I'm not typically big on stories with mice or insects, but Mona the Mouse is sweet, cute, and have a quiet strength that inspires readers to look beyond the physical, but see the person inside. A story of courage and the true meaning of home, it will be a favorite for kids young and old. What a sweet and adorable story Heartwood Hotel: A True Home by Kallie George is!! The illustrations by Stephanie Graegin adds a bit to the story in a visual way for young readers. 'Sleep in safety, eat in earnest, and be happy at Heartwood.' (15) It was hanging around his neck from a ribbon that was tattered and maybe a little bloody.' She could see the one - Gnarl - who was wearing the moles' badge. Moonlight glanced off sharp teeth and eyes yellow like fire.

Some pacing, some lying down, licking their paws. They're tastiest' one wolf remarks, thinking of a future feast.

I think Kallie George has a way with words and manages to tell a story that feels full in a short amount of ink. It's so cute! Beds filled with cattail fluff, acorn hats brimming with soup-if you love little whimsical miniature worlds and nature, you'll probably love the story. I adore the idea of a hotel in the woods run by and for the little creatures of the forest. Mona is courageous and kind, and a charming protagonist. I mean, I do get that wolves are the foes of the little creatures of the forest, I just wish they weren't always the villains! I'll put examples below.)īut, overall, it's a very sweet story about friendship, bravery and belonging. The synopsis and the adorable illustrations made me think this might be a pretty tame story (and overall it certainly is!) but if you have sensitive children do be aware that a few of the main characters have lost family members in tragic circumstances (in the past, and off page) and and that the wolves are the 'bad guys' here (again!? sigh. You see, the story follows mostly the small creatures of the forest and, as such, many either live in fear of the carnivores or have already had frightening encounters with them. Dare I say, cuddly? Yet, it has some bite.

Heartwood hotel a true home