It is well worth revisiting this tale by Leo Lionni (1910–1999), a versatile artist—painter, graphic designer, writer, sculptor and illustrator—who, through an innovative vision and more than forty books, has had a great impact on children’s literature.

In The Greentail Mouse, a city mouse one day unsettles the calm routine of a band of country mice. In his stories, the city appears as a place that is always sad and perilous, except during Carnival, when it becomes enchanting and fun. Captivated by his account, the country mice decide to recreate the festival themselves, complete with trumpets, streamers, confetti and masks of wild beasts. Yet the masks prove unexpectedly disruptive. Worn by all, the mice are unable to recognise one another, and fear and suspicion begin to spread, eroding trust and upsetting the harmony of their community.

This story perfectly illustrates Lionni’s distinctive style. He is widely regarded as a pioneer of a new kind of book for young readers: modern fables in which the moral is subtle, and the underlying values celebrate individuality, cooperation and peace. A book to read and cherish—and not just at Carnival.

Reading age: from 4 years old

The Greentail Mouse

Leo Lionni

Babalibri, 2007