Mouseheart
#1 of 3 in Mouseheart Series
What’s inside...
The Warriors series meets Redwall in this first book in an epic animal adventure series set in the subway tunnels of Brooklyn. Hopper is just an ordinary pet shop mouse before he escapes. Soon he finds himself below the bustling streets of Brooklyn, deep within the untamed tangles of transit tunnels, and in Atlantia, a glorious utopian rat civilization. But all is not what it seems. Though Hopper is treated as a royal guest, he misses his siblings that he lost in the escape attempt. That, and Atlantia is constantly threatened by the rebels who wish to bring the city to its knees. And there are cats everywhere in Atlantia, cats that leave the citizens unharmed and no one can seem to answer why. Soon, Hopper is caught in the crosshairs of a colossal battle, one that crosses generations and species. As the clashes rage, Hopper learns terrible, extraordinary secrets: Deadly secrets about Atlantia. Painful secrets about his friends. And one powerful secret about his destiny.
Character compass
Hopper
Zucker
Firren
Titus
Pinkie
Discussion points
How do you think Hopper felt when he discovered the world outside the pet shop? Can you relate to his feelings?
What do you think about the concept of courage in the story? How did different characters show bravery?
How does Hopper's journey change his views about friendship and trust? Have you ever had a similar experience?
What role do you think loyalty plays in the relationships between the characters in 'Mouseheart'?
If you were in Hopper’s place, what would you have done differently? Why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Prompt your child to think about the similarities and differences between their experiences and Hopper’s, enhancing personal connection with the story.
Discuss the ethical dilemmas characters face to help your child develop critical thinking about right and wrong.
Encourage your child to predict what might happen next at various points in the story to engage their analytical thinking.
Use characters' decisions and actions as a basis for conversations on bravery and making difficult choices.
Share your own thoughts and feelings about the book’s events to model reflective thinking and to show that all views are valued.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: In 'Mouseheart', the protagonist, a young mouse, faces numerous challenges and threats, showcasing bravery throughout his journey.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their fears and stand up for themselves, drawing on the mouse's courage in challenging situations at school or in social settings.
Example Lesson: Friendship and Loyalty
Explanation: The story emphasizes the importance of friendships and being loyal to those who care about you, as the mouse allies with other characters.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to value and nurture relationships, understanding the importance of supporting friends in need.
Example Lesson: Justice and Fairness
Explanation: The protagonist strives for justice within the animal kingdom, highlighting themes of fairness and equality.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply these principles by treating everyone equally, learning to share, and making fair decisions in their interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and Resilience
Explanation: Despite obstacles, the mouse demonstrates perseverance, continually striving to achieve his goals.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to not give up easily on their goals, be it in academics or personal projects, teaching them the value of persistence.