and decides he will help instead of being a freeloader. He goes to the cheese factory and rates their cheeses, leaving notes on how to improve them. The cheese factory increases its sales. Anatole remains anonymous.

I enjoyed this story. It is fun. I like Anatole's solution and his comments on the cheese. I think the Disney movie, Ratatouille, is somewhat based on this book. The kids will enjoy it

Upon hearing how humans really feel about thieving mice foraging in their homes to get by and feed their own families, one mouse decides to make a difference. Instead of stealing food from humans, Anatole thinks he can help them out and be fed as a reward.

Reading Level: Primary
Genre: Fantasy