Book Review of Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
The Children’s Book Review
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
Written by Robert C. O’Brien
Ages 9+ | 240 Pages
Publisher: Aladdin Paperbacks (1971) | ISBN-13: 9780689206511
What to Expect: Animals, Fantasy, and Science Fiction
The fascinating book Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is a literary masterpiece based on extensive scientific research conducted by Dr. John B. Calhoun at the National Institute of Mental Health between the 1940s and 1960s. The book is an exceptional achievement and has been awarded the highly coveted Newbery Medal, recognizing its exceptional quality and literary merit. Moreover, the story has also been adapted into an animated film, The Secret of NIMH, which has captivated audiences of all ages.
The novel takes readers on a thrilling adventure that revolves around the life of a widowed mouse named Mrs. Frisby, who is trying to protect her family from the imminent danger of a farmer’s plow. Unfortunately, one of her children, Timothy, is very sick, further complicating matters. Mrs. Frisby seeks help from a group of extraordinary rats that were once test subjects at the NIMH laboratory. These remarkable creatures possess exceptional abilities, such as reading and writing, which they use to devise a plan to save Timothy.
The story is a captivating and unforgettable read, filled with exciting twists and turns that will keep readers engaged from start to finish. Additionally, the novel is accompanied by black-and-white illustrations that transport readers into the world of Mrs. Frisby and her family.
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is an incredible book that has become a classic in children’s literature.
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About the Author
Robert C. O’Brien was born in Brooklyn, New York. He attended Williams College and graduated from the University of Rochester. He was a writer and editor for Newsweek, National Geographic, and other publications. He lived in New York City and then in Washington, DC, with his wife and four children. Z for Zachariah—which is now a major motion picture starring Margot Robbie, Chris Pine, and Chiwetel Ejiofor—was completed by his wife and daughter, with the help of his notes, after his death in 1973. He is also the author of Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH and The Silver Crown.
What to Read Next if You Love Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
- The Borrowers, by Mary Norton
- The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup, and a Spool of Thread, by Kate DiCamillo
- The Mouse and the Motorcycle, by Beverly Cleary
- The Silver Crown, by Robert C. O’Brien
Bianca Schulze reviewed Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. Discover more books like Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by reading our reviews and articles tagged with Animals, Fantasy, and Science Fiction.
