The Greentail Mouse

Reach for this book when your child starts to lose themselves in pretend play or becomes genuinely frightened by costumes, masks, or makeup. It is a perfect tool for navigating the blurry line between imagination and reality. This classic fable tells the story of a group of peaceful field mice who, inspired by stories of Mardi Gras, decide to dress up as fierce animals. However, their costumes and behavior become so realistic that they forget they are actually gentle friends, leading to a sense of fear and confusion. Leo Lionni uses his signature collage art to explore how we can explore different identities without losing our core selves. It is a sophisticated but accessible choice for preschoolers and early elementary students who are learning to regulate their emotions during high-energy social situations like Halloween or birthday parties.