The Mitten

Written & illustrated by Jan Brett

A lost mitten becomes a cozy refuge for woodland animals, leading to a surprising climax.

5.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 95,198 ratings

32 pages

$15.99Save 6%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Nicki loses his white mitten in the snow, unaware that it becomes a snug haven for a parade of woodland creatures. As each animal, from a mole to a bear, squeezes in, the mitten stretches to its limits. But when a tiny mouse joins, the unexpected happens, creating a humorous twist. Meanwhile, Nicki wanders through the woods, oblivious to the unfolding adventure. This charming tale, rich with Ukrainian tradition, invites readers to discover what happens when nature's creatures find warmth in an unlikely place.

"The mole, the rabbit, the hedgehog, and the owl were not pleased. There was no room left, but when they saw his diggers, they gave him the thumb."

— from the book

From the publisher

The bestselling modern classic, in an oversized board book edition perfect for sharing.

When Nicki drops his white mitten in the snow, he goes on without realizing that it is missing.

One by one, woodland animals find it and crawl in; first, a curious mole, then a rabbit, a badger and others, each one larger than the last. Finally, a big brown bear is followed in by a tiny brown mouse and what happens next makes for a wonderfully funny climax.

As the story of the animals in the mitten unfolds, the reader can see Nicki in the borders of each page, walking through the woods unaware of what is going on.

In her distinctive style, Jan Brett brings the animals to life with warmth and humor, and her illustrations are full of visual delights and details faithful to the Ukrainian tradition from which the story comes.

At a glance

Format
Pages: 32
Reading age: 4–8
Audience: Picture
Lexile: 600L

Themes & topics

Books about sharing Books about the world Books about animals Books about lost and found possessions Books about mittens

What readers & critics say

Reviews

5.1

out of 7

4.5

“This is a shortened version of the classic for board book form, so it's important to know that going in. The illustrations are the same, but the text has been chopped quite a bit, and in my personal opinion, lost some of its charm.”

Marmee

Trusted reviewer

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