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Clarice the Brave
The New York Times bestselling author of The Unwanteds brings us an epic animal adventure story perfect for fans of Pax and A Wolf Called Wander.Clarice is a young ship mouse grieving the loss of her mother when a mutiny forces her onto a small, leaky boat with a dangerous cat. Worse, she is separated from her younger brother, Charles Sebastian, who is trapped aboard the great ship. Clarice and Charles Sebastian were taught to always be careful—but they will need to grow bold if they are to survive . . . and find one another again.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2021
25 people are currently reading
3567 people want to read
About the author
Lisa McMann
59 books6,982 followersLisa McMann lives and writes in the Phoenix area. Her newest middle grade fantasy series is called The Forgotten Five. Book one, Map of Flames, was an instant NYT bestseller. It's about five supernatural kids, raised in a deserted hideout, who enter civilization for the first time to search for a hidden stash left behind by their missing, criminal parents.
Book two, The Invisible Spy, is on sale now! Book three, Rebel Undercover, is coming summer 2023, and book 4 will be out in spring of 2024.
Also out now: CLARICE THE BRAVE. It's a story of hope against all odds, about sibling mice who get separated in a mutiny and vow to find one another again.
Lisa's other books include the NYT bestselling THE UNWANTEDS and UNWANTEDS QUESTS series, the GOING WILD trilogy, the YA paranormal WAKE trilogy, the VISIONS trilogy, CRYER'S CROSS, DEAD TO YOU, and INFINITY RING: The Trap Door.
See what's new and where Lisa will be at her
LinkTree.
You can find more info at Lisa'a website, lisamcmann.com, interact with her on Facebook or Twitter, or ask questions on her Instagram.
Book two, The Invisible Spy, is on sale now! Book three, Rebel Undercover, is coming summer 2023, and book 4 will be out in spring of 2024.
Also out now: CLARICE THE BRAVE. It's a story of hope against all odds, about sibling mice who get separated in a mutiny and vow to find one another again.
Lisa's other books include the NYT bestselling THE UNWANTEDS and UNWANTEDS QUESTS series, the GOING WILD trilogy, the YA paranormal WAKE trilogy, the VISIONS trilogy, CRYER'S CROSS, DEAD TO YOU, and INFINITY RING: The Trap Door.
See what's new and where Lisa will be at her
LinkTree.
You can find more info at Lisa'a website, lisamcmann.com, interact with her on Facebook or Twitter, or ask questions on her Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
June 8, 2024
This book is recommended for ages 8-12 years.
I am gonna go on record right now, that is too young for this book.
I went in thinking it would be a cute story about a mouse on a pirate ship.
Look at that cover; adorable right?!
Wrong!
That is a smoke screen for murder, torture, betrayal, trauma and one very graphic scene of a chicken attack.
It's not a bad book, but it was not the sweet middlegrade I was expecting.
Should you want your tiny humans to read this I implore you to read it first to make sure your kiddo will not be up with nightmares for the next 7 months.
Special lady (one of the cats) was the sunshine of this book. Such a sassy and fun character.
I am gonna go on record right now, that is too young for this book.
I went in thinking it would be a cute story about a mouse on a pirate ship.
Look at that cover; adorable right?!
Wrong!
That is a smoke screen for murder, torture, betrayal, trauma and one very graphic scene of a chicken attack.
It's not a bad book, but it was not the sweet middlegrade I was expecting.
Should you want your tiny humans to read this I implore you to read it first to make sure your kiddo will not be up with nightmares for the next 7 months.
Special lady (one of the cats) was the sunshine of this book. Such a sassy and fun character.
October 17, 2022
Love this one.
“It only takes 1 mouse to believe in you. And that mouse is me.” Great words to live by!!
“It only takes 1 mouse to believe in you. And that mouse is me.” Great words to live by!!
June 2, 2022
“It only takes 1 mouse to believe in you. And that mouse is me.”
This is a quote that Clarice’s mom heard from her father which is then passed down to Clarice. Clarice holds onto these words as she tries to care for her brother Charlies, aboard a pirate ship. Clarice and Charles are the only two remaining members of their family. As mice living aboard a ship, daily life at sea, has claimed the lives of the rest of their family members. Living in fear, the brothers live in a wooden crate by the pantry, this is their home. Clarice travels out for supplies but Charles prefers to stay securely inside the box, waiting on Clarice, the provider.
