It’s been a while since I’ve picked up a good animal adventure story. Knowing the work of Lisa McMann, I expected to enjoy reading Clarice the Brave. That said, the story went well beyond my expectations and I found myself totally rapt in the last third of the book—worried about the turn of events—and not able to put the book down.
Without giving anything away, I can tell you the story has a satisfying ending, but it is not just a sweet little tale of two mice. Readers will learn about life at sea as well as the trials of being a small mouse. Be prepared for the harse realities of life on board a ship and the perils of mutiny. This story is definitely middle grade. Younger children may find it overly intense.
Antonio Javier Caparo’s illustrations are both beautiful and immersive. They add even more depth to McMann writing.
Grade 3 – 7 Ages 8 – 12
Though already available in hardcover and eBook form, this book comes out in paperback February 7, 2023.
Learn more here…
