Adventuremice: Mice on the Ice

Adventuremice: Mice on the Ice is the third instalment of the Adventuremice series, from Philip Reeve & Sarah McIntyre, and sees the mice encountering snow and ice. Pedro is new to Fledermaus and is far more used to drinking hot chocolate, curled up in front of a fire at Hilltop House. None of his family would have gone outside in snow or ice and yet here he finds himself all wrapped up and embracing the weather. When Pedro finds himself sliding across the sea on his tummy instead of landing with a splash, the mice realise that the sea is frozen over. This means the gang won't be able to get themselves across to the annual Frost Fair, a celebration full of cheese, hot chocolate and other treats. Luckily, Pedro has a solution…

There are moments of suspense, humour and adventure in Mice on the Ice as the group works together, with a little help from one or two guest characters. What is not to love? A boat on skis, a cat to escape from, a Frost Fair to save and a story to share. The spirit of working together and the importance of celebrations 'not just being about treats' is hugely important and one that children will be able to relate to.

Philip Reeve and Sarah McIntyre have created an amazing series which will immediately capture children's imaginations. With colourful illustrations adding to the spectacular adventures, characters and settings, this book has so much to give. I really like the introductions to the characters at the very front of the book and the map of the islands at the back. The how to guide to draw Ivy will be loved by any budding illustrator, too. The language is carefully pitched but not without challenge: nautical terminology such as clipper, bows and starboard may require discussion and explanation.

The Adventuremice series would suit children who are making the jump from picture to illustrated chapter books. This particular series would be brilliant as a read-aloud in KS1 and would suit Y2 and Y3 readers as an independent read. This series always has a waiting list in our school library. They are such a pleasure to read.

128 pages / Reviewed by Amanda Shipton, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 5+