Review of Archibald's Swiss Cheese Mountain

If you are looking for an award-winning children's book, look no farther. This well-written and engagingly illustrated storybook will capture and keep your grandchild's attention. Archibald the mouse is big enough to start taking care of himself, but his inexperience gets him into a couple of tight spots. Wise Momma Mouse teaches him well, but doesn't rescue him when the going gets tough. This large-format picture book is perfect for reading aloud with preschool and young school-aged grandkids.

Archibald Mouse is old enough to go out into the world and find his own food. Momma Mouse has taught him a number of lessons, including using his whiskers to measure the size of a hole before trying to go through. Needless to say, Archibald doesn't remember all of Momma's instructions, but the combination of his own good sense and Momma's teaching enables him to navigate the world outside his mousehole.

Children will identify with the character of Archibald, who is by turns brave and intimidated, obedient and independent, clever and forgetful. The book is a great inspiration for children to explore the world on their own and pursue their dreams while all the time using common sense and remembering sage advice. Isn't that the direction we want for our children and grandchildren?

Another lesson that we want to teach our children and grandchildren is giving to others. Author Sylvia Lieberman donates a portion of the sales of this book to two non-profits, Feed the Children and Variety: The Children's Charity.

Illustrator Jeremy Wendell captures Archibald's personality aptly, depicting his excitement, dismay, delight and satisfaction as he experiences the world on his own. He uses a variety of techniques and perspectives to enable his readers to see the world through Archibald's eyes.

Archibald and the Big Swiss Cheese Mountain won a number of awards in 2008, including Best Children's Book from the Hollywood Book Festival, Dr. Toy's Best Picks New Product Winner, Best Cover Art from YouPublish.com, Best Children's Book of the London Book Festival and Atlanta Parent Must-Read Books.

Why Especially Suited for Reading With Grandchildren

Like the best children's books, Archibald and the Swiss Cheese Mountain teaches lessons without being preachy. It validates family relationships while demonstrating that life's greatest tests must be faced alone.