Booklist Reviews : Booklist Monthly Selections - #1 May 2000 Ages 4^-7. Augustus John Town Mouse invites readers to visit his home and observe life a century ago in the town house where he lives with his father, mother, sister, brother, nanny, butler, cook, and parlor maid. Double-page spreads carry fully illustrated introductions to topics such as the schoolroom, the nursery, and bath time. Ostensibly a tour of the house, this arrangement actually opens into larger topics of daily life such as education, entertainment, and hygiene. Full of lively details, the ink-and-watercolor illustrations of the mice in their beautifully appointed house provide a cozy, nostalgic view of times. First published in England, this picture book translates well as representative of a wealthy American household 100 years ago. ((Reviewed May 1, 2000))Copyright 2000 Booklist Reviews
Horn Book Guide Reviews : Horn Book Guide Reviews 2000 Fall Augustus John Town Mouse, a mouse from the year 1900, describes his family's home and lifestyle. He introduces his family and the servants and then chronicles the activities that go on during the day (including studying with the governess, Miss Algebra). Small, detailed illustrations, many of which are labeled, show the household items commonly used during the Victorian era. Copyright 2000 Horn Book Guide Reviews
School Library Journal Reviews : SLJ Reviews 2000 May K-Gr 3-A meticulously illustrated and simply written picture book about how people lived in the past. Augustus John Town Mouse takes readers on a tour of his house and describes the occupants (his parents, siblings, and servants) as well as a typical day, including what they wear, eat, and do for entertainment. Most pages have a central illustration in soft pastel colors surrounded by small pictures of things that relate to the larger subject. A center picture of Mama dressing with the help of her maid is circled by pictures of her hand mirror, pitcher and basin, curling tongs, rings, violet water, wrinkle cream, corset, and bloomers, all depicted with accurate and loving detail. Children will enjoy discussing the contrast between Augustus John's life and theirs, and will also delight in poring over the delicate, old-fashioned illustrations. Although the lifestyle portrayed pertains more to upper-class English life than to the life of most Americans at the time, the book is unique and offers a good perspective on a bygone era.-Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.
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