The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail facts for kids
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| Author | Richard Peck |
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| Illustrator | Kelly Murphy |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's |
| Publisher | Dial |
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Publication date
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2013 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 256 |
| ISBN | 978-0142425305 |
| Preceded by | Secrets at Sea |
The Mouse with the Question Mark Tail is an exciting children's novel from 2013. It was written by Richard Peck and has lovely pictures by Kelly Murphy. This book is set in the same world as another story called Secrets at Sea. It's a great read for kids aged 12-15.
The story takes place in Victorian England, a time when Queen Victoria ruled. It follows a brave little mouse who wants to find out where he came from. He decides to ask Queen Victoria herself for answers!
Contents
The Story of Mouse Minor
This adventure begins in London, England. Our main character is a small white mouse known as Mouse Minor. He lives in the Royal Mews, which are the stables right next to Buckingham Palace.
Mouse Minor doesn't know who his parents are. He feels like he has a "question mark tail" because he's so curious about his past. He decides to go on a big journey to discover his true family. His quest leads him to the grand Buckingham Palace itself. He hopes to meet the human Queen Victoria and get some answers.
Along his journey, Mouse Minor meets many different characters. Some are helpful, and some are not so kind. He faces challenges and learns important lessons about courage and friendship. He also discovers secrets about the mouse world that lives hidden from humans.
Mouse Minor's Journey
Mouse Minor's adventure takes him through different parts of the royal grounds.
The Royal Mews
This is where Mouse Minor lives. It's a busy place with many mice. Here, Mouse Minor goes to school and learns about the world. He also deals with some bullies.
The Royal Park
Mouse Minor ventures into the large park surrounding the palace. He meets new friends and faces new dangers. This part of his journey is full of surprises.
The Royal Palace
Finally, Mouse Minor makes it inside the grand palace. This is where he hopes to find Queen Victoria. He must be very careful to avoid humans and other creatures. He learns about the royal mouse family and his own surprising connection to them.
Main Characters
- Mouse Minor/Prince Ludovic: He is the main character of the story. He is a white mouse born in London. He lives near Buckingham Palace and wants to find out about his family.
- Yeomice: He is the brave Captain of the Guard for Mouse Minor’s father.
- Aunt Marigold: She is Mouse Minor’s kind aunt.
- The Mouse Queen: She is the queen of all the mice in the United Kingdom. She is also Mouse Minor’s grandmother.
- Queen Victoria: She is the human Queen of the United Kingdom. In the book, she is celebrating her Diamond Jubilee.
- Fitzherbert and Trevor: These two mice are bullies who bother Mouse Minor.
- The Mouse Princess: She is the Mouse Queen's daughter and Mouse Minor's mother. She passes away shortly after Mouse Minor is born.
Awards and Recognition
This book has received several awards and been recognized on many "best of" lists.
Best Book Lists
- 2014: 3x3 Magazine Annual No.11 3x3 Picture Book Show (Honorable Mention)
- 2013: Notable Children’s Books, The New York Times
- 2013: Best Books for Children, Kirkus Reviews
- 2013: Ten Best Books for Children, People Magazine
Illustration Awards
The amazing illustrations by Kelly Murphy also won awards.
- 2014: The Illustrators 56 Travel Show
- 2013: Society of Illustrators 56th Annual Competition (Book Category)
- 2013: Original Art, Society of Illustrators
- 2013: Gold Medal (Children's Market Category), Society of Illustrators of Los Angeles
