If I could, I would rate this book 2.5 stars. I think I had high expectations for this one, and unfortunately, the story just did not measure up. Fredle the mouse's adventure is cute, but the plot and writing style lacked energy somehow...I never found myself 'hooked' by the story.

Fredle and his family are kitchen mice, and they live by certain rules. One unfortunate day, Fredle breaks one of the rules and is pushed out of the nest. He winds up alone in a new and wondrous place: outside. The story follows Fredle as he journeys to discover all he can about the world, himself, and where it is he best fits in.

The beginning of this book is well-done, with plenty of character development and action. However, as the story progressed, I found myself losing interest time and time again. Although Fredle is a well-developed and introspective character, he could not save a lackluster and uneven plot. This is not to say there are not high points within this tale (like Fredle's interactions with other mice and with Sadie the dog), but overall, I think I just wanted more from this book in terms of a plot. I would recommend this book to children ages 9/10 and up who really enjoy reading books with animals as main characters. Overall, a 'just okay' read.