Lab life is the only life that Clementine, the very special mouse who can understand what humans are saying, has ever known. That is until, one of the researchers decides to save Clementine and her mouse lab partner and leaves them in a mailbox. Clementine writes mental letters to her only friend, Rosie a chimpanzee from the same lab. Will Clementine ever make it back to her friend Rosie and the only life she has ever known or will she find a new life?
The author creates a beautiful, heartfelt story within a story. Fans of Stuart Little, Abel’s Island, The Mouse and the Motorcycle, The One and Only Ivan and many other animal character stories will fall in love with Always Clementine. Readers in grades 3 through 5 will be able to identify not only with the mouse but also the boy and his grandfather who are trying to find their purpose in the world. The first- person letter style also makes the story more realistic and personal. This would make a great end of he day read aloud for elementary students. ( )