Two Mice
Since it came out last September, Two Mice has received a lot of attention, including the inclusion in four prestigious best-books-of-the-year lists:
And here’s what people think of the book (click on the links for the full reviews):
“Ruzzier’s surreal landscapes, personable animal characters, elegant story arc, and profound theme combine into something truly award-worthy here.” –Calling Caldecott
“There’s a lot of drama for a book about counting, but that’s not the only stunner. The world Ruzzier creates with his illustrations is so singular, so extraterrestrial that the pictures give the story a sci-fi vibe.” –The Boston Globe
“What a cute, clever way into number sense.” –The New York Times
“Expressive, mildly mischievous pen-and-ink illustrations in soft colors develop details and drama that the words leave out. (…) The book’s creative focus on pattern in plot leaves plenty of room for readers’ imaginations to play a strong role.” –The Horn Book (Starred review.)
“The simplicity of the text means that the earliest readers will soon be able to pick it up and will return to it over and over. One story. Two mice. Three cheers. Lots to love.” –Kirkus (Starred review.)
“A scintillating combination of danger and comfort.” –Publishers Weekly
“Sweetly satisfying.” —School Library Journal
“Two Mice is a brief master class in the picture book form.” –Nine Kinds of Pie
“The inventively undulating narrative structure, the sherbet-like color palette, fantastic tile floors, countless tiny visual surprises–and last but not least, the comfortingly resilient mouse friendship–make Two Mice a standout.” –Shelf Awareness
“A simple and simply lovely book. A sort-o- counting (well, one to three and back again) book and a tiny adventure story too. Absolutely charming.” –Monica Edinger
“Ruzzier’s counting book is a gem.” –Waking Brain Cells
“Using pen and ink and watercolors, Sergio Ruzzier assures a place on the Caldecott list this year (well, I think that should happen).” –Sal’s Fiction Addiction
“Two Mice is a tiny treasure waiting to be found over and over by readers.” –Librarian’s Quest
Read my interview with Julie Danielson at Seven Impossible Things Before Breakfast
Read my guest post on the making of the book on Elizabeth Dulemba’s blog.