The Stowaways by Meghan Marentette
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love everything about The Stowaways — from the beautiful Dean Griffiths painting on the cover to the bright red ribbon bookmark and the way that the book fits cozily in my hands. Even before opening it, I knew that it would take me back to a simpler time, and of classic children’s stories.
On one level, this is a straight adventure, about Rory, the younger twin brother, needing to prove to his family that he’s all grown up and dependable and that he will find their lost grandfather. There is sibling rivalry, bullying at school — all the things you’d expect in a book about kids, be they mouse kids or human.
But Marentette does some interesting things about stereotypes. The old people don’t sit on rocking chairs and snooze. They are action heroes. I also like how Marentette shows the baby sister also as having her own set of special talents. What a nice change for kids, to see that people (be they mouse or human) are active and vital regardless of their age.
Marentette also does interesting things with context. Just the thought of these little wee mice talking and thinking and going to school, making juneberry paste — makes you want to stop and think and consider every little thing. It’s also neat to think of the Stowaways’ entire world is the size of a city block. I loved small details of a thimble falling on the father’s head and getting stuck, a button becoming a bicycle wheel, escape by mail truck. All these instances of common things seen in different context is utterly neat to read.
And of course, what makes this book so enjoyable is that it is a page turner. We care about Rory and his family. We want them to find Grandfather. We want them to survive.
As I read this, I couldn’t help thinking what a fabulous movie this would be.
