This Is Mouse

November 17, 2014
With two previous sewing books (Socks Appeal and Sock It to Me!) under her belt, Maloney is well-positioned to create a worthwhile book on sewing for kids. Her effort is as charming as can be, combining clear instructions and adorable patterns with a series of stories about the titular protagonist. The book begins with a winning and short overview of sewing skills: “My editors tell me that it’s very important that I teach you the proper words for things,” she writes. Then readers will learn how to make Mouse as well as a cast of other characters (snakes, penguins, aliens) who appear in a jungle, at the North Pole, and in space. While the instructions are shown in step-by-step photos, the projects still might require an adult’s help. Maloney has cleverly designed projects that can be hand or machine-sewn, and that appear to be accessible to beginners. She notes at the beginning that the editors have allowed her to “write the books I always wanted to read.” She’s not alone; many other young sewists will want to read this one, too. Photographs, pattern pullouts.