Pistes d'exploration

Discuss why the mouse came back. What comparisons can you draw between the mouse’s life and your own?

Script a conversation between one of the old men and his wife, arguing whether the mouse should continue living in the synagogue or not.

Write the story from the point of view of the mouse.

Rewrite all or part of the text as a Reader's Theatre. Perform it using expressive voices.

Discuss why you think the mouse came back. What comparisons can you draw between the mouse’s life and your life?

Script a conversation between one of the old men and his wife, arguing whether the mouse should continue living in the synagogue or not.

Retell the story from the point of view of the mouse.

Using a Venn diagram, compare the mouse’s two homes: city and country. Discuss the differences with a partner.

Town Mouse, Country Mouse

Mots-clés

Picture book , compassion , human-animal relationships , Jewish culture , mice , pets

Commentaire descriptif

Ten old men come daily to pray and look after their synagogue, which has seen busier days. When they discover a mouse in the cupboard, they resolve to trap it. Not being a practical group, and also being tender-hearted, they end up caring for the mouse instead. Dialogue plays a huge role in the nuance and humour of this story: “‘I guess it won’t hurt to have one mouse in the synagogue,’ said Gabe. ‘After all, every life is sacred.’ ‘Besides,’ said Saul, ‘he’s the first new member we’ve had in thirty-five years.’” This lengthier book is great for reading aloud. Comical pen sketches, filled with attractive colour wash, add whimsy. Children will delight in the illustrations showing the old men trying to catch all the mouse’s children with a colander, a teapot and a rubber boot. The old men bring the mouse and her children to the country, but soon the mouse returns, alone. “‘Don’t worry,’ Saul said. ‘You’ll hear from your kids again. You know when? When they need something.’” Funny and sweet, this book is enjoyable for readers of all ages.