Despite his animal friends' best efforts, nothing can cheer up poor Mouse. His friends try all sorts of things such as lifting him into the air, bouncing him on a tablecloth, even rolling him around, but nothing seems to help. Finally, he gets a hug from one furry friend, and his despondency seems to disappear. Readers never find out the source of his misery, but the book's message is clear. Sometimes it helps just to know someone cares enough to share a tender touch. The illustrations, created with watercolors, pastels, and colored pencils, are filled with much movement from the animals as well as puzzled looks as they try to determine what is bothering Mouse. His body language speaks volumes as he travels across the book's pages. The last page, filled with celebration, at Mouse's improved spirits, simply bursts with joy from all his friends. Mouse’s friends take on the task of cheering up their glum little pal. As they all try to put a smile on his face, it starts to seem like nothing will work — until chipmunk steps in.This beautifully illustrated book would be a fantastic lap read for an older toddler or preschooler. Due to the spare text, it probably wouldn’t be an ideal storytime read — but could work for a small group.
What do You think about Cheer Up, Mouse! (2013)?
Such a subtle way to illustrate a wordless and basic need.
—mitchi300
