Tumtum and Nutmeg
Recommended. Age: 9+. A Catholic review of this book for parents.
Our review
A cozy, funny book about two kind mice who serve a sad human family in secret and ask nothing back. That hidden generosity is the heart of it, and it is a lovely picture of charity. Nutmeg's quiet wisdom wins the day over a puffed-up general. The reservations are small: Nutmeg tells the children she is a fairy to keep her secret, and some mice smoke cigars and drink port.
For parents
Read aloud from 5, independent reading from 8. The peril is cartoon poison and a mouse charge, nothing grim. Nutmeg tells the children she is a fairy of sorts; say plainly that this is a fib to stay hidden. Ask why Tumtum and Nutmeg help the children without being thanked (Matthew 6:3-4).