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The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frères
This story serves up a delightful recipe for a children's take one adorable tale of Parisian mice who want to win the prize for the best cheese soup in France, add a full serving of the whimsical illustrations of Marie LeTourneau, mix in a dash of French language and a sprinkling of Parisian café culture, and voilà! We have The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frères (Bistro of Seven Brothers).
With many basic French words cleverly woven into the story, readers will absorb the language without even realizing it. There is a pronunciation guide at the front of the book, and directions in the back to this website for the famous cheese soup recipe!
With many basic French words cleverly woven into the story, readers will absorb the language without even realizing it. There is a pronunciation guide at the front of the book, and directions in the back to this website for the famous cheese soup recipe!
32 pages, Hardcover
First published April 15, 2006
47 people want to read
About the author
Marie Letourneau
13 books34 followers
Marie Letourneau lives on Long Island, NY. Born in Queens, NY, Marie's family moved to Long Island when she was 5 years old. She grew up in Babylon Village - a quiet little town on the Great South Bay. Marie practically grew up on the beach. She has been interested in illustrating and writing for as far back as she can remember. As child, she would make little books out of paper and staples and give them to family members as gifts. Marie is mostly self-taught, but studied fine arts at Hoftsra University's New College where she earned her BFA. In 2006, her first book as both author and illustrator entitled, "The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres" (Tanglewood Books) won ForeWord Magazine's Indie Book of the Year Award, Bronze Medal. She has done design work for (and appeared on) The Nate Berkus Show, and The Revolution with fashion icon Tim Gunn. In 2014, Marie was a finalist in the Martha Stewart American Made Awards for her stationery shop Le French Circus, on Etsy. She loves the beach, animals, beets, roller skating, Star Wars, coffee and writing.
Marie Letourneau lives on Long Island, NY. Born in Queens, NY, Marie's family moved to Long Island when she was 5 years old. She grew up in Babylon Village - a quiet little town on the Great South Bay. Marie practically grew up on the beach. She has been interested in illustrating and writing for as far back as she can remember. As child, she would make little books out of paper and staples and give them to family members as gifts. Marie is mostly self-taught, but studied fine arts at Hoftsra University's New College where she earned her BFA. In 2006, her first book as both author and illustrator entitled, "The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres" (Tanglewood Books) won ForeWord Magazine's Indie Book of the Year Award, Bronze Medal. She has done design work for (and appeared on) The Nate Berkus Show, and The Revolution with fashion icon Tim Gunn. In 2014, Marie was a finalist in the Martha Stewart American Made Awards for her stationery shop Le French Circus, on Etsy. She loves the beach, animals, beets, roller skating, Star Wars, coffee and writing.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
December 17, 2017
Marie Letourneau has crafted a delightful picture about seven rodentine brothers who run a bistro with the best cheese soup in all of Paris. But can they prove it when a food critic shows up while the mouse father is still at the market? An overlooked member of the family saves the day!
Here’s a book peppered with French that will delight Francophones and Anglophones alike, whether you are a jeune fille ou garcon or personne âgée or any age in between.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Tanglewood in exchange for an honest review.
Here’s a book peppered with French that will delight Francophones and Anglophones alike, whether you are a jeune fille ou garcon or personne âgée or any age in between.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Tanglewood in exchange for an honest review.
August 10, 2016
What a wonderful, wonderful story!
In The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frère, its beautiful illustrations make the book. Set in a petit bistro in France, it is the story of a restaurant run by a family of mice. Each of the mice is unique in its own character and the illustrations depicted are both elegant and witty. It is satisfying to read a children's story book in which family members come together bringing their own individual strengths to the family as a whole to solve problems in times of crisis.
I find it worthwhile to note that the family appears to be motherless. The bistro is run by Chef Marcel, father to the "Sept Frère," the Seven Brothers, whom the bistro is named for. The last member of the family of French mice is Petite Michelle, the youngest and only female character in the book. When introduced, she appeared almost as an afterthought, lost in the patriarchy of a large family dominated by talented males with valuable skills in the family business. Petite Michelle likes ballet and “helps out here and there.”
I admit it. Even while charmed by the clever characters (a French/beatnik/sensitive/poet mouse can only be seen as endearing) my feminist feathers were ruffled.
They shouldn't have been.
In the midst of chaos, while the rest of the family is in a panic, breeding even MORE chaos, the youngest sibling, Petite Michelle effortlessly glides from situation to situation, putting out fires and generally saving the day in general, enabling the family to staunch the crisis and enjoy their happy ending.
While I’d have preferred her character to have taken on a more obvious role as a strong, female rather than adhering to qualities that typify gender-stereotypes, (the youngest, working in the background, not assigned to a specific or valuable task in the family business in a meaningful way they contributes to the family) I must concede that children think and view the world in extremes, and would likely identify with her in that small children tend to feel powerless in a large world. That Petite Michelle emerges from the shadows and proves herself to be calm and capable in a way that her father and older siblings cannot was a wonderful and enjoyable turn that will leave children feeling vicariously empowered and hungry for more.
Bon appétit.
A digital copy of this book was provided by the publisher for purposes of review.
In The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frère, its beautiful illustrations make the book. Set in a petit bistro in France, it is the story of a restaurant run by a family of mice. Each of the mice is unique in its own character and the illustrations depicted are both elegant and witty. It is satisfying to read a children's story book in which family members come together bringing their own individual strengths to the family as a whole to solve problems in times of crisis.
I find it worthwhile to note that the family appears to be motherless. The bistro is run by Chef Marcel, father to the "Sept Frère," the Seven Brothers, whom the bistro is named for. The last member of the family of French mice is Petite Michelle, the youngest and only female character in the book. When introduced, she appeared almost as an afterthought, lost in the patriarchy of a large family dominated by talented males with valuable skills in the family business. Petite Michelle likes ballet and “helps out here and there.”
I admit it. Even while charmed by the clever characters (a French/beatnik/sensitive/poet mouse can only be seen as endearing) my feminist feathers were ruffled.
They shouldn't have been.
