Library Mouse

The first in a new series, Library Mouse tells the story of Sam, a young mouse who lives in a hole in the library and comes out at night to write stories. His books are soon found by a puzzled librarian, who leaves a note inviting the mystery writer to Meet the Author Day. At first Sam isn't sure what to do, but his ingenious solution is sure to be a real winner. This rousing tale will leave kids itching to write their own stories.

In this sequel to Daniel Kirk's Library Mouse-a Parenting magazine Book of the Year-Sam falls asleep in the library and awakens just in time to scamper out of sight. In his haste, he leaves behind his mouse-sized notebook. As a boy named Tom puzzles over the mystery of such a small book, he discovers Sam's mouse hole. Soon Sam and Tom form an unusual partnership that would surprise others-if they only knew.

In the library, Sam meets a fellow mouse named Sarah, who is quite an explorer. Scurrying along the tops of the bookshelves and scampering around in the darkest corners are some of her favorite pastimes. How different from Sam, who is too frightened to climb! Sam would much rather spend his time learning about new things. In the end, the two can do just about anything if they work together.

In A Museum Adventure, Sam the library mouse and his friend Sarah visit a museum so that Sam can sketch in his explorer's journal. Sarah doesn't understand how explorers can possibly have the time-or the desire-to keep a journal. So Sam shows her how a journal can contain so much more than just writing. As the friends search the museum, they see many new things-and make an unexpected friend.

When Sam the library mouse and his friend Sarah wake to find the library being packed up to prepare for a major renovation, they realize they won' t have a home during the construction. So off they go in search of a new place to live. Sam knows research is key, so he finds books about architectural styles to get ideas for building a temporary home from objects found around the library. They build and live in a variety of houses: a castle, an igloo, a yurt, a modern house, and even a geodesic dome. But none feels like home to Sam. Finally, though, the renovation of the library is complete, and they can move back to their true home, the library! The book includes photos of the real house styles discussed in the text and a relevant glossary of architectural terms.