Marathon Mouse
Amy Dixon, Author
Sam Denlinger, Illustrator
Sky Pony Press, Fiction, 2012
Suitable for Ages: 4 and up
Themes: Pursue your dreams, New York City Marathon, Mice, Running, Determination
Opening: “Every New York City mouse dreamed of living under the bridge between Brooklyn and Staten Island. They didn’t have to dodge taxicabs or escape hungry sewer cats…But there was one day each year that their life under the bridge was not so dreamy…Marathon day!”
Synopsis: Most of the New York City mice thought Marathon Day was the worst day of the year because they had to be careful they wouldn’t get stepped on. Everyone except Preston, who dreamed of running the big marathon. Preston wanted to be extraordinary. His papa told him that “mice scamper, not run.” So he started training for the marathon in secret. When the day arrived he got up early and lined up with all the big sneakers. The starting gun sounded and he began to run and run and run! As he reached the last few miles he started to stumble and his body ached. But an unexpected surprise awaited him at the end.
Why I like this book: Amy Dixon wrote a charming book that carries a big message for children – pursue your dreams. The story is fun, inspiring and engaging. Children will cheer Preston to the finish line. Sam Denlinger’s illustrations are colorful and lively. I love how the cover shows such confidence in Preston’s face. My favorite illustration is Preston at the starting line looking at a sea of over-sized sneakers and hoping he doesn’t get squashed. This is a very clever idea for a book! I don’t believe I’ve seen a picture book about a marathon! Kudos to the author for creating a fun read for children. And, this is a great book for parents to use to encourage their young ones to run and exercise. Teacher’s can check out a discussion guide here. Visit Amy Dixon’s website for more information.
Mar 04, 2013 @ 06:12:20
I LOVE this book, Pat! So well done. The ending is so perfect, and the message is one kids can never hear enough
Mar 04, 2013 @ 10:58:11
Susanna, I really loved the story and the message. Such a unique book.
Mar 04, 2013 @ 11:41:29
Thanks for the lovely review, Pat! So glad you enjoyed it. And thanks Susanna, for being such an amazing cheerleader for Preston. I appreciate you both!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 13:00:54
Such a fun and original story to review, Amy. I gave the book to my great granddaughter for Christmas and she just loved it!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 12:00:27
Love the message–pursue your dreams!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 13:03:21
Kids need to have dreams and that really stands out in Marathon Mouse. Great message! Thanks for commenting Coleen.
Mar 04, 2013 @ 13:42:26
I adore this picture book. Preston is my hero in so many ways. Thanks for the review, Pat!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 13:45:35
Joanna, with your interest in marathon running, I can see how Preston is your hero!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 16:22:21
I love this book! The message is so important, and it’s presented in such a great way! Great choice, Pat.
Mar 04, 2013 @ 17:20:58
Genevieve, yes it is an entertaining book with a valuable message for kids I love Amy’s story about finding a publisher and an agent. She certainly inspires me not to give up.
Mar 04, 2013 @ 16:35:39
Pursue, children are taught fear instead of courage to. “go for it,” to realise their full potential. I am a great believed in this,
Mar 04, 2013 @ 17:22:19
Niamh, this is a very encouraging book for children to realize their full potential. I appreciate your comments. I just fell in love with the story and message!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 17:24:20
This looks so cute! I love anything with a “pursue your dreams” type of theme! Such a great message for everyone, but even better to learn it while they’re young!
Mar 04, 2013 @ 17:51:17
Leigh, it is a cute story! Yes, I agree with you — great to learn to dream while you are young.
Mar 05, 2013 @ 17:08:31
I LOVE the cover and opening! I MUST get this book!
Mar 05, 2013 @ 17:30:23
Erik, yes the cover is really great. Makes you want to read the book right away. Love the message for kids.
Mar 06, 2013 @ 00:56:18
What a great cover! That Preston looks like quite a hero! I’ll have to check this out and see how he does in his marathon! I hope he doesn’t get stepped on!
Mar 06, 2013 @ 13:42:50
You will love this little hero. Amy has done such an outstanding job with his character and the plot. Loads of fun!