Mole Is Not Alone

Starred review from August 21, 2023
An invitation to a party at Rabbit’s sets off an agony of indecision for Mole that will be familiar to any reader acquainted with social anxiety. Soft colors and ample speech bubbles by Tatasukawa (Sunday Pancakes) follow Mole’s ruminations. “Maybe I will have fun,” thinks Mole, lying in bed. A plan to make cream puffs takes shape, and Mole soon sets off along underground tunnels for Rabbit’s, box in paw. Then worry takes over: “I never know what to say... it’s always so awkward.” The closer Mole gets to Rabbit’s house, the more tension mounts as the twists and turns of Mole’s path mirror the back and forth of the animal’s resolve (“AHHHH! This was a terrible idea!”). Mole is not the only one who’s reluctant to brave the gathering, however, and readers will share Mole’s relief as another guest also acknowledges preferring a quieter time. Tiny touches in the spreads reward careful looking, from the neatly stored blueprints in Mole’s cozy underground refuge to cutaways that reveal other animals’ preparations—it’s a story about anticipatory worry that ends not with forced revelry, but with a “Maybe... next time?” and gentle camaraderie found. Ages 4–8. Agent: Wendi Gu, Sanford J. Greenburger Associates.

August 15, 2023
A mole struggles with social anxiety. "Should I actually go this time?" asks shy Mole upon receiving an invitation to Rabbit's Moon Harvest Party. Mole tries different tactics in an attempt to feel brave: envisioning a positive outcome, preparing a sweet treat to delight the other guests, and even bargaining. Still, Mole is consumed with doubt, and the little creature travels to the party through a series of underground tunnels that become increasingly twisty and complex--a lovely visual touch that reflects Mole's own emotions. Once aboveground, Mole finds a kindred spirit in Skunk, who's also ambivalent about attending the soiree. When Rabbit lets the two of them in, they both decide not to enter. Rabbit lets the pair know they are loved and appreciated no matter what, and Mole and Skunk find themselves having a good time on their own. After all, a party for two is still a party. Soft, muted artwork depicts an utterly cozy and enchanting world. The illustrations are filled with a trove of delightful details, from the books in Mole's chambers to hidden gems in the dirt surrounding the tunnels. Mole's self-talk ("I never know what to say..." "It's always so awkward") is endearing and all too relatable. Ultimately, Tatsukawa brings this tale to a satisfying conclusion that lets young introverts know that they can have fun on their own terms. (This book was reviewed digitally.) A sensitive, funny, yet deeply thoughtful exploration of difficult feelings. (Picture book. 3-8)

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Starred review from September 15, 2023
Preschool-Grade 2 A party: it's an introvert's nightmare, and Mole has just received an invitation to Rabbit's harvest moon party. Tucked in their cozy burrow that's filled with books and other creature comforts, Mole ponders, "Hmm . . . should I actually go this time?" And so the inner debate and self-talk begins. As Mole mentally runs through a list of scenarios well known to those with social anxiety ("But what if I only know Rabbit?"; "But what am I going to say?"), they get ready and begin the journey to Rabbit's, which takes them through tunnels that reveal cutaway glimpses of other animals' homes. A sweet plot twist results in a satisfying resolution and a new friend. Tatsukawa's adorable illustrations employ rubber stamps, handmade textures, and a muted palette, and her rounded figures and whimsical details would be at home on any nursery blanket, making the story's handling of social anxiety feel comforting and reassuring. Little ones sensitive to large gatherings will readily identify with Mole and appreciate Rabbit's understanding of their friend's disposition. A charming SEL offering.

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November 1, 2023

PreS-K-Shy Mole has been invited to Rabbit's Moon Harvest Party, but he's racked with anxiety about whether or not to go-"What if I only know Rabbit?" He gears up to go, but he reveals his self-doubt as he journeys to the party through underground tunnels, while other friendly-looking animals prepare for the party above ground. When he finally makes it to the party, he encounters a skunk who is also worried about going in, and the two decide to forego the party and have a comfortable tea together. Tatsukawa's beautiful pastel illustrations create a whimsical feel; kids will delight in the many details in the pictures, such as book titles and animal stores (i.e., Bobcat's Baguettes and Chipmunk Records). Kids will also love following the tunnels with their fingers, especially when they turn into mazes. VERDICT This sensitive story will delight party lovers and those with social anxiety alike-a charming addition to the SEL shelves. -Carrie Voliva

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