Ten Old Men and a Mouse

This delightful picture book tells the story of ten old men who come to pray at the synagogue every morning and evening. One day, a mouse takes up residence among the holy books. What should the men do? After a half-hearted attempt to catch the mouse, the men begin to enjoy their new pet. After all, they haven't had a new member for thirty-five years! They coddle the mouse until one day they realize that he is a she, who has given birth to ten babies. The men release the mouse family into the country, but soon miss their pet. Not to worry. The mother mouse returns to the synagogue, ready to take up her cozy life once more. This gentle story of loneliness and friendship strikes an honest chord. Each old man is depicted as an individual, who might be someone's "zayde" going to "daven" at the old "shul". Who has not seen a nearly abandoned synagogue in the city's downtown core? The watercolor illustrations by Gary Clement complement the text with plenty of humorous details. Ten Old Men and a Mouse is sure to enchant young and old alike. Ages 4-7.

Cary Fagan's TEN OLD MEN AND A MOUSE tells of ten old men who come to pray and look after the synagogue daily - but when a little mouse arrives, they take extra special care, having something live to care for. One day the mouse provides them with a present - and that's where the trouble begins. This gentle story receives Gary Clement's vivid illustrations and a fine tale with a warm ending.