In the midst of chaos, while the rest of the family is in a panic, breeding even MORE chaos, the youngest sibling, Petite Michelle effortlessly glides from situation to situation, putting out fires and generally saving the day in general, enabling the family to staunch the crisis and enjoy their happy ending.
While I’d have preferred her character to have taken on a more obvious role as a strong, female rather than adhering to qualities that typify gender-stereotypes, (the youngest, working in the background, not assigned to a specific or valuable task in the family business in a meaningful way they contributes to the family) I must concede that children think and view the world in extremes, and would likely identify with her in that small children tend to feel powerless in a large world. That Petite Michelle emerges from the shadows and proves herself to be calm and capable in a way that her father and older siblings cannot was a wonderful and enjoyable turn that will leave children feeling vicariously empowered and hungry for more.
Bon appétit.
A digital copy of this book was provided by the publisher for purposes of review.
July 10, 2014
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. No other consideration was offered, expected or received.
I knew from the cover that I was going to like this book, but I couldn’t imagine just how impressed with this book I would be. The artwork is very cute and made me smile just looking at it. I love the pronunciation page and that it teaches some French words to the reader in such a fun way. The characters are so much fun, but I especially like the hero of the story. And, as the description says, it includes a link to the recipe for the cheese soup so that you can try the best cheese soup in France yourself. :)
The class: They loved it – and I must admit that I LOVE finding books that they will want to hear more than once. This is a book that I would buy in physical form so that they could enjoy it themselves in the reading center. And, yes, we will be attempting the cheese soup ourselves. :)
I knew from the cover that I was going to like this book, but I couldn’t imagine just how impressed with this book I would be. The artwork is very cute and made me smile just looking at it. I love the pronunciation page and that it teaches some French words to the reader in such a fun way. The characters are so much fun, but I especially like the hero of the story. And, as the description says, it includes a link to the recipe for the cheese soup so that you can try the best cheese soup in France yourself. :)
The class: They loved it – and I must admit that I LOVE finding books that they will want to hear more than once. This is a book that I would buy in physical form so that they could enjoy it themselves in the reading center. And, yes, we will be attempting the cheese soup ourselves. :)
May 5, 2016
This is a delightful little picture book about a mouse chef and his seven sons and...oh...one daughter.
The chef is told that the judge is coming to taste his soup, and so must run out and bring home the secret ingredient, while his seven sons work on the soup.
And then, along comes his daughter, who ads her own secret ingredient, and saves the day.
The publisher emphasizes how much French is dropped into the book, and how kids can learn french this way. I don't think that is the point of the book.
I would give this four stars for the daughter's actions, but take away a star because up until that point it is a bit boring.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
The chef is told that the judge is coming to taste his soup, and so must run out and bring home the secret ingredient, while his seven sons work on the soup.
And then, along comes his daughter, who ads her own secret ingredient, and saves the day.
The publisher emphasizes how much French is dropped into the book, and how kids can learn french this way. I don't think that is the point of the book.
I would give this four stars for the daughter's actions, but take away a star because up until that point it is a bit boring.
Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
August 6, 2011
Couldn't ask for a better subject! Mice and cooking. A family that has a restaurant wants to make the best cheese soup, each having their own part. VERY cute story, with French thrown in the mix, lots of fun to read outloud over and over.
The pictures were very delightful and excellent. Doesn't downplay to kids, but makes it fun to learn french and a good story of working together to achieve a shared goal!
received ebook for free to review by publisher
The pictures were very delightful and excellent. Doesn't downplay to kids, but makes it fun to learn french and a good story of working together to achieve a shared goal!
received ebook for free to review by publisher
February 27, 2012
One of my absolute favorite picture books -- from one of my absolute favorite publishers (Tanglewood Press!)
September 20, 2020
Pleasant children’s book depicting a family of mice resterauteurs, who come together and save the day and meal with the surprising help of one special mouse. This book has cute illustrations showing a Parisian restaurant, while also providing French vocabulary throughout.
June 28, 2015
OK confession time...when I first joined *Netgalley I was request happy. I mean I'd request anything and everything. Fast forward to the present...well now I know the consequences of my actions because I had a 3% feedback rating. But over the last few months I've brought it up to over 35% and am working on raising it higher. This book is one of the few still on there that have not been archived or deleted. So finally after over three years of not reading or reviewing it I finally got around to reading it.
The book tells the tale of mice Chef Marcel and his 7 mice sons and his petite mouse daughter. Chef Marcel makes the best cheese soup in all of France. But one day just before he is to be judged on his soup he runs of the secret ingredient that only he knows. Panic ensues and Chef Marcel leaves it to his sons to start making the soup while he runs to find the secret ingredient. Everyone is in a panic except for his sweet petite daughter who is nothing but calm. Will Chef Marcel return in time to finish making his famous soup?
When I first requested this book (way back when) I had intended to read it to my son. But when I looked at it back then I knew it was still too advanced for him. Back then he could only handle books with one line per page. But I was delighted when I went back to read this that it was perfect for him now. My son loved this book. His favorite parts were when the mice would bump into each other causing food to fly everywhere.
The drawings were so perfect. Soft colors and gorgeous to look at scenes. This will definitely be read again in this house.
5 out of 5 stars!
*I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion
**This book was read with my special needs son who is severely learning disabled. The review reflects not only my opinion but his as well
The book tells the tale of mice Chef Marcel and his 7 mice sons and his petite mouse daughter. Chef Marcel makes the best cheese soup in all of France. But one day just before he is to be judged on his soup he runs of the secret ingredient that only he knows. Panic ensues and Chef Marcel leaves it to his sons to start making the soup while he runs to find the secret ingredient. Everyone is in a panic except for his sweet petite daughter who is nothing but calm. Will Chef Marcel return in time to finish making his famous soup?
When I first requested this book (way back when) I had intended to read it to my son. But when I looked at it back then I knew it was still too advanced for him. Back then he could only handle books with one line per page. But I was delighted when I went back to read this that it was perfect for him now. My son loved this book. His favorite parts were when the mice would bump into each other causing food to fly everywhere.
