The latest in a series of gentle and humorous stories by acclaimed author and illustrator team Joyce Dunbar and James Mayhew.

Perfect for fans of Kenneth Grahame.

Contains three stories:

A Fresh Start
Mouse and Mole try to give their friendship a fresh start but realise they can’t go without seeing each other, even for a day.

Hip-Dip-Dip
When Mole is unable to decide which toy boat he likes best, Mouse suggests ‘hip-dip-dip’ to help him make his choice.

A Bolt from the Blue
Mouse and Mole try to avoid a storm by running, crawling and sitting it out, until they realise it’s impossible to know when a bolt from the blue will strike and to make the best of their situation.

Books in the series:

• Mouse & Mole
• Mouse & Mole: Have a Party
• A Very Special Mouse & Mole
• Happy Days for Mouse & Mole
• Mouse & Mole: A Fresh Start
• Mouse & Mole: The Secret of Happiness
• Mouse & Mole: Lo and Behold
• Mouse & Mole: Boo to the Who
• Mouse and Mole: What Might Have Been
• Mouse and Mole: Moments of Friendship

Joyce Dunbar is a prolific children’s author who has published over 80 books, translated into 20 languages. Joyce has also written many stories for radio and television and contributed to several anthologies. The Mouse and Mole series remain some of her most treasured work.

James Mayhew is an illustrator and author of children’s books, a storyteller, artist and concert presenter/live art performer. His works include the much-loved and bestselling Katie and Ella Bella Ballerina series, as well as the classic children’s story The Knight Who Took All Day, republished by Graffeg in 2017, the Gaspard the Fox series, with author Zeb Soanes, and Koshka’s Tales – Stories from Russia, republished by Graffeg in 2019.

'The two cohabiting animals are characters that stand alongside the greats of children's literature'

Sunday Telegraph

'This cosy pair enjoy the gentlest of Kenneth Grahame-style adventures, making plans for picnics, overindulging in roast chestnuts and toasted muffins, and trying and failing to get rid of excessive clutter; the perfect antidote to real-world worry.'

Imogen Russell Williams, The Guardian

'The simple, funny, sometimes poignant text of Joyce Dunbar sits alongside the wondrous full-colour illustrations of James Mayhew gracing every page; with exquisite detail and expression creating illustrations that take the reader directly into the world of Mouse and Mole...and trust me, you'll want to stay there. Wonderful, wonderful tales that will win the hearts of children and adults alike; quietly joyous (and don't we all need that?). Simply timeless.'

Mary Esther Judy, Fallen Star Stories

'This absolutely delightful picture book series will no doubt enchant a new generation of young readers. And who couldn’t be enchanted by the wonderful adventures of Mouse and Mole so beautifully told and illustrated? The narrative captures the exploits and humour to be found in their daily life perfectly – from deciding what to eat to tidying up to even just having a chat. Each spread features wonderful illustrations bringing to life these simple adventures just as you imagine them to be. Warm and comforting as the softest blanket, Mouse and Mole should be on every child’s bookshelf ready to be enjoyed independently or shared with a grown up!'

The Book Activist

'Join Mouse and Mole, the best of furry friends on their adventures. Whether it's planning for a picnic or toasting muffins or tidying their chaotic house, children will be charmed by the series of gentle and witty stories. Children will recognise the familiar ups and downs of friendship and immediately relate to their breakups and makeups. The richly illustrated book is perfect for fans of Wind in the Willows and Brambly Hedge.'

Zoe James-Williams, South Wales Evening Post