An interesting book. I definitely enjoyed it, but wasn’t sure what to make of it as I read. First the mouse completely cast out and unloved by his family, then a light loving rat dragged over to the dark side… topped by someone who sells ther child into slavery and the child is beaten until nearly deaf… I know I read things like that as a child and thought nothing of it…. Fairytale content shocked my adult mind. Still, it held my interest and things were generally satisfying by the end ( )

**3.5 Stars**

Such a nostalgic read. Does the entire thing hold up now that I’m reading it as an adult. No. There are parts that I can reflect on and say hmmm maybe thats not the greatest thing ever. Is it clearly a book written for children. Yes. Does it still make me feel good reading it because it reminds me of sitting in my elementary school library. Yes. In the grand scheme of things it's a sweet story about love, light, and hope, as well as at the end of the day, nothing is more important than soup. ( )

This book is so precious. A little too precious for some, no doubt, but just the right amount of precious for me. It made me smile and and it made me want to eat soup. ( )

Independent Reading Grade Level: 4-7
Awards: Newbery Medal (2004)