I found myself immediately absorbed into this story as Clarice describes the world around her. The ship was full, as the humans were filling up all the available space. They consisted of two groups of people: the crew/captain and the prisoners. Fighting erupts on the ship and the brothers hear the word, mutiny. What does this word even mean?
The brothers soon find out as Clarice finds himself in a smaller boat with some of the individuals from the ship and Special Lady. Packed with sailors, a mouse, and a cat, this boat which has been cast out into the sea, does have the captain aboard, which gave me some hope. Meanwhile, Charles is still aboard the ship. Charles the mouse who doesn’t like to move out his box needs to do something to stay alive without his brother.
Will the brothers ever be reunited again? What happens to the brothers as they float out in the sea in two different vessels? What a good adventure story, a story of friendship and family, a story that will stay with you.
This is a quote that Clarice’s mom heard from her father which is then passed down to Clarice. Clarice holds onto these words as she tries to care for her brother Charlies, aboard a pirate ship. Clarice and Charles are the only two remaining members of their family. As mice living aboard a ship, daily life at sea, has claimed the lives of the rest of their family members. Living in fear, the brothers live in a wooden crate by the pantry, this is their home. Clarice travels out for supplies but Charles prefers to stay securely inside the box, waiting on Clarice, the provider.
I found myself immediately absorbed into this story as Clarice describes the world around her. The ship was full, as the humans were filling up all the available space. They consisted of two groups of people: the crew/captain and the prisoners. Fighting erupts on the ship and the brothers hear the word, mutiny. What does this word even mean?
The brothers soon find out as Clarice finds himself in a smaller boat with some of the individuals from the ship and Special Lady. Packed with sailors, a mouse, and a cat, this boat which has been cast out into the sea, does have the captain aboard, which gave me some hope. Meanwhile, Charles is still aboard the ship. Charles the mouse who doesn’t like to move out his box needs to do something to stay alive without his brother.
Will the brothers ever be reunited again? What happens to the brothers as they float out in the sea in two different vessels? What a good adventure story, a story of friendship and family, a story that will stay with you.
July 12, 2022
There was some deep meaning in this book that I have a feeling children the age targeted would not truly understand. For that reason, I would think reading it with an adult would be preferred. There are certainly some good lessons between the covers. And are we ever too old to read children's fiction?
August 11, 2022
This had a great idea for a story but I was deeply disappointed and left to skimming the pages, searching for the meat that held it all together.
Before l critique, I caveat by saying books that have a “stranded-at-sea” focus always lose my attention very quickly. So this may not be a fault of this particular author or story but my own style preference getting in the way.
However, my biggest issue was that everything took so long to get anywhere. One hundred pages with repetitive, internal worries from the main character. One hundred pages before the dialogue showed any inkling of enhancing the story. I was very surprised at how sad and traumatizing the events and details were for a Children’s novel (especially in the first 100 pages).
Secondly, the first person narrative was jarring when every 3 or more chapters focus would switch to third person narrative, showcasing story of which the main character (narrator) would be completely unaware.
Finally, my biggest problem was the climax. Clarice (the narrator/main character), upon finally reaching her goal, abandons all of her natural characteristics in a plot point that seems only for the purpose of giving us more drama. And then from that drama, comes a deep sadness. And then a sudden joy from the skeptical bait-and-switch.
Overall, I would not read this again and I would be very hesitant to recommend to any youth. Perhaps the only youth inclined to this story would be those appreciating mental panic, lengthy narrative and frightening circumstances.
Before l critique, I caveat by saying books that have a “stranded-at-sea” focus always lose my attention very quickly. So this may not be a fault of this particular author or story but my own style preference getting in the way.
However, my biggest issue was that everything took so long to get anywhere. One hundred pages with repetitive, internal worries from the main character. One hundred pages before the dialogue showed any inkling of enhancing the story. I was very surprised at how sad and traumatizing the events and details were for a Children’s novel (especially in the first 100 pages).
Secondly, the first person narrative was jarring when every 3 or more chapters focus would switch to third person narrative, showcasing story of which the main character (narrator) would be completely unaware.