The drawings were so perfect. Soft colors and gorgeous to look at scenes. This will definitely be read again in this house.
5 out of 5 stars!
*I received a free copy of this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion
**This book was read with my special needs son who is severely learning disabled. The review reflects not only my opinion but his as well
December 18, 2010
I was watching an Ace of Cakes episode oh about a year ago, and for a birthday cake they were doing Petite Michelle from this book, stirring a giant pot of soup from the top of a ladder. They showed the book - this book - and I just had to get hold of it. The illustrations are just wonderful, and the story is a classically simple but enjoyable children's story.
Le Bistrot des Sept Frères means The Bisto of the Seven Brothers, and it is the hippest restaurant in Paris, particularly famous for its cheese soup. When Chef Marcel and his seven sons (and one daughter) receive notice that the French Culinary Judge, Alfred Le Whisk, will arrive in an hour to taste their famous cheese soup, the whole kitchen is in an uproar. Chef Marcel leaves his panicking sons to go for the secret ingredient, and while he's gone they make the soup. But it's missing the secret ingredient, and his sons don't know what to do. It takes Petite Michelle to add a dash of this and a drop of that and save the soup - and the day!
There are lots of French words sprinkled throughout the story, and the very first page provides a glossary and pronunciation of the words used for those like myself who have no French. At first this made it hard to concentrate on the story and the illustrations, because I was constantly flipping back to check the pronunciation, but read it enough times and I'm sure you'll acquire a grasp of basic French pronunciation! (It's the one thing that intimidates me about French more than anything.)
Le Bistrot des Sept Frères means The Bisto of the Seven Brothers, and it is the hippest restaurant in Paris, particularly famous for its cheese soup. When Chef Marcel and his seven sons (and one daughter) receive notice that the French Culinary Judge, Alfred Le Whisk, will arrive in an hour to taste their famous cheese soup, the whole kitchen is in an uproar. Chef Marcel leaves his panicking sons to go for the secret ingredient, and while he's gone they make the soup. But it's missing the secret ingredient, and his sons don't know what to do. It takes Petite Michelle to add a dash of this and a drop of that and save the soup - and the day!
There are lots of French words sprinkled throughout the story, and the very first page provides a glossary and pronunciation of the words used for those like myself who have no French. At first this made it hard to concentrate on the story and the illustrations, because I was constantly flipping back to check the pronunciation, but read it enough times and I'm sure you'll acquire a grasp of basic French pronunciation! (It's the one thing that intimidates me about French more than anything.)
April 18, 2013
The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres
by Marie LeTourneau
My rating: 5*****
3.93 of 5 stars 3.93 · rating details · 42 ratings · 27 reviews
This story serves up a delightful recipe for a children's book: take one adorable tale of Parisian mice who want to win the prize for the best cheese soup in France, add a full serving of the whimsical illustrations of Marie LeTourneau, mix in a dash of French language and a sprinkling of Parisian café culture, and voilà! We have The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frères (Bistro of Seven Brothers).
With many basic French words cleverly woven into the story, readers will absorb the language without even realizing it. There is a pronunciation guide at the front of the book, and directions in the back to this website for the famous cheese soup recipe!(less)
~~~ My thoughts: Lisa MoonShineArtSpot
I fell in love with the beautiful, whimsical cover illustration Marie LeTourneau & the story was absolutely delightful & fun with a clever mix of French words in an easily understandable context. I could not wait to see what the cute & energetic little mice would do next. Such a clever book. There is also a tasty sounding recipe for the award winning soup prepared by the mice brothers & their helpful sister.
Marie LeTourneau combined the perfect ingredients of design, whimsy in illustration & story telling to cook up an amazing children's read!
This book was provided for an honest review and my opinion is in no way a paid advertisement for the book.
by Marie LeTourneau
My rating: 5*****
3.93 of 5 stars 3.93 · rating details · 42 ratings · 27 reviews
This story serves up a delightful recipe for a children's book: take one adorable tale of Parisian mice who want to win the prize for the best cheese soup in France, add a full serving of the whimsical illustrations of Marie LeTourneau, mix in a dash of French language and a sprinkling of Parisian café culture, and voilà! We have The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Frères (Bistro of Seven Brothers).
With many basic French words cleverly woven into the story, readers will absorb the language without even realizing it. There is a pronunciation guide at the front of the book, and directions in the back to this website for the famous cheese soup recipe!(less)
~~~ My thoughts: Lisa MoonShineArtSpot
I fell in love with the beautiful, whimsical cover illustration Marie LeTourneau & the story was absolutely delightful & fun with a clever mix of French words in an easily understandable context. I could not wait to see what the cute & energetic little mice would do next. Such a clever book. There is also a tasty sounding recipe for the award winning soup prepared by the mice brothers & their helpful sister.
Marie LeTourneau combined the perfect ingredients of design, whimsy in illustration & story telling to cook up an amazing children's read!
This book was provided for an honest review and my opinion is in no way a paid advertisement for the book.
February 11, 2017
I loved this book! I can’t wait to share this book with my classes. The illustrations were fantastic and the story was fun. It centers upon Chef Marcel and his famous recipe. This famous recipe is for cheese soup and it is time again for the yearly contest to see if his recipe can hold its place as #1 in France. Oh course, Chef Marcel is a mouse and his family is the only one who knows the secret recipe so they all must work together to win the contest. The judge is coming is one hour and the family is frantically bumping into one another in the kitchen to get the soup cooked and in the bowl before the judge enters the establishment. Only there is one problem. They are out of the secret ingredient! How can they make the famous soup? Will Chef Marcel be able to hold onto his title of the best cheese soup in all of France?
What a wonderful story and the pictures are so whimsical and amusing. As the family fumbles around in the kitchen, you feel the panic and the concern that is running through their minds as they wait for the judge to arrive and wonder what they are going to do over the missing secret ingredient. After reading this book, you might also learn a few French words using the pronunciation guide that’s included, you just never know. I can’t say enough about this book except you need to pick this up and read it- you will truly love it. I have been reading the book Anatole for year and I think this book is a terrific book to pair with it.
