The true hero of this story is Mrs. Frisby, a mother on a quest to save her home and her son. Younger children will be enthralled by the story of the rats and their brave and loyal attempt to help rescue young Timothy from certain death. But the real beauty of the story is in the tension the author shows between a life built around technology and one lived with purpose. The rats want a meaningful existence, relying on themselves and their ability to use their knowledge to work hard and build a new life for themselves. Can they do so while letting go of the creature comforts they’ve come to rely on? What happens when a small group abandons the others to maintain their life of luxury and ease? The author’s story and lessons inspire us to look deeper into the purpose of our life. Is it to collect the good things of this life? Or can we be challenged to consider that a meaningful life comes only with the search for knowledge and wisdom? This book earns our Gold Star.

Mindful Muslim Reader may not necessarily recommend all books in this series/collection.