Little Mouse's Birthday Cake

The characteristically innovative Hurd ( Mama Don't Allow ; Little Mouse's Big Valentine ) here offers a disappointingly bland variation on a routine plot: a birthday that has apparently been forgotten is finally celebrated with a surprise party. After making phone calls to three friends who reveal that they all have plans for the day, unfazed Little Mouse decides to spend his birthday skiing--all alone. Whizzing down the mountain, the little fellow takes a tumble; when he comes to a stop, he has no idea where he has landed. His three pals, all on skis, come to his rescue and lead Little Mouse back to his house, where a cake and decorations await him. Although Hurd's pictures are typically whimsical, his text here lacks sparkle and the story seems to drag. Overall, this is a rather lackluster Little Mouse tale. Ages 3-6. (Jan.)