Author: PRYOR, BONNIE
Title: Louie & Dan Are Friends
Description: Morrow Junior Books. 1997. (ISBN: 9780688085605). Hardcover. Hardback no D/J in good condition, very minor scuffing to corners. 1997 1st Morrow Junior books edition. Illustrated by Elizabeth Miles. From School Library Journal - Kindergarten-Grade 2. Louie and Dan move out on their own: "Most of the time the two brothers were happy living together in their cozy home, even though Dan loved to go exploring and Louie was a stay-at-home sort of mouse." This difference in their personalities is at the heart of the story, and until the two learn how to communicate openly, their best efforts to please one another go awry. Pryor has a message in mind but she doesn't let it overwhelm the somewhat rambling, yet involving, story. The plot is nicely constructed, with minor characters providing contrast to the conflict between the two brothers. Miles's illustrations, done with watercolor pencil, are sweet and naturalistic at the same time. The soft colours favor a peculiar pumpkin-rust tone, but the artist's use of line and perspective are especially effective, and the mood of coziness (touched at times with humor, at other times with danger) is beautifully sustained. This long picture book would make a good read-aloud for primary-grade children who are exactly at an age when their interest in forming and maintaining relationships is intense. While not an essential purchase, this sequel to The Porcupine Mouse (Morrow, 1988) has charm and child appeal. Louie and Dan, the much-loved mouse brothers introduced in Bonnie Pryor's award-winning Porcupine Mouse, return with a new set of adventures! In their cozy house under the roots of an old maple tree, Dan helps with the housework to please tidy Louie and Louie goes exploring to satisfy adventurous Dan. Each wants to make the other happy, but their good intentions backfire..leaving two grouchy mice. It takes Mama Mouse's affectionate wisdom to show the brothers that each can do what he likes best and still love the other. Used: Acceptable.

Keywords: 9780688085605