I Wish I Had a Pet

This ordinary pet book is transformed by Rudy’s (The House That Mouse Built) beguiling handmade mice, which she poses and photographs in scenes made even more fetching with dozens of small props. That the pet-owners are small, pet-worthy mice is the source of many smiles. “Pick a pet that’s fun to care for,” Rudy advises, under a picture of a robin perched on a pencil eraser, its owner mouse holding a small pair of scissors to trim the bird’s claws. “Keep it clean,” she reminds readers as another mouse polishes the shell of its tortoise—with Turtle Wax, of course. “And when your pet makes a mess,” she continues, “clean up after it. Every time.” A full spread shows a small mouse holding its nose as it dashes after a caterpillar who’s leaving a trail of pellets behind. The layout is spare and elegant, and the typography clear and understated. With lots to look at on each page, readers have the chance to imagine what life would be like on an entirely different scale. Ages 4–8. Agent: Brenda Bowen, Sanford J. Greenburger Associates. (July)