What Bird Heard: A Kids Book About Following Your Dreams for Ages 4-8

by Tricia Gardella, Ginger Nielson (Illustrator)

Mouse's first try at traveling to the moon has failed.

But Mouse hasn't given up and gets help from other animal friends on the farm. What happens if the rocket they are building doesn't make it to the moon?

His friend, Bird, tells him about a wonderful place called the Library that is filled with information.

Could this new place help Mouse to fulfill his travel dreams?

Kindle Edition

Published May 16, 2023

Reviews

[Jenni · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars
Have you ever gazed up at the moon and imagined what it would be like to set foot on its surface? I know I have, and so has Mouse, the intrepid little character in this enchanting children's picture book story.
This beautifully illustrated tale is brought to life with vibrant, eye-catching pictures that capture the wonder of adventure. It follows an adventurous mouse who dreams of exploring the moon, and those who join him on a whimsical journey filled with excitement and discovery.
Join him as he encounters new challenges and makes unforgettable discoveries in his quest to explore the stars!

[Erin Dodson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Bird Heard: A Kids Book About Following Your Dreams for Ages 4-8 by Tricia Gardella

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I just love Tricia Gardella's children's books. What Bird Heard did not disappoint. This book is about a mouse who just wants to travel and see the world. Mouse decides he wants to go to the moon and with the help from his farm friends they build a rocket ship. But they run into the problem of not having rocket fuel. Bird mentions that he has seen much of the country due to his annual migrations and had heard that there is a place with a beautiful garden called a library that could take Mouse to all sorts of different places. Mouse makes the journey to the library and finds a book open on the floor. He finds a place he wants to go, but we won't know until the next installment of Mouse gets to see the special place from the book. This book sets a great example for children to learn of the many adventures and places to go through books. I love that it helps to show children how magical reading can be at a young age.



View all my reviews

[Shannen · Rating 5 out of 5]

My family and I have loved each book we have picked up by this author, and this one is no different! My kiddos are a little older than the target audience at 9 and 13, but we still had fun with this. We are also big travelers, so it was particularly interesting to see how Mouse was trying to get set up to travel. I loved how Bird let Mouse know that they don’t have to travel to the moon to see new things because there are so many here in our country. We also love that the library was referenced because libraries are definitely places that shouldn’t be forgotten! There is also some rhyming in the book which was fun because it was just sprinkled in and not forced into every sentence. The illustrations are so cute and really add depth to the story, especially for younger ones. We’re excited to see what other adventures they get up to because the author has certainly painted a vivid picture of some incredible journeys to come!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

What Bird Heard is the second book in the Mouse Traveler series by Tricia Gardella. This story continues Mouse’s adventure we started in Book #1, as he searches to find a way to fly to the moon. And again, Bird is there to offer some sage advice.
As with the first book, this was such a fun little story book that my grandchildren just adored. The pictures are very cute, colourful, and engaging- which made the fun little adventure come to life. They loved the first book, and this continuing story made them excited to see what else Mouse and his friends might get up to in future instalments.
An engaging, fun, imaginative, and enjoyable children’s picture book.
Looking forward to the next instalment in this fun series, as well as whatever else Tricia Gardella does next.
Highly recommended.
Happy Reading!

[Anna Hirsch · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Bird Heard by Tricia Gardella
4 Stars

Mouse and Bird, the charming duo from Gardella’s Traveler series, attempt another audacious adventure: this time, reaching the moon—not in a makeshift airplane like before, but with a homemade rocket! As they rally the farm animals to help, they face a big question: where will they get fuel? Their efforts fall short, but the journey leads to a wonderful discovery—rich experiences on Earth—and the realization that dreams can evolve even when they don’t go as planned . It is filled with colourful illustrations that will capture a child’s attention. The story will teach children about teamwork, problem solving and seeing things from a new perspective when ideas don’t pan out. This is a great addition to the author’s Traveler series.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Bird Heard is the 2nd book in the Mouse Traveler series. When I looked it up, it seems there are a lot of cute stories coming soon, or already out- where Mouse visits different National Parks. This is such a fun idea. This particular book sort of lays the groundwork for those series. Mouse and his friends build a rocket to travel to the moon. But then they worry it won't fly, and have to modify their plans for Mouse to travel. Bird suggests he check out the library, hoping all the books can help him. The story is cute, and has a lot of team work and helpful friends. The illustrations are colorful and cute. There is a little rhyming in the book, but not so much that it is forced. The book ends a little bit on a cliff hanger, which I have never seen in a children’s book. I look forward to more books to see where Mouse travels.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Mouse's second attempt to go to the Moon…and it end's just like the first one. But Mouse's friend, Bird, doesn't give up on Mouse's dream to travel. He tells Mouse about this wonderfully magical place called the library where you can travel anywhere you want to go. Mouse is skeptical but he agrees to try as Bird leaves for his annual migration. Mouse goes to the library and is able to read a book about a fantastical place where other mice live. He wants to visit there and now he has to figure out how. Will the third time be the charm? We'll have to wait and see in Mouse's next attempt to travel. I really enjoyed this book. The pictures are fantastic and I love the storyline. I can't wait to see if Mouse is going to be able to travel!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Bird Heard by Tricia Gardella is one of those gentle stories that quietly sticks with you. I loved how Mouse’s dream of going to the moon doesn’t end when his first rocket fails — instead, it turns into something even bigger when Bird points him to the Library. It reminded me of how, as a kid, every answer I ever wanted seemed to live on the shelves of my local library, just waiting for me to find it.

