The Mouse in the Manger

Author: Johnny Boyd
Genre: Children/Christmas

​We all know the humbling story of Jesus' entry into our world, and lives. The adoring actions of those present that day gave us one of our most important holidays and the tradition of giving. There was one creature living in the stable that day whose story has never been told. The mouse. Every barn has one. What did he contribute? This is the story of The Mouse in the Manger and his determination to give the Baby Jesus a gift. What can you give when you are so little, and have so little? The greatest gift of all, of course.

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Reviewer: Margaret Welwood

“He has a present now.” (May, 4 years old)

As a young four-year-old, my granddaughter May appreciated the artwork and the story, which I told her rather than read word for word. This big coffee table book with stunning artwork drew her in immediately. Perhaps May’s favorite character was the cat; we enjoyed looking for the feline on different pages, and noting the remarkable difference in her demeanour when she heard the little drummer. And May, a truly kind-hearted little girl, appreciated the little boy’s and baby mouse’s plight—no gift for the Baby King.

I enjoyed sharing this very special story with May—the Christmas Story as experienced by the stable animals is not new, but The Mouse in the Manger is a new twist. “What shall I give the King?” is another common theme, here enhanced by both an original story, and art reflecting the majesty of that momentous night.
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It was a privilege to review this book, and it is a privilege to own it.

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