The Story of Jumping Mouse: A Caldecott Honor Award Winner

John Steptoe's 40-page illustrated version of The Story of Jumping Mouse is a Native American legend of a Magic Frog who gives his jumping legs to a discouraged young mouse that had recently set out on a quest -- a journey to a far-off land. The frog also tells Jumping Mouse to remember three words -- "never lose hope." Rejuvenated and able to travel much more quickly, Jumping Mouse continues on his journey. On the way he encounters a fat mouse who invites him to stay with him the rest of his life in a safe haven. But Jumping Mouse is determined to continue his quest and later discovers his acquaintance is eaten by a snake. When his journey brings him to a vast prairie Jumping Mouse is surprised to meet a lonely buffalo just standing there. Upon inquiry, he learns that the buffalo is blind, so Jumping Mouse imitates Magic Frog by giving his eyes sight to a blind buffalo and the buffalo leads him across the prairie on his back. At the end of the prairie the buffalo can go no further and Jumping Mouse recalls Magic Frog's words, "never lose hope" and thus journeys animal that identifies himself as a fox that can't smell. Jumping Mouse tries his magic once more and is able to give the fox his nose. The fox, delighted at his cure, accompanies Jumping Mouse through the forest. But as the forest ends at the foot of a mountain and the fox can not go any further, Jumping Mouse goes to sleep in despair in the face of this seemingly hopeless barrier to his goal. Suddenly Magic Frog appears again and tells Jumping Mouse to jump as high as he can and remember his words, "never lose hope." He gathers his courage, leaps as high as he can, and discovers himself soaring over the mountain as Magic Frog below shouts out Jumping Mouse's new name -- "Eagle." This is a wonderful story to teach children about Hope, Determination, Sacrifice, Hardship, and Compassion.

I'm a teacher and I have read this book with great personal enthusiasm to lots of kids, and I have to tell you that they are not all that enamoured with it. It is a story with a deep meaning that kids usually don't "get" and are not necessarily ready for at a young age. The subtle plot and pictures doen't seem to hold younger kid's interest and attention. Now, having said that, I absolutely love this book and find that many adults do too. I was first introduced to the "Jumping Mouse" story in my twenties, (20 years ago), and it literally changed my life. It is a very moving tale about spiritual seeking and spiritual growth, really about life's journey itself. The illustrations in this book are unique and gorgeous. A nice book to give as a gift to friends who are spiritually oriented and like Native American perspectives. Some kids may like the book, especailly those who are interested in the themes presented. Could be used as a teaching book for kids and adults in a spiritual setting, but I don't recommend it as a fun kids' read-aloud.

A neighbor gave me this book to read, because she knew I loved childrens books. It gave me goosebumps; I had to call my mother and read it to her. This book is about persevering in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles, about the power of dreaming and the power of faith and the power of effort. It is an incredible adaptation of Native Americans belief and ways. I give copies of this book to everyone whom I love: child or adult.

This children's book is a retelling of a Great Plains Indian tale about a mouse who travels far to see a beautiful land and how, despite misfortune, through his courage, strength , and selflessness, he is successful. The book was a 1985 Caldecott Honor book (i.e., a runner-up to the Medal winner) for best illustrations in a book for children.

This is a book that children will adore but which grownups will keep in their heart forever. We all aspire to pursue our goals with such innocence & strength as did Jumping Mouse; we all hope we are the heart-guided friend he was time after time and that our passion for such selflessness will be so richly rewarded