The synagogue was once a busy, bustling place, but now only ten old men come to tend it and pray each day. Then one day, a little scritch-scratch betrays the first new member in years: a tiny mouse who has taken up residence among the holy books. Of course, a trap must be set, but who will do it? Al volunteers, but in the morning the mouse is still there, and is just a little more appealing than he was before. Day after day, the men become more engaged, until the mouse has a bed, pictures on the wall, and a little carpet, not to mention all the treats the men bring. Then comes the biggest surprise of all. He is a she, giving the ten old men reason to celebrate with peach schnapps — and to plan a trip to the country where they find the perfect place to release their numerous charges. Back at the synagogue, fall turns to winter. The ten old men miss their mice until a little scritch-scratch returns.

Related: Canada, Fiction, Picture Book, Primary (ages 6-9)

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• ISBN: 9780887767166
• Author: Fagan, Cary
• Illustrator: Clement, Gary
• Published: 2007, Tundra Books
• Themes: Betrayal, celebration, season, Surprise
• Descriptors: Canada, Fiction, Picture Book, Primary (ages 6-9)
• No. of pages: 32