SPRINGTIME MIRACLES AND MUD

A lively bunch of animals discovers new interests in this debut middle-grade novel.

Leon the field mouse doesn’t have many friends. He mostly reads books inside a shed so tiny there’s no room for guests. His pal Ralph the woodchuck suggests they both find other hobbies. So they look for ideas from other animals in the woods, on the Hochmeisters’ farm, and at the pond. For example, Brenda the mourning dove’s favorite hobby is singing, and Harry the toad likes “basking and blinking,” which is apparently much tougher than it sounds. As Leon and Ralph learn about different pastimes, they also make new friends, each one joining them on their excursion. Suddenly, this eclectic group faces a harrowing ordeal. But they may be able to tackle if they stay united. And that field mouse, even if he’s much smaller than the other animals, can lend a helping paw. Segelstein’s simple tale introduces a plethora of four-legged and winged creatures who overflow with personality. This includes redwing blackbird Trevor, who grumbles over his dad’s singing lessons; Fidgit the squirrel and the curious way he sharpens his mind; and Horace, a mutt who lives on the farm and is proud of his impeccable sniffer. The crew faces individual dilemmas, too. Leon sadly writes himself off as “just a field mouse,” and Benny, another woodchuck, struggles with anxiety. Segelstein’s joyful depiction of sharing skills and hobbies will enchant youngsters. The animals, who articulate their feelings and interests and are indisputably stronger when they work together, collectively demonstrate the importance of community. Maliush’s charming illustrations give each animal its due, skillfully rendering, for example, a porcupine’s quills or a redwing blackbird’s markings.

This quiet, delightful, and profound story will make young readers feel as warm and fuzzy as the cast members.