#Booky100Keepers Day 44: "Hermelin the Detective Mouse" by Mini Grey (Red Fox Picture Books)

Oddly enough, I realised that we rather daftly had no Mini Grey books on our shelves except one - a book that has been returned to again and again, a favourite story that's as warm and cuddly and satisfying as curling up in a cosy cheese box at the end of a busy and stressful day.

"Hermelin The Detective Mouse" is just brilliant, building a story within the first few page spreads for observant kids who love picking out exquisite detail in illustrations that later contributes to (and in fact becomes a core part of) the story itself.

Hermelin is a mouse. Not just any mouse but a detective mouse who knows (and secretly looks after) all the people who live around Offley Street.

They're a strange and eclectic lot, but when several of their prized possessions go missing, it's time for Hermelin to swing into action and solve this tricky case.

Mini brings in elements of acceptance as the book begins to wind down, and the residents of Offley Street realise just who is responsible for restoring their beloved items - reacting with horror that a mouse, a MOUSE no less, could be the one to save the day. Only one little girl realises that it doesn't matter who you are or what you are, you're still a worthy soul - so Hermelin discovers a brand new friend, and perhaps even a partner for the next detective adventure.

We were very lucky to meet Mini once, busy with a fab workshop encouraging kids to make their own dioramas based around one of her fabulous books, and she was as warm, charming and brilliant to talk to as you'd wish - and made C feel like the most important person in the room, despite how busy she was. We've loved her books over the years (Traction Man was a particular fave series, and Biscuit Bear is also just SOOOO good!) so have included a few of the other review links below - but for us Hermelin is the cream cheese champion of the lot, and a worthy keeper.

Original Review Links: 

ReadItDaddy's First Book of the Week - Week Ending 28th March 2014 - "Hermelin - The Detective Mouse" by Mini Grey (Jonathan Cape PB Ltd)

Egg Drop by Mini Grey (Red Fox Picture Books)

Traction Man and the Beach Odyssey by Mini Grey (Red Fox Picture Books)

Traction Man Meets Turbodog by Mini Grey (Red Fox Picture Books)

Traction Man is Here! by Mini Grey (Red Fox Picture Books)

The Adventures of the Dish and the Spoon

Biscuit Bear