Mousemobile: When Mice Hit the Road

Gr 3–5—In order to spread the word about climate change, mice have created and perfected tiny computers called Thumbtops. Humans Megan, her cousin Joey, and her Uncle Fred have great summer jobs at the plant that makes the technology. There's just one problem. The organization, W.A.T.C.H. (We're Against the Climate Hoax), is upset that someone has been spreading "lies" about climate change and they are determined to bring them down. The organization learns that mice, along with Megan and her Uncle Fred, are somehow involved. Inside the Mouse Nation, one or more of the mice have spilled most of the crackers in exchange for a reward. Now the animals and the humans are trying to escape the organization's clutches, and the Big Cheese (the leader of the mice) suspects Megan and her uncle of betrayal. Can they clear their names? Although it is a little preachy, this story teaches an important lesson. The characters are likable, strong, and well developed, and the plot is simple, but well done. The illustrations are detailed and complement the text. Readers who liked Mousenet (Hyperion, 2011) and enjoy fantasy, animal books, and adventure will appreciate this novel.—Kira Moody, Whitmore Public Library, Salt Lake City, UT