The Very Noisy Night

Book Overview: "The Very Noisy Night" by Diana Hendry

Plot Summary: "The Very Noisy Night" is a children's picture book written by Diana Hendry and illustrated by Jane Chapman. The story revolves around two mice, Fretful Little Mouse and Big Mouse, who share a room. During the night, Little Mouse is plagued by the various sounds of the environment, such as the howling wind, hooting owl, and tapping branches. Each time, he fearfully imagines intruders, ghosts, or other scary entities. Big Mouse, who is patient and understanding, repeatedly climbs out of his bed to show Little Mouse the mundane source of the alarming sound. Despite his initial reluctance to let Little Mouse into his bed due to concerns about wiggling and cold paws, Big Mouse eventually relents when he sees his friend's loneliness. The book provides a soothing and reassuring tale that helps children explore their nighttime fears safely.

Key Themes:

1. Nighttime Fears: The book addresses common childhood fears associated with nighttime sounds, providing a relatable and reassuring narrative.
2. Friendship: The story highlights the patient and caring nature of Big Mouse towards his timid friend, showcasing the importance of friendship in overcoming fears.
3. Exploration: The book encourages children to explore their surroundings and understand the natural causes of nighttime noises, promoting curiosity and understanding.

Critical Reception:

• Publishers Weekly: The book is described as "a sweetly beguiling tale" that effectively addresses young children's fears, with Chapman's illustrations adding to the story's charm.
• Kirkus Reviews: The review praises Hendry's depiction of a young child's fears, noting that Big Mouse's patient explanations help assuage anxieties. The illustrations by Jane Chapman are also commended for setting imaginations soaring and showcasing the creative uses of household scraps by the mice.

Publication Details:

• Release Date: November 1, 1999
• Publisher: Dutton Children's Books
• ISBN: 0-525-46261-9

Overall, "The Very Noisy Night" is a heartwarming and educational tale that helps children navigate their nighttime fears, while also celebrating the bond of friendship and the power of understanding.