Loudmouse

A mouse named Mary begins shouting at unexpected times, causing chaos in her household and neighborhood. Her parents seek help from doctors and specialists to understand her condition. Mary's loud outbursts affect her daily life, school experiences, and relationships with other mice in the community. The family must navigate various situations while trying to manage her unique trait. The mice community's reactions provide commentary on difference, acceptance, and finding one's place in the world. Through Mary's journey, the book explores how perceived limitations can transform into strengths.

There are not enough internet reviews to create a summary of this book. Instead, here is a summary of reviews of Richard Wilbur's overall work: Readers appreciate Wilbur's clarity and accessibility, noting his ability to make complex ideas understandable through precise language and traditional forms. Many online reviews mention his poems feel "grounded" while tackling philosophical themes. Readers highlight: - Technical mastery of rhyme and meter - Focus on everyday observations - Balance of intellectual depth with readability - Strong nature imagery - Quality of his Molière translations Common criticisms: - Some find his style too formal or reserved - Lack of emotional intensity compared to contemporaries - Limited range of subjects and themes On Goodreads, his collections average 4.2/5 stars across 2,500+ ratings. "New and Collected Poems" receives particular praise for its comprehensive view of his work. Amazon reviews (300+) average 4.5/5 stars, with readers often commenting on his poems' teachability and memorability. One reader noted: "Wilbur proves formal poetry can feel fresh without sacrificing craft." Another wrote: "His work rewards multiple readings - each time reveals new layers."

Stuart Little by E. B. White A mouse navigates life in a human family while pursuing adventure and friendship in New York City.

The Mouse and the Motorcycle by Beverly Cleary A mouse discovers he can operate a toy motorcycle by making engine noises, leading to escapades throughout a hotel.

The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo A small mouse defies the expectations of his community to embark on a quest to save a human princess.

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien A mouse widow seeks help from laboratory-enhanced rats to save her family's home from destruction.

The Cricket in Times Square by George Selden A country cricket forms bonds with a mouse and cat in a New York subway station while sharing his gift of music.

🐭 Richard Wilbur wrote "Loudmouse" in 1963 as one of his rare ventures into children's literature, despite being primarily known as a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet for his adult works. 📚 The book's illustrations were created by Don Almquist, who used bold, simple designs in black, white, and yellow - a striking choice for children's literature of that era. 🎭 The story's theme of finding one's voice parallels Wilbur's own journey as a poet, as he was known for maintaining traditional poetic forms during a time when many poets were abandoning them. 🏆 The book was published during a period when Wilbur served as the Poetry Consultant to the Library of Congress (now known as the U.S. Poet Laureate), a prestigious position he held from 1963-1964. 🖋️ The rhythmic, metered text in "Loudmouse" demonstrates Wilbur's mastery of language, as he successfully adapted his sophisticated poetic style for young readers without losing its musicality.