A delightful original story is rooted in the French tradition of the Tooth Mouse, who gives French children money in exchange for their baby teeth when they fall out. When the Tooth Mouse announces she is ready to retire, she holds a contest to choose her successor. Sophie is the youngest of the mice competing, trying to show she is brave, honest, and wise. And she proves herself the most worthy, particularly when it comes to the last of three tasks: Come up with a plan for what to do with all the collected baby teeth. Susan Hood’s fresh tale is sprinkled with French words and phrases and sparkles with charm, as do Janice Nadeau’s delicate pencil and watercolor illustrations. The back end papers include a list of “tooth traditions” in various countries. (Ages 4–8)

In this charming picture book written by Susan Hood, the Tooth Mouse (who replaces the Tooth Fairy in French-speaking countries) has called a meeting to announce her retirement. ?I am not as spry as I used to be ... I have decided it is time to name my successor!? she tells the surprised crowd. Sophie, an energetic and very tiny mouse, desperately wants the job. ?C'est moi!? Sophie thinks. ?Choose me! Choose me!? But the position of Tooth Mouse --- or La Petite Souris --- isn't just given to anyone; it must be earned by participating in a difficult and dangerous three-part contest to determine which of all the mouse applicants is the most brave, honest and wise. Will Sophie, the smallest and daintiest of the aspirants, manage to beat the odds and win the challenging competition for her dream job?

In the style of a classic fable, this gentle yet inspiring story is sure to captivate young children with the delightful idea of a small mouse making her way under the pillows of sleeping children at night instead of the Tooth Fairy. It also provides an irresistible and uplifting message that size doesn't have to determine who succeeds in life. Award-winning artist Janice Nadeau's lovely illustrations in soft, muted colors add a delicate whimsy to the tale. This book would be a fantastic read-aloud for any storytime. Sprinkled with French expressions and phrases throughout, it would make a terrific introduction to foreign languages as well.