CINCO DE MOUSE-O!

Mouse is ready for another fiesta adventure (One is a Feast for Mouse, 2009). It is the fifth of May, and the blend of aromas of Mexican food hits Mouse’s little house—an old clock—and wakes him up. Mouse leaves his cubbyhole and wanders through the house, where kids, Mom and Dad are engaged in their everyday activities. The “beany, cheesy, ricey smells” take Mouse out of the house, through the streets to the city park. There Mouse finds a busy street festival: papel picado decorations, food, dancers, a live mariachi band and children and adults enjoying a Cinco de Mayo celebration. Mouse cannot resist the temptation to jump on top of the colorful piñata to get the candy inside—but will this be Cat’s golden opportunity? Ebbeler’s feisty full-page illustrations of the world from Mouse’s perspective expand on Cox’s ebullient text and enchanting story line, establishing the adorable Mouse as a character that children, parents, teachers and librarians will want to follow from one celebration to the next. Ebbeler’s color-soaked illustrations avoid stereotypes and are a refreshing approach to Mexican folk art and traditions. (Picture book. 4-8)