The way the animals help each other is so warm and comforting — it’s a simple reminder that we don’t always have to do big things alone. Sometimes we just need a friend to share an idea or show us a new path. This book feels like a gentle nudge to keep wondering, keep trying, and trust that help and inspiration are often closer than we think.

[Tausha Treadway · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Bird Heard: A Kids Book About Following Your Dreams for Ages 4-8 (Mouse Traveler) by Tricia Gardella. This is the 2nd book in the Mouse Traveler series for kids aged 4-8. They are beautifully illustrated along with great stories for kids with a great lesson in them. This is the story of mouse and his quest to fly to the moon and of course Bird is there to give him all the advice. Mouse decides to use a rocket and to get all the farm animals to help. But where will they get fuel? Bird suggests going to the library to get information to help Mouse figure it all out. This is a great story to help kids not give up on their dreams! I'm loving this kids author and I've been buying the books for my new grandson! Can't wait to share them with him!

[Tara Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Bird Heard is the second book in the Mouse Traveler series. The book is intended for children ages 4–8. The story follows Mouse, who dreams of traveling to the moon, and Bird, his wise farmyard friend. Mouse attempts to build a rocket with help from other farm animals, but when that plan falters, Bird suggests visiting the library for answers. The library becomes a place of wonder where Mouse discovers new possibilities, igniting his imagination and further fueling his dreams. The vibrant and colorful illustrations really bring the story to life and are a great way to engage young readers. This book teaches children about dreams, perseverance, friendship, teamwork, discovery, learning, problem solving and creativity.

[Roxsanne Lesieur · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mouse has a dream, he wants to travel and fly a rocket to the moon and he is hoping that his friend Bird will help him after his first try failed.

So the two work together to make the new rocket, but then they realise that it will need rocket fuel and they don't have any!

This is where Bird shares what he heard with Mouse, that there is a place surrounded by a garden called a Library, a place of wonder and information.

This is where Mouse heads, but will he find the answers to his questions, will he learn how a Mouse can travel? This is a charming book about the importance of following your dreams wherever they lead.

[Kerry Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a heartwarming story about friendship and discovery and how it is important to never give up. It helps to teach kids that there are always new things you can try.
The story is absolutely fantastic as well. It is engaging, imaginative and really appeals to its intended audience. Both of my kids (just) fall within this range and I can honestly say they both really enjoyed it. The images bring the story to life and make it easier to become involved with the story. This author is one we always seem to enjoy and I cannot wait for another of her stories.

[Candice · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is book 2 in the Travelers Series, but can definitely be read as a stand-alone. This book is very cute, and well done. Mouse is still trying to figure out how to get to the moon, and after realizing that his first plan wasn't going to work (in book one). As a former teen librarian, I love that Bird tells Mouse that he should look for information at the local library. The illustrations are amazing, and the relationships between Mouse and the other animals around him on the farm are great. I would recommend this for young children, teachers, and librarians alike.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Following your dreams is important. Bird encourages Mouse to follow his dreams of traveling. Where will Mouse go to help him follow his dreams? Where would you go? This story is so fun to read to the little ones. It introduced many other animals, rhyming words and the library. The author opened up many concepts with this story. It's well written and easy to follow. The characters may tell the story. The pictures are well thought out and tell the story as well. Where would you like to go? I enjoy reading this author's book and look forward to reading more.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite thing about this book is the illustrations. They are vivid and very well done!!

This was a cute story but felt a little disjointed. There seemed to be a flow, then it would derail a bit, then come back. Kids may not pick up on it as easily as an adult. The story is still good though. There is even a cliffhanger at the end that will bring kids back to this author and her stories.