Thanks NetGalley and Tanglewood Press for providing me a copy of this book.
What a wonderful story and the pictures are so whimsical and amusing. As the family fumbles around in the kitchen, you feel the panic and the concern that is running through their minds as they wait for the judge to arrive and wonder what they are going to do over the missing secret ingredient. After reading this book, you might also learn a few French words using the pronunciation guide that’s included, you just never know. I can’t say enough about this book except you need to pick this up and read it- you will truly love it. I have been reading the book Anatole for year and I think this book is a terrific book to pair with it.
Thanks NetGalley and Tanglewood Press for providing me a copy of this book.
May 6, 2013
The Mice of Bistrot des 7 frères is a wonderful story that reminds me of Ratatouille. Please note that “Ratatouille” in French is pronounced “rah-tah-too-yah”, and not “rah-tah-too-yee” (pet peeve, I’m sorry).
It’s a short little story that is both amusing and educational. The author included a list of the French words she used with the English translation and a pronunciation guide.
I really liked that Petite Michelle saved the day and that her name was added to the Bistrot’s name: “Le Bistrot des 7 Frères et une soeur”.
And now onto the art! In my opinion, illustrations are as important in children’s books as the actual story. The drawings are beautiful; simple and adorable. The colouring is superb. I really don’t have anything negative to say about this book.
I recommend it to all the little girls and little boys who like a fun story starring charming little characters. I’m sure mom and dad wouldn’t get tired of telling it over and over again!
Full review here @ The HungryBookster
It’s a short little story that is both amusing and educational. The author included a list of the French words she used with the English translation and a pronunciation guide.
I really liked that Petite Michelle saved the day and that her name was added to the Bistrot’s name: “Le Bistrot des 7 Frères et une soeur”.
And now onto the art! In my opinion, illustrations are as important in children’s books as the actual story. The drawings are beautiful; simple and adorable. The colouring is superb. I really don’t have anything negative to say about this book.
I recommend it to all the little girls and little boys who like a fun story starring charming little characters. I’m sure mom and dad wouldn’t get tired of telling it over and over again!
Full review here @ The HungryBookster
December 30, 2008
A last minute telegram from "The Committee for the Best Soup in All of France" turns Le Bistrot des Sept Freres upside down! The Bistro is the hippest and yummiest place for mouse cuisine in all of Paris.
The Bistro is owned by Chef Marcel, who employs his seven sons to help run the place. But wait! He has a young daughter who plays a small yet important part in the operation as well. The telegram causes a huge commotion when Chef Marcel realizes he is out of the secret ingredient that makes his soup so tasty. The text is interwoven with French terms that are easy to understand given the context, and easy to pronounce given the pronunciation guide that precedes the story. Delightful illustrations accompany the text, using a muted palette of pastel colors. Each character has unique whimsical qualities that add to the entertaining drama that unfolds. Recommended for younger elementary students.
The Bistro is owned by Chef Marcel, who employs his seven sons to help run the place. But wait! He has a young daughter who plays a small yet important part in the operation as well. The telegram causes a huge commotion when Chef Marcel realizes he is out of the secret ingredient that makes his soup so tasty. The text is interwoven with French terms that are easy to understand given the context, and easy to pronounce given the pronunciation guide that precedes the story. Delightful illustrations accompany the text, using a muted palette of pastel colors. Each character has unique whimsical qualities that add to the entertaining drama that unfolds. Recommended for younger elementary students.
November 17, 2011
Frenzy arises when Chef Marcel, of Le Bistrot de Sept Freres, has only one hour to prepare his award winning cheese soup to be judged by the Committee for the Best cheese soup in All of France. But Chef Marcel is out of his secret ingredient! Chef Marcel quickly leaves to get his secret ingredient but doesn't return in time for the judge, leaving his 7 brothers to create their own secret ingredient to add. Will it work??
The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres is a fun and adorable book. I love books that include new words and language, and Marie LeTourneau gives you beaucoup to learn! She guides you in learning new French words and sayings that you can use everyday. LeTourneau's images are absolutely gorgeous! You can spend hours looking at these amazing drawings, full of wonderful detail.
Adults and children will absolutely love this book! A must read for everyone!!
The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres is a fun and adorable book. I love books that include new words and language, and Marie LeTourneau gives you beaucoup to learn! She guides you in learning new French words and sayings that you can use everyday. LeTourneau's images are absolutely gorgeous! You can spend hours looking at these amazing drawings, full of wonderful detail.
Adults and children will absolutely love this book! A must read for everyone!!
September 22, 2013
This book is simply adorable! The illustrations are original and do not appear to be mas produced as with so many other children's titles. I love it when a parent can enjoy what they are reading with their children and this book is just too cute not to love.
I was impressed with the story as well. There is a wonderful message for young people included in this story--teaching them that just because things do not go as planned, team work can make everything turn out better than expected.
Easy enough for a beginning reader, but also long enough to make it worth the purchase, this one. Also a great way to introduce your child to basic French vocabulary.
I would definitely recommend this book to parents, grandparents and anyone else with a young person in their lives. Plus, it was just so much fun!
I was impressed with the story as well. There is a wonderful message for young people included in this story--teaching them that just because things do not go as planned, team work can make everything turn out better than expected.
Easy enough for a beginning reader, but also long enough to make it worth the purchase, this one. Also a great way to introduce your child to basic French vocabulary.
I would definitely recommend this book to parents, grandparents and anyone else with a young person in their lives. Plus, it was just so much fun!
August 7, 2014
Reminiscent of "Ratatouille", here is a restaurant run by mice (dad, his seven sons, and one youngest daughter) who strive each year to win the "best cheese soup" award. When they run out of their special ingredient just before the judge arrives, dad runs to the store while the seven brothers panic and wreck havoc in the kitchen. Enter calm-headed and quiet Michelle to save the day! (Then, to add a bit of feminism, they change the name of the restaurant to the 7 brothers and 1 sister). The lovely illustrations depict very charming and friendly mice in stereotypical French outfits, and each page of the story sneaks in French words and phrases for youngsters to learn. A website listed on the last page leads to many activities for children to do after reading the book: from making paper bag puppets, to reiterating the French learned in the story, to cooking up the soup!
