Published by Holiday House

Summary:  Young mouse Hubert Cumberbun loves stories and can often be found at the branch (in a tree) library.  One day, a blizzard hits when he’s there, and Hubert has to find his way home through the hollow.  A kind woman appears, offering to lead him, and together they make a journey that grows increasingly spooky.  Trees and rocks appear to have faces, and a gatefold page shows a large bear with two frightened-looking cubs.  They make it to a familiar lamppost, and Hubert strikes out on his own.  When he turns back to say thank you, the woman is gone, and he can only see his own footprints.  He finally makes it home, where his family is gathered around the fire drinking hot chocolate and reading books.  “Welcome home,” says his mother.  “It looks like you have a new story for us.”  40 pages; ages 4-8.

Pros:  A deliciously creepy tale with gorgeous snowy artwork and a reassuringly cozy ending.

Cons:  As I’ve no doubt mentioned before, I have mixed feelings about those fragile gatefold pages in the library.