Ferruzzi shines a light on oceanic pollution issues in this watery adventure, incorporating educational facts with a fast-paced storyline that teaches young readers the importance of environmental cleanup. Along the way, they’ll learn fun facts about mice and whales from the additional resources included in the back half of this engaging story—like the tidbit that mice eat 10-15 percent of their body weight daily, or that blue whales hunt smaller prey because their throats are only a few inches wide.

Young readers will be drawn in by Stu Suchit’s multi-textured illustrations, particularly Malcolm’s flashy clothes (a plaid dinner jacket and mismatched bow tie complete his fine dining attire) and carefully side swept hair. The juxtaposition of a tiny city mouse with an immense whale highlights the heartfelt message that no matter how big or small, anyone can make an impact on the world, and, by working together, we can “find a solution for ocean pollution.” In the backmatter, Ferruzzi includes pointers for decreasing plastic waste, healthy eating tips, and a brief lesson on sustainability, accompanied by none other than a handful of Malcolm’s favorite recipes, like a fruit and vegetable based super smoothie. This fun tale will spark creative problem solving in readers of all ages.

Takeaway: An aquatic adventure with an important message about ocean pollution.

Comparable Titles: Stephanie O'Connor's The Whale Who Ate Plastic, Michelle Lord's The Mess That We Made.

Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: B+
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A