May 17, 2009
I loved this book. The illustrations were fabulous and made you feel like you were sitting in a French Bistrot listening to accordian music, or maybe they just made you wish you were. Anyway......my favorite character is Petite Michelle. She is carefree and oblivious to the chaos going on in the bistrot and makes an important discovery and addition for the bistrot in the end. Petite Michelle is adorable with her little dancing, carefree attitude.
There is also a Mice website that the book gives reference to that is fantastic. It gives you the recipe for the famous cheese soup that Petite Michelle creates in the story. Try it!
I hope Marie LeTourneau continues the adventures of Petite Michelle. I enjoy her work.
There is also a Mice website that the book gives reference to that is fantastic. It gives you the recipe for the famous cheese soup that Petite Michelle creates in the story. Try it!
I hope Marie LeTourneau continues the adventures of Petite Michelle. I enjoy her work.
September 30, 2015
{my thoughts} - This is a cute little book about a Mouse family that owns and runs a Bistro in France. There is a best cheese soup competition taking place and the father realizes he doesn’t have the right ingredients. He leaves it up to his children to prepare the soup and the youngest one saves the day and soup.
I enjoyed this book for a few reasons. First, I like mice, rats, little critters. Second, it helps to introduce young children to the French language. All and all, it is a nice book and I am sure that young children will enjoy reading or being read to over and over again.
{reason for reading} - I received a free download of this book through netgalley in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book for a few reasons. First, I like mice, rats, little critters. Second, it helps to introduce young children to the French language. All and all, it is a nice book and I am sure that young children will enjoy reading or being read to over and over again.
{reason for reading} - I received a free download of this book through netgalley in return for an honest review.
March 2, 2015
Lovely picture book with wonderful illustrations. Chef Marcel has the best soup in France, but he is out of the secret ingredient! Will his sons be able to make the soup without him, or will he lose the prestige of having the best cheese soup in France?
Love the splattering of French words and the illustrations were fabulous. Would recommend this for any elementary reader, but especially those with an interest in cooking or France.
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I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. No other consideration was offered, expected or received.
Love the splattering of French words and the illustrations were fabulous. Would recommend this for any elementary reader, but especially those with an interest in cooking or France.
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I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. No other consideration was offered, expected or received.
July 4, 2014
I was sent a copy of the book for review through Net Galley, as always, all opinions are my own.
Just before my trip to France last month I requested this book so I could share it with my son. He’s only 2, but I still wanted to share with him a little bit about where we would be while he was off to stay with grandma. I don’t speak French so I did find the French words a little difficult, but the glossary helped quite a bit with my pronunciation. We thought this was a wonderful book and I have read it before bed several times now because my son is a huge fan of the illustrations.
Just before my trip to France last month I requested this book so I could share it with my son. He’s only 2, but I still wanted to share with him a little bit about where we would be while he was off to stay with grandma. I don’t speak French so I did find the French words a little difficult, but the glossary helped quite a bit with my pronunciation. We thought this was a wonderful book and I have read it before bed several times now because my son is a huge fan of the illustrations.
November 25, 2013
Borrowed this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
This is an adorable little book. It's about a Chef who runs a bistro with his seven sons and one daughter. Things go a little chaotic when a judge plans to visit the restaurant to judge the bistro's award winning cheese soup.
The artwork is bright and color and perfectly compliment the story.
This is an adorable little book. It's about a Chef who runs a bistro with his seven sons and one daughter. Things go a little chaotic when a judge plans to visit the restaurant to judge the bistro's award winning cheese soup.
The artwork is bright and color and perfectly compliment the story.
September 6, 2020
I have to start with expressing how exquisite the illustrations are in this delightful children's book. Beyond the wonderful story, tis book offers many educational opportunities, as well as a fun way for parents and children to spend time together.
Father, Chef Marcel, seems to be a very traditional male. His passion is his restaurant and his pride are the sons who work with him, perhaps to one day carry on as award winning chefs themselves. The book acknowledges that each son has his own interests and talents outside of the restaurant. Darling Petite Michelle, the youngest, and only daughter, has been sort of a mascot, an after-thought in the family business, but she takes her place in stride. She is confident that she is of value.
When a great opportunity arises on short notice, and the male members of the famly seem to panic, Petite Michelle carrys on, doing what needs to be done. In the end, a happy ending, and proof that change can be a good thing. Sweet Michelle gets the recognition she deserves.
Many opportunities for conversation starters, both in text and illustrations.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tanglewood publishing for the opportunity to enjoy this book.
Father, Chef Marcel, seems to be a very traditional male. His passion is his restaurant and his pride are the sons who work with him, perhaps to one day carry on as award winning chefs themselves. The book acknowledges that each son has his own interests and talents outside of the restaurant. Darling Petite Michelle, the youngest, and only daughter, has been sort of a mascot, an after-thought in the family business, but she takes her place in stride. She is confident that she is of value.
When a great opportunity arises on short notice, and the male members of the famly seem to panic, Petite Michelle carrys on, doing what needs to be done. In the end, a happy ending, and proof that change can be a good thing. Sweet Michelle gets the recognition she deserves.
Many opportunities for conversation starters, both in text and illustrations.
Thank you to Netgalley and Tanglewood publishing for the opportunity to enjoy this book.
January 20, 2018
Delightful picture book for young children. The story is set in Papa Mouse's restaurant (The Bistro of Seven Brothers). A top food critic visits the cafe one day to test the soup but Papa Mouse can't get back from the market in time with his secret ingredient! Who will save the day?
A real page-turner for the little ones, and it includes a handy link to a recipe for the soup 😀
A real page-turner for the little ones, and it includes a handy link to a recipe for the soup 😀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 21, 2021
Such a darling book! It's about 7 mice brothers (and one sister) who make the best cheese soup and how they deal with a food critic coming to taste it. I love that it is a fun way to teach some easy French words. The illustrations are cute and the story is too. I love that the sister saves the day, go girl!!
