Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
by Robert C. O’Brien
Mrs. Frisby is widowed field mouse who is used to a quiet life. When her son Timothy comes down with pneumonia she becomes desperate to save him and is thrown into an unexpected adventure.
Soon Mrs. Frisby’s path leads her to a group of former laboratory rats that live on the same farm that she does. Their leader, Nicodemus, explains their history and then must decide if they’ll help her in her quest.
This was one of my absolute favorite books growing up. I think I was in about 2nd grade the first time I read it and I was hooked. We are sucked into a fascinating world of animals with human intelligence, yet the author keeps it firmly grounded in reality, with a believable explanation for everything.
The book won the Newbery Award in 1972 and author’s daughter later wrote two sequels, Racso and the Rats of NIMH and R-T, Margaret and the Rats of NIMH. I read the two sequels as a kid. Neither is as good as the original, but I just couldn’t get enough of the story.
If you haven’t read this one, than I’m bummed, because I’m sure it’s much better if you’re a kid. But I still think you should pick it up and read it. Then eventually you can pass it along to another young reader.
Side Note: I saw the animated movie version when I was young. I wasn’t impressed. It adds unnecessary magical elements to the story, which just detracts from the plot.
7 comments:
I like the cover image you used in your post. It's different than the one I've seen (which is also nice).
Definitely have to introduce this one to my son (he is in 1st grade right now)!
This is one of the few books I remember loving as a child. I am tempted to re-read, but am worried I'll spoil the wonderful memories.
Maybe I'd like the book better than the movie then, because I remember not liking the movie when I was a kid.
farmlanebooks - I worry about that too with my favorites.
Alyce - The book is worlds better!
I love books with animals in them. This one seems a lot of fun. I will definitely read it!
Great review! I didn't know the author's daughter wrote those sequels. My kids will totally want to read them, even if they aren't as strong.
Post a Comment