Mouse’s Night Before Christmas
Tracey Corderoy, Author
Sarah Massinni, Illustrator
Candlewick, Fiction, Oct. 13, 2020
Suitable for ages: 2-5
Themes: Animals, Christmas, Friendship
Opening: ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house / not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.”
Publisher’s Synopsis:
It’s Christmas Eve and everyone is fast asleep — except for one lonely mouse who makes a Christmas wish. So when Santa arrives after getting lost in a blizzard, Mouse is there to show him and the reindeer the way. Together they embark on a magical sleigh ride, delivering presents all around town And the last present is just for Mouse: his wish to make a new friend to share Christmas Day with has finally come true!
Why I like this book:
What an endearing new take on the classic Christmas tale! It is magical and younger children will enjoy the rhyming text. When Santa gets lost, Mouse has fun helping Santa deliver gifts and stuffing stockings. When their work is completed, Mouse is sad. But Santa hands him a special gift with a map. Will his wish be granted?
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a positive message without the bluster of many other holiday stories. It is a simple story about the friendship between two unlikely friends. It speaks to the true nature of Christmas.
Children will be captivated by Sarah Massini’s warm and cozy illustrations. Her attention to detail is exquisite,
Tracey Corderoy is the author of the Hubble Bubble books, as well as Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam and The Boy and the Bear. As a teacher with a passion for literature, she’s constantly coming up with ideas for stories. She lives in a valley in Gloucestershire, England, with her husband, two children, and an ever-increasing menagerie of cute but sometimes naughty pets.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books (PPB) with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s website.
*Review copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a review.
Children's Books Heal 
This looks such a sweet book. And I love your activity suggestions. A wonderful choice for the holidays!
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It is a sweet Christmas story about friendship!
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What a lovely selection, Patricia! I’m feeling a bit in need of some Christmas cheer, and this looks like a spark of light in the midst of all this tragedy. I saw a photo yesterday, of a plastic hug barrier, where visitors could hug their family members who are in assisted living facilities, and I burst out crying. Take care, and please stay healthy!
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It’s a perfect Christmas story for young children. Now a plastic hug barrier sounds like a creative idea to let family members see loved ones. It’s sad it’s needed, but safe. You stay healthy and well!
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I’ve been on the lookout for some new Christmas stories. My gift list is needing a book like this to give to young relatives. Thanks for the perfect timing.
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It is a sweet story with a great message!
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Cool pick, P. Mom and I are a little afraid of mice, but this one sounds kind of sweet.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
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Not my favorite either — unless they are in picture books and movies. I also shared a book on Monday I think you and your mom would love — Bionic Beasts. It’s my Dec. 7 review and you can see the video. It features animals (dog included) that have been helped with prosthetics. Loved this book.
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Endearing without bluster – sounds perfect for me! Thanks for the lovely review.
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You are welcome. It is a charming holiday book.
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