Daniel Kelly – Novel: Ben the Post-Mouse

Ben the Post-Mouse by Emily Rodda is a children novel with illustrations by Andrew Mc Lean. The book tells the story of Ben the Post-Mouse who, after long days at work, finds himself feeling lonely and without friends. Ben attempts to solve this problem by searching for pen pals.  After a short time Ben accumulates a huge number of pen pals before realising that he already spoke to everyone as he delivered the mail, and all of these people considered themselves a friend of Ben.

 

The text is simple and enjoyable to read. There is a certain rhythm to the text. Dialogue is simple and is only really used to express what is said and occasionally how.  The illustrations are excellent. They are used to portray the emotions of the characters as the story progresses. Occasionally the illustrations provide a vague understanding of the story’s setting.  Mc Lean uses charcoal wash to create the illustrations.

This story would appeal to the young reader, who is facing the challenges of early education and friendship. It highlights that even though you may not realise that people value you and are your friend people are always there and everyone is important.