Booklist Review of Harvest Mouse

Up-close photos of the tiny harvest mouse do the heavy lifting in this volume in the Wildlife Watchers series (4 titles), aimed at the primary grades. Shown snacking, climbing, snuggling, and scurrying, this adorable rodent will easily attract an eager audience. Newly independent readers will find support in the large, easy-to-read text, bolded vocabulary (defined in a picture glossary), and clearly labeled illustrations. The text has a narrative feel as it follows a harvest mouse as she eats, builds a nest, gives birth, and cares for her babies. Familiar points of reference—the mouse weighs less than a quarter, and her nest is the size of a tennis ball—are thoughtfully integrated and will boost youngsters’ understanding. An engaging introduction to the nonfiction format and an incredibly cute creature.