Book Review: 'Seven Little Mice Go to School' by Haruo Yamashita

✰✰✰✰✰ Seven little mice are starting school tomorrow. They have new hats, book bags, and shoes, but there's just one problem. None of the little mice want to go to school. Each has an excuse for not wanting to go. "School is too far away!" said one. "There will be a snake on the path!" exclaimed another. Oh, what a fuss the little mice made. What is Mother to do?

Late that night, Mother comes up with a plan. When her children wake up in the morning, they are surprised to discover that the train for school is leaving soon. With each little mouse holding the tail of the one in front, they become the Mouse Train. They chug along through the forest until they come to a dark tunnel where there is a surprise waiting for them. Will they get to school on time or will they all turn around and run home? Read this charming picture book to find out.

The Bottom Line: First published in Japan in 1981, Seven Little Mice Go to School is a classic tale of first day of school anxiety. Through Yamashita's gentle storytelling, the little mice learn that going to school can be an adventure. Soft watercolor illustrations by Kazuo Iwamura perfectly complement the story by adding humor. Anxious little ones heading off to preschool or kindergarten for the first time will enjoy this picture book. Highly recommended for kids ages 3 - 5. Also, be sure to check out the other adventures the seven little mice have.

Details: Seven Little Mice Go to School written by Haruo Yamashita & illustrated by Kazuo Iwamura. Hardcover picture book published by North-South Books in 2011. 32 p. ISBN: 978-0-7358-4012-6