By Leo Lionni
Alexander is a lonely little mouse that explores a child’s home for food. But instead of the crumbs he was searching for, he finds an unlikely friend- Willy the wind-up mouse. Alexander envies Willy for his comfortable situation in life as the child’s beloved toy. But after a long quest to become a toy mouse like his friend, Alexander learns that he is the lucky one. This is a well-crafted tale with strong plot development and imbedded moral lessons. While it has more written content than most books for this audience, it manages to hold a child’s attention with magical elements, rhyme and captivating images.
The illustrations are in classic Lionni style, with layers of bold patterns and vivid colors. Lionni, who died in 1999 at the age of 89, was the first artist to use this collage technique in children’s art. He originally stumbled onto the technique while entertaining his grandchildren on a long train ride. To keep their attention, he created illustrations using shapes torn from pages of magazines and a newspaper that he had on hand. The children’s delight at such simple and unique illustrations inspired him to create books that would earn him international acclaim.
Alexander and the Wind Up Mouse
is best suited for children three and older who can follow the development of a basic plot and have the necessary attention span to make it through over twenty pages of story. However, kids two and younger will still enjoy looking through the colorful pages.
is best suited for children three and older who can follow the development of a basic plot and have the necessary attention span to make it through over twenty pages of story. However, kids two and younger will still enjoy looking through the colorful pages. 
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