August 28, 2023
I loved the way French was incorporated into the book which is perfect for kids, and even young adults just learning the language for the first time. I felt that the story was adorable, and easy to follow.. I received a review copy fro Net Galley.
December 29, 2017
Really cute and love the French words interspersed in the text! Full review to come!
February 19, 2017
The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres
Written and Illustrated by: Marie LeTourneau
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Such a charming book - I cannot recommend it highly enough!
Plot:
The story is set in the Bistrot des Sept Freres, a mouse Parisian cafe which is famous for its award winning cheese soup. It is run by Chef Marcel and his seven sons (of the cafe name). Each day they recite the ingredients in the soup and finish up by saying, "... and the secret ingredient." There is also a daughter, "petite Michelle". She loves to dance and helps out here and there. She is not included in the name of the cafe! This year, when the judge for the cheese soup announces his arrival time, Chef Marcel realizes that he is out of the secret ingredient. Mayhem ensues. While Chef Marcel runs out to get the ingredient, the seven sons pull together the rest of the soup (cheese, broth, etc,). All throughout the confusion and disorder, Michelle has been calmly setting out eggs, and folding napkins. Oh no, the deadline is approaching and Dad hasn't returned, what to do? Petite Michelle dances in and calmly adds salt, rosemary,and six drops of hot pepper sauce. Spoiler alert - the judge loves the soup and the cafe's reputation is saved! At the end of the book, Chef Marcel adds "et une Soeur" (and a sister)! Perfect!
I loved too the French lesson gently inserted throughout the book. At the beginning is a list of pronunciations for the French words (no English translations). Then, as you read, the French phrases occur organically in the story followed by an English translation
Illustrations:
I loved, loved these pictures. They so beautifully illustrated and enhanced the story. I especially loved the open windows with scenes of Paris in rich, full color. The illustrator used color so effectively. The scenes had black and white components mixed with color. For instance, the mouse was in black and white but his coat was a mossy green. The kitchen would be black and white with petite Michelle dancing around performing culinary magic in color. The mice were adorably human-like. There is a scene set in the cafe (pre-cheese soup inspection) that warrants close inspection of each character. They are individually recognizable characters.
Author/ Illustrator:
Ms. LeTourneau's website is pretty interesting. She has written and illustrated a few other books which looked equally interesting and certainly worth reading. She also has award winning stationery for sale through ETSY.
Tanglewood Publishers:
At the end of the book, the author provides a link for her cheese soup recipe. This link takes you to the site of the wonderful Tanglewood Publishing House. Their focus is on kids from board books to Young Adult. I found there the endearing "Kissing Hand" books and a new book I've been interested in reading (YA section) "Surviving the Angel of Death". They also carry Ms. LeTourneau's new book, "Argyle Fox" which launches March 26. At their website they say, "in every Tanglewood book readers will find a sense of comfort that comes with being seen and understood." You definitely get that message in "The Mice of Bistrot ...".
In conclusion:
Such a wonderful book! Your kids will love it and so will you.
Written and Illustrated by: Marie LeTourneau
I received an e-ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Such a charming book - I cannot recommend it highly enough!
Plot:
The story is set in the Bistrot des Sept Freres, a mouse Parisian cafe which is famous for its award winning cheese soup. It is run by Chef Marcel and his seven sons (of the cafe name). Each day they recite the ingredients in the soup and finish up by saying, "... and the secret ingredient." There is also a daughter, "petite Michelle". She loves to dance and helps out here and there. She is not included in the name of the cafe! This year, when the judge for the cheese soup announces his arrival time, Chef Marcel realizes that he is out of the secret ingredient. Mayhem ensues. While Chef Marcel runs out to get the ingredient, the seven sons pull together the rest of the soup (cheese, broth, etc,). All throughout the confusion and disorder, Michelle has been calmly setting out eggs, and folding napkins. Oh no, the deadline is approaching and Dad hasn't returned, what to do? Petite Michelle dances in and calmly adds salt, rosemary,and six drops of hot pepper sauce. Spoiler alert - the judge loves the soup and the cafe's reputation is saved! At the end of the book, Chef Marcel adds "et une Soeur" (and a sister)! Perfect!
I loved too the French lesson gently inserted throughout the book. At the beginning is a list of pronunciations for the French words (no English translations). Then, as you read, the French phrases occur organically in the story followed by an English translation
Illustrations:
I loved, loved these pictures. They so beautifully illustrated and enhanced the story. I especially loved the open windows with scenes of Paris in rich, full color. The illustrator used color so effectively. The scenes had black and white components mixed with color. For instance, the mouse was in black and white but his coat was a mossy green. The kitchen would be black and white with petite Michelle dancing around performing culinary magic in color. The mice were adorably human-like. There is a scene set in the cafe (pre-cheese soup inspection) that warrants close inspection of each character. They are individually recognizable characters.
Author/ Illustrator:
Ms. LeTourneau's website is pretty interesting. She has written and illustrated a few other books which looked equally interesting and certainly worth reading. She also has award winning stationery for sale through ETSY.
Tanglewood Publishers:
At the end of the book, the author provides a link for her cheese soup recipe. This link takes you to the site of the wonderful Tanglewood Publishing House. Their focus is on kids from board books to Young Adult. I found there the endearing "Kissing Hand" books and a new book I've been interested in reading (YA section) "Surviving the Angel of Death". They also carry Ms. LeTourneau's new book, "Argyle Fox" which launches March 26. At their website they say, "in every Tanglewood book readers will find a sense of comfort that comes with being seen and understood." You definitely get that message in "The Mice of Bistrot ...".
In conclusion:
Such a wonderful book! Your kids will love it and so will you.
December 31, 2014
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
+++CONTAINS CHEESY SPOLERS+++
An ARC was received from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, which is entirely my opinion.
