Clarice the Brave

This novel is an adventure story about two sibling mice who are separated when a mutiny on their ship forces them apart; they must survive and are driven by courage, tenacity, critical thinking, and luck as they try to be reunited. The central storyline about a new and unexpected friendship between the mouse and a cat may engage intermediate-level readers and invite discussions in the classroom about collaboration and the foundations for a friendship. Lending itself well as a whole-class novel study or in smaller groups, the creative and critical thinking used by the animal characters could encourage discussions about core competencies. The blend of first-person and third-person narratives could also prompt helpful discussions with young writers.