Builder Mouse: a Story of Friendship, Creativity, and the Fine Art of Compromise, written by Sofia Eldarova, reviewed by Klaudia Janek

Student Reviewer: Maya S.
Summary: The story follows a mouse named Edgar who uses various food items to construct masterful pieces of architecture. Edgar’s best friend Toby admires his works of art, but always ends up eating them. Whether it’s salami, cake, beans, or any other food, Toby always eats it. Upset by the destruction of his masterpieces, Edgar leaves Toby behind to find another place to build his structures. He tries setting up in the subway, a restaurant, and an art museum. However, Edgar questions his decisions and has to figure out how to navigate the world in order to preserve his art. This book is a story of friendship, creativity, and compromise. Emerging readers will truly enjoy the vibrant images within the storybook, along with the wonderful element of friendship throughout.

Straight Talk for Librarians: The storybook is valuable for libraries due to its bright, colorful pictures that will be sure to attract readers. There are a lot of warm tones with the book, along with distinctly recognizable images. With food as the subject of the story, engagement from the reader is ensured as food attracts readers of all ages, but especially emerging readers. The adorable little mice combined with the satisfying images of food will capture the readers’ attention instantly. Edgar is very creative and may inspire creativity in some of the readers who read this book.. The story is fitting for independent reading in libraries and classrooms. The themes of friendship and creativity are heavily apparent within this book, allowing the reader to leave with a new understanding. Edgar and Toby have a complex, but endearing relationship that will surely teach the readers about true friendships within life. Older readers may get a chuckle out of Edgars full name - Edgar Camembert. There are many other fun details in the illustrations that are just waiting to be discovered.