Review: A Mouse Called Julian

Julian is independent, he lives alone by choice and prefers his own company - it’s safer and easier and it has been like that for quite a long time.

You see Julian is a mouse and everytime he ventures above ground animals attempt to eat him. Below ground, where he lives all the animals seem to get in his way.

It takes practice and talent to avoid rabbits and moles, finding the secret hiding spots from the farmer and her dog and even knowing which branch to leap across to escape the hungry barn owl. 

Julian has performed these manoeuvres time and time again. But little does he know that someone is watching his every move.

One night, when Julian is tucked up fast asleep and uninvited guest crashes into his home. Bolting upright, he discovers the head of a crafty fox with razor sharp teeth who would love to eat him if he wasn’t stuck in his house.

Amazingly, even though the fox desperately wants to eat him, Julian shares a meal with the fox and eventually helps him get free.

Julian once again ventures outside and almost makes it home safely. That is until he misses the secret branch and the hungry barn owl has him in her sights. But lurking also is the crafty fox . . .

Will the fox rescue his new friend Julian and save him from the owl or eat him for dinner himself?

Author Joe Todd-Stanton shines a light on loneliness and the benefits of friendship even between two unlikely animals. The illustrations are dark and menacing further depicting the essence of loneliness and showcasing Julian’s life. But also, how the shadows can be overcome by discovering the joys of happiness and friendship.

Title: A Mouse Called Julian

Author & Illustrator: Joe Todd-Stanton

Publisher: Flying Eye Books, $24.99
Publication Date: 1 July 2019

Format: Hardback
ISBN:  9781912497065
For ages: 2 - 6
Type: Picture Book