Finally, my biggest problem was the climax. Clarice (the narrator/main character), upon finally reaching her goal, abandons all of her natural characteristics in a plot point that seems only for the purpose of giving us more drama. And then from that drama, comes a deep sadness. And then a sudden joy from the skeptical bait-and-switch.
Overall, I would not read this again and I would be very hesitant to recommend to any youth. Perhaps the only youth inclined to this story would be those appreciating mental panic, lengthy narrative and frightening circumstances.
October 13, 2021
Q:
“There’s only the sky between us,” (c)
Q:
“What if we fail?” I said, feeling faint. “What if we run when we should hide?” (c)
Q:
“He said, ‘It only takes one mouse to believe in you. And that one mouse is me.’ ” (c)
Q:
“I can’t let all the mice go, now, can I? What kind of cat would I be if I started introducing mice to each other?” (c)
Q:
I taught my brother to be watchful of birds, and he told me that albatrosses are lucky. I explained that the lizards and turtles were not interested in us, so they were safe, and he explained how to take a chicken down by the wattle. I showed him how to find dew on the leaves in the morning before we went to sleep, and where the best berries grew, and how to dig under logs for tasty insects. And he taught me that Benjelloun would feed us if we ever lacked for anything. He’d managed to play the runt card with a human. And it worked. Not that I was complaining. (c)
Q:
If there’s one thing a mouse needs, it’s friends who believe in her. (c)
“There’s only the sky between us,” (c)
Q:
“What if we fail?” I said, feeling faint. “What if we run when we should hide?” (c)
Q:
“He said, ‘It only takes one mouse to believe in you. And that one mouse is me.’ ” (c)
Q:
“I can’t let all the mice go, now, can I? What kind of cat would I be if I started introducing mice to each other?” (c)
Q:
I taught my brother to be watchful of birds, and he told me that albatrosses are lucky. I explained that the lizards and turtles were not interested in us, so they were safe, and he explained how to take a chicken down by the wattle. I showed him how to find dew on the leaves in the morning before we went to sleep, and where the best berries grew, and how to dig under logs for tasty insects. And he taught me that Benjelloun would feed us if we ever lacked for anything. He’d managed to play the runt card with a human. And it worked. Not that I was complaining. (c)
Q:
If there’s one thing a mouse needs, it’s friends who believe in her. (c)
September 19, 2021
Full disclosure - Lisa McMann and I go back a long way and I was lucky enough to read an early draft of this book. It's been a while since then and I couldn't wait to get my hands on the finished version. It was even better. There is so much heart in this book that is part Life of Pi meets Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH. This book is for any kid (or grown up) who has ever worried they were worthy of someone else believing in them.
I read this during what feels like month twelve-thousand of Covid-19 and it was a lovely respite from the real world. Perfect to put into small hands that are tired of the world on fire and need a bit of a vacation - may as well make it at sea.
I read this during what feels like month twelve-thousand of Covid-19 and it was a lovely respite from the real world. Perfect to put into small hands that are tired of the world on fire and need a bit of a vacation - may as well make it at sea.
August 25, 2023
Dreadful. Full disclosure: I read about half and then skimmed the rest. For a kids’ mouse book, this was surprisingly dark, sad, anxiety-riddled, and depressing. The humans are cruel and odd (there are males and females, but almost no femininity; with so much realism otherwise, that sat strangely with me). Yes, there’s some grit and hope and heroic self-sacrifice toward the end, and the prose is decent, but the tone was really off-putting to me.
November 16, 2021
This was a book I knew I needed to read the moment I saw that cover. Because it is way too cute. And I loved that it was a story about a mouse. I have been a fan of Lisa for years, though I am also many years behind on reading her books. Oops. But I own pretty much all of them. This one I simply could not wait to begin.
And I could not have been happier about this book. Giving it four stars, and oh, how much I loved it. It was such a cute story. But also so very evil and full of sadness at times. I even cried near the ending. So rude. But then it gave me so much joy as well. I adored these animals way too much. So yes. I loved this book.
Will begin by saying that the writing was pretty lovely and I had no trouble connecting to this story. It is a book told mostly from the point of view of Clarice, a small mouse living on a ship. And a little from her brother too, Charles Sebastian. But this story is for the most part