The Christmas Tree Mouse

By Author / Illustrator

Joseph Coelho, Farah Shah

Genre

Seasonal

Age range(s)

Publisher

Penguin Random House Children's

ISBN

9780241585481

Format

Paperback / softback

Published

03-10-2024

Synopsis

'Twas the night before Christmas
and all through the house,
Not a creature was stirring, save . . .
CHRISTMAS TREE MOUSE!

And she's on an important mission. A mission to help Santa! Every Christmas Eve, this tiny mouse brushes away Santa's snowy footprints, nibbles up the mince pie crumbs, and - most importantly - checks on her Santa HQ tablet that all the correct presents are under the tree.

But when Christmas Tree Mouse discovers that baby Ola has received the wrong present, it's a CATASTROPHE! Can she use all her special training and determination to save the day? And might Santa himself make a special appearance?

This charming and heartwarming picture book from Waterstones Children's Laureate Joseph Coelho and debut illustrator Farah Shah offers a brilliantly funny sneak peek behind the scenes on the most magical night of the year. The perfect gift for any child this Christmas!

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Reviews

Sue

The Christmas Tree Mouse is on a mission- to help Santa on his busiest night of the year. And when she notices that baby Ola has been left the wrong present, the Christmas Tree Mouse swings into action, using all her special equipment to get the job done, no matter what cat-astrophe might arise!

Perfect for the festive season, The Christmas Tree Mouse is the very thing for snuggling down and sharing in the run up to Christmas. Taking inspiration from the mouse mentioned in the poem by Clement Clarke Moore, Joseph Coelho has created a story explaining the important role of the Christmas Tree Mouse and how she is rewarded in the end!

The Christmas Tree Mouse is an endearing, charming character who takes their duties very seriously. There are many little details to chuckle over and enjoy - I love the idea that Santa squeezes through the letter box! The illustrations are gorgeous with plenty to notice, including the wonderful range of expressions on the Christmas Tree Mouse's face as she goes about her work, faces and overcomes the danger posed by the household cat!

The use of warm Christmas lights against the velvety dark of the night creates a really Christmassy atmosphere, adding to the enjoyment of this cosy tale. Alongside the milk, mince pies and carrots, families are sure to start leaving a lump of cheese for the Christmas Tree Mouse!

Picture book / Reviewed by Sue Wilsher, teacher