The Umbrella Mouse

I did not expect this book to be as intense as it was, but we started it shortly after visiting the National WWII museum in New Orleans and everyone from my 5 year old daughter to 9 and 10 year old sons were enthralled.It is a very accurate intensity. It was akin to Band of Brothers with animal main characters. The author is not trying to make it a softer picture of war just because the main characters are animals. The author's note at the end made the whole book even more fascinating- be sure to read it!You will probably cry. More than once. That's demonstrative of how good this book is!

Reviewed by my 10 year old son -This was a really enjoyable book to read. There are lots of sad parts in the book but I expected this, knowing it was written about a war. Don’t let this put you off though as it is a great story!It is about a brave little mouse called Pip, set during World War 2.She lives in an umbrella shop in England. Sadly her parents and the humans that live in the shop are killed by a bomb that hits it. She is the only survivor. Her only remaining relations live in Italy. By helping Noah’s Ark, a group of other animals who are fighting with the resistance in France, she hopes to make it closer to her family.I really liked that the story was from a mouse’s perspective, rather than a humans. It made it a really different and interesting story.There are a few illustrations throughout the book, which I always think help to bring a story to life more.I’m really looking forward to reading the 2nd book.

Wonderful story engages children in an important part of British history during WWII. The characters are very engaging and keep you adsorbed in the story. It is an original and charming book.

Heartbreaking and heartwarming in equal measures, The Umbrella Mouse is an action-packed historical fiction giving a new spin on a wartime story.The characters were captivating; I always love anything written from the perspective of animals and this particular book did it so well, creating a believable and lifelike adventure with loveable animals.Of course, the subject matter made for some very sad moments, but this poignant and engaging book has many wonderful moments too meaning you won't want to put it down!I want a movie!!

This story is a movie just waiting to happen.