This is a charmingly illustrated story incorporating the use of French into the storytelling—there is even a page of French vocabulary at the beginning. It is not overwhelming, and adds fun to the telling rather than detracting from it—what child wouldn't like to add a couple of words of French to their vocabulary to use on their unsuspecting parents? (If another person is reading the story to them, that is, if they are not reading it on their own?)
The story centers on the Head Chef, the father of the seven brothers after which the Parisian restaurant is named, and his famous cheese soup, known for being the best of all cheese soups in France. Why is his soup so special? The secret ingredient, which only he knows. The arrival of a notice that a renowned food critic will be arriving at the bistro in—zut alors!--an hour's time to taste this famed cheese soup sends the kitchen into a frenzy; the Head Chef has his sons recite the recipe for cheese soup, then heads out to the shops for his secret ingredient.
Now, in the introduction of all the brothers in the beginning of the story, the very last introduction is of the daughter, Michelle, who is very, very quiet (as a mouse?), loves ballet, and helps out here and there. She is also, it appears, the calm-headed one. She folds the napkins while her older brothers rush about in the kitchen, and everything she does has a dancer's serene-like grace to it.
The hour is almost up, and still their father has not returned. In one of my favorite illustrations in the story, everything in the kitchen goes wild after the announcement the food critic has arrived, the crescendo ending in a topsy-turvy scene of flying vegetables, dropped crockery, and frantic mousy panic. In dances Michelle, adding ingredients to the soup in a very precise fashion.
After tasting it, the food critic declares it the very best cheese soup, not just in France, but in the whole world. Michelle is the hero. My very favorite scene is her father adding “et une Soeur” at the name of the restaurant, while the ballet school practices above the restaurant.
There are many things to like about this book: the storytelling, the whimsically delightful illustrations, the incorporation of a new (to some) language, and the funny rush to get the soup made before the food critic arrives. I was pleased that it was the daughter who remained composed about fixing the soup and also didn't make a huge deal of it.
Michelle is the highlight of the story, and her character is one that is good for both girls and boys to see; even now, in 2014, girls need to be given confidence that they are capable of doing great things, and boys need to be reminded of that fact. In families this is especially important, and here it expands beyond just being a girl, but to being the quiet one as well—especially in a large family—encourage the quiet ones in your family, give them the self-confidence to be able to make the decisions they need to. Because, someday, their decisions could have a profound impact on your life as well, in a good way, as the story shows. Michelle being around the restaurant, and her brothers and father, and observing them, taught her a lot when they thought, perhaps, she was just “being Michelle.” They accepted her being there, helping when she could, and when they needed her, there she was—and they weren't even aware that it was her they needed. I don't mean to sound preachy in the slightest, it very well could have been the littlest brother, but it wasn't. And “Les Bistrot les Sept Frères et une Soeur” just has a nice ring to it.
There's a note in the back of the book to check the publisher's website if you want to try to make the same soup the mice in Paris did and see for yourself if the soup is just as delicious. Is it? There's only one way to find out! Read the book and find the note...
+++CONTAINS CHEESY SPOLERS+++
An ARC was received from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, which is entirely my opinion.
This is a charmingly illustrated story incorporating the use of French into the storytelling—there is even a page of French vocabulary at the beginning. It is not overwhelming, and adds fun to the telling rather than detracting from it—what child wouldn't like to add a couple of words of French to their vocabulary to use on their unsuspecting parents? (If another person is reading the story to them, that is, if they are not reading it on their own?)
The story centers on the Head Chef, the father of the seven brothers after which the Parisian restaurant is named, and his famous cheese soup, known for being the best of all cheese soups in France. Why is his soup so special? The secret ingredient, which only he knows. The arrival of a notice that a renowned food critic will be arriving at the bistro in—zut alors!--an hour's time to taste this famed cheese soup sends the kitchen into a frenzy; the Head Chef has his sons recite the recipe for cheese soup, then heads out to the shops for his secret ingredient.
Now, in the introduction of all the brothers in the beginning of the story, the very last introduction is of the daughter, Michelle, who is very, very quiet (as a mouse?), loves ballet, and helps out here and there. She is also, it appears, the calm-headed one. She folds the napkins while her older brothers rush about in the kitchen, and everything she does has a dancer's serene-like grace to it.
The hour is almost up, and still their father has not returned. In one of my favorite illustrations in the story, everything in the kitchen goes wild after the announcement the food critic has arrived, the crescendo ending in a topsy-turvy scene of flying vegetables, dropped crockery, and frantic mousy panic. In dances Michelle, adding ingredients to the soup in a very precise fashion.
After tasting it, the food critic declares it the very best cheese soup, not just in France, but in the whole world. Michelle is the hero. My very favorite scene is her father adding “et une Soeur” at the name of the restaurant, while the ballet school practices above the restaurant.
There are many things to like about this book: the storytelling, the whimsically delightful illustrations, the incorporation of a new (to some) language, and the funny rush to get the soup made before the food critic arrives. I was pleased that it was the daughter who remained composed about fixing the soup and also didn't make a huge deal of it.
Michelle is the highlight of the story, and her character is one that is good for both girls and boys to see; even now, in 2014, girls need to be given confidence that they are capable of doing great things, and boys need to be reminded of that fact. In families this is especially important, and here it expands beyond just being a girl, but to being the quiet one as well—especially in a large family—encourage the quiet ones in your family, give them the self-confidence to be able to make the decisions they need to. Because, someday, their decisions could have a profound impact on your life as well, in a good way, as the story shows. Michelle being around the restaurant, and her brothers and father, and observing them, taught her a lot when they thought, perhaps, she was just “being Michelle.” They accepted her being there, helping when she could, and when they needed her, there she was—and they weren't even aware that it was her they needed. I don't mean to sound preachy in the slightest, it very well could have been the littlest brother, but it wasn't. And “Les Bistrot les Sept Frères et une Soeur” just has a nice ring to it.
There's a note in the back of the book to check the publisher's website if you want to try to make the same soup the mice in Paris did and see for yourself if the soup is just as delicious. Is it? There's only one way to find out! Read the book and find the note...