[Micalah · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Bird Heard is a cute, unique story of some animals that are curious about other places. I liked it. The illustrations were great. The book was well written. The ending kind of threw me a little bit because I’m not used to continuing stories in children’s books like these, but that was a very small issue. I’ll be looking forward to seeing how mouse gets to travel to the National Park in book 3.

[Trina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mouse was trying to take a trip to the moon. All the other animals were trying to help him build a rocket. But after the rocket is built, they realize they have no fuel. Poor Mouse! All he wants to do is travel. So, the other animals try to come up with ideas on how to travel. Bird suggested the library so Mouse couldn’t wait to check it out.
This is a cute story with beautiful illustrations. It lets children know that a library can open many worlds.

[Amanda Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

What Bird Heard is such a cute and charming book! We truly enjoyed both the playful storyline and the vibrant illustrations. The characters are fun and silly in the best way, and the message is lighthearted but meaningful. It kept my little one engaged from start to finish and had us both laughing along the way. A delightful read we’ll be coming back to often. Highly recommend for anyone looking to add something sweet and fun to their child’s bookshelf!

[Enchanted Owl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in Tricia Gardella’s Traveler series. Mouse is trying for a second trip to the moon, with the help of all the farm animals. Bird tells mouse he doesn’t need a rocket to travel. He can travel right here in our country. I enjoy the way these books are written and the way rhyming words are added in. The illustrations are beautifully done with vivid color and details. Definite recommend for anyone who reads to little ones.

[Kelli Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mouse is looking for a new adventure and wants to travel to the moon. Needing more information and help with building the rocket, Bird suggests going to the library to read books to help find the information Mouse needs. This book will have your child using their imagination and following along as Mouse is on a fact finding mission about getting to the moon. This entire series is going to be great.

[Brittany Shugart · Rating 5 out of 5]

"What Bird Heard" is the second book in the Traveler series by Tricia Gardella. It picks up right where book 1 left off; how to get Mouse to the moon. The farm animals band together to make a rocket to get Mouse to the moon. The only problem is, they haven't any rocket fuel. Now Mouse needs to find another way to travel to places unknown. This book encourages creativity, exploration and problem-solving.

[Heather Rae Brandt · Rating 4 out of 5]

This cute little story takes you on a "ride" of taking mouse to space. Bird explains what he heard as a way for mouse to travel. The illustrations were adorable and there is a lot going on. The story flows and would keep the attention of a child between 4-8 for sure! The story draws you in with bigger words with learning opportunity. See for yourself what bird heard!

[AnnaMarie Gardner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book two in the Mouse Traveler series and its just as fun to read as book one was. I truly enjoyed reading this with my friends son and he liked it a lot. It is a great way to introduce kids to the library and the wealth of knowledge that resides there. The illustrations were great and I really enjoy this authors work.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mouse is ready to try again to travel to the moon again. His loyal friend bird helps Mouse trying to figure out the best way to achieve his dreams. Will he be able to do it?

Another beautifully illustrated story about Mouse and his adventures. I think children will delight in this book and it will encourage figuring out problems and coming up with solutions. Great book.

[Katie Burgess · Rating 4 out of 5]

What Bird Heard by Tricia Gardella is a fun and charming kids’ book about dreaming big and working together. The story follows Bird and friends as they try to help Mouse reach the moon, facing silly challenges along the way. It’s full of teamwork, creativity, and heart, making it a great read for little ones. Perfect for kids who love adventure and cute animal characters!

[Cindy Rushin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute little story. I loved how all the animals came together to help the little mouse find a way to explore the world. I loved how it makes the library out to be a magical place that allows everyone to explore places and people who they might not otherwise have known. I recommend this book to anyone who has children who love to explore and learn.

[Rita White · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a cute little book! The story is so cute and catchy, and the illustrations are fantastic. All of mouse's friends are trying to help and give advice on how to build his rocket, so he goes on an adventure to the library for more information. Such a sweet read!

[Paula Sayers · Rating 4 out of 5]

After mouse fails at trying to go the moon, bird steps in to help his friend out This cute book helps mouse learn about being able to travel by going to the library and delving in to books. This author always has cute enjoyable books that teach children while they read.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This charming children's book, geared towards kids aged 3-6, encourages young minds to dream big and work towards making those dreams a reality. The beautiful illustrations and lovable characters make it a delightful read. We can't wait to see what happens next.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cute little children’s book. Mouse is curious about the world and he is trying to figure out a way to explore. His farm friends give him different suggestions but bird gives him the best suggestion. This is a short series but great for younger kids.