September 2, 2016
The mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres published by Tanglewood Press written and illustrated by Marie LeTourneau with Danielle Reed Baty, is a beautiful children's story. I thank Netgalley for it.
Pictures researched, with a special aristocratic touch to my point of view.
The story is this one: Once upon a time there was a place (Paris) populated only by mices. They were like humans so, our society, plenty of shops, stores etc. One of these ones was a wonderful bistrot: The Bistrot des Sept Frère Chef Marcel. The chef has seven sons and one daughter Petite Michelle. This chef goes proud for something: he won per years and years a special prize, the one of, can you guess what? Best Cheese Soup of all the France. At least, you know mices falls in love for cheese and France is a Cheese Paradise with wagons and wagons of varieties of all sort.
But what happens? Well, something pretty embarrassing: Chef Marcel uses for this special Cheese Soup a special ingredient. No other one of his family or friends knows the secret ingredient but he goes in panic when he receives a telegrams saying:
"Cher Chef Marcel, (Cher is for Dear in Francais, voilà!),
it is that time of year again.
French Culinary Judge Alfred Le Whisk
will arrive at your bistro
to taste your famous cheese soup
on the 2nd of June,
at one o'clock sharp,
Best regards as ever.
The Committe for the Best Cheese Soup in All of France"
Panic sounded a word literally too little and insignificant for trying to understand what happened at Chef Marcel.
The man, ops, sorry, mice, didn't have in fact the secret ingredient!!!
Just her little Petite Michelle, the latest one of his children will help him, the secret ingredient will be add and Judge Le Whisk satisfied after very stressing days! of palpitations.
And of course Chef Marcel won't forget this time Petite Michelle.
Not anymore...
Absolutely beauty, funny for the chaos eheheh, and cute!
I thank Netgalley for this funny children's book!
Pictures researched, with a special aristocratic touch to my point of view.
The story is this one: Once upon a time there was a place (Paris) populated only by mices. They were like humans so, our society, plenty of shops, stores etc. One of these ones was a wonderful bistrot: The Bistrot des Sept Frère Chef Marcel. The chef has seven sons and one daughter Petite Michelle. This chef goes proud for something: he won per years and years a special prize, the one of, can you guess what? Best Cheese Soup of all the France. At least, you know mices falls in love for cheese and France is a Cheese Paradise with wagons and wagons of varieties of all sort.
But what happens? Well, something pretty embarrassing: Chef Marcel uses for this special Cheese Soup a special ingredient. No other one of his family or friends knows the secret ingredient but he goes in panic when he receives a telegrams saying:
"Cher Chef Marcel, (Cher is for Dear in Francais, voilà!),
it is that time of year again.
French Culinary Judge Alfred Le Whisk
will arrive at your bistro
to taste your famous cheese soup
on the 2nd of June,
at one o'clock sharp,
Best regards as ever.
The Committe for the Best Cheese Soup in All of France"
Panic sounded a word literally too little and insignificant for trying to understand what happened at Chef Marcel.
The man, ops, sorry, mice, didn't have in fact the secret ingredient!!!
Just her little Petite Michelle, the latest one of his children will help him, the secret ingredient will be add and Judge Le Whisk satisfied after very stressing days! of palpitations.
And of course Chef Marcel won't forget this time Petite Michelle.
Not anymore...
Absolutely beauty, funny for the chaos eheheh, and cute!
I thank Netgalley for this funny children's book!
January 1, 2015
The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres is a charming and delightful picture book with the added bonus of teaching basic French vocabulary, focusing on restaurant related terms.
The actual story of the Bistro of Seven Brothers is prefaced with a pronunciation guide that is very user friendly, as tested by my 11 year old niece. She was able to decipher all of the words, though some of the guide did not lead to the French pronunciation that I learned in 1980’s high school French.
What follows is the story of an eventful day at a Paris bistro, with seven mice brothers and one sister all having their roles working under the head chef, their father. Whenever a kerfuffle occurs, the brothers are like dominos, as one’s upset triggers a chain reaction. Unruffled through everything is Petite Michelle, the younger sister and bistro hostess.
The artwork is dynamic and perfectly stylized, expressing personalities and enhancing the story. I particularly enjoyed the portrayal of Petite Michelle and the image of brother Jean-Michel adding pepper, le poivre, to the soup. French vocabulary is seamlessly included, and easily interpreted, as it is almost always next to the same term in English.
My 11 year old niece describes the book as cute and good for someone just learning how to speak French.
Adding to the fun of The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres are several activities available through the publisher’s website at www.tanglewoodbooks.com. We already have plans to make the famous cheese soup, sew up some fabric mice, and color the picture of Petite Michelle. There are also a few more educational resources within the activities. Definitely a picture book that I would recommend to parents and educators.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley who provided me with a free Read Now copy in exchange for an honest review.
The actual story of the Bistro of Seven Brothers is prefaced with a pronunciation guide that is very user friendly, as tested by my 11 year old niece. She was able to decipher all of the words, though some of the guide did not lead to the French pronunciation that I learned in 1980’s high school French.
What follows is the story of an eventful day at a Paris bistro, with seven mice brothers and one sister all having their roles working under the head chef, their father. Whenever a kerfuffle occurs, the brothers are like dominos, as one’s upset triggers a chain reaction. Unruffled through everything is Petite Michelle, the younger sister and bistro hostess.
The artwork is dynamic and perfectly stylized, expressing personalities and enhancing the story. I particularly enjoyed the portrayal of Petite Michelle and the image of brother Jean-Michel adding pepper, le poivre, to the soup. French vocabulary is seamlessly included, and easily interpreted, as it is almost always next to the same term in English.
My 11 year old niece describes the book as cute and good for someone just learning how to speak French.
Adding to the fun of The Mice of Bistrot des Sept Freres are several activities available through the publisher’s website at www.tanglewoodbooks.com. We already have plans to make the famous cheese soup, sew up some fabric mice, and color the picture of Petite Michelle. There are also a few more educational resources within the activities. Definitely a picture book that I would recommend to parents and educators.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley who provided me with a free Read Now copy in exchange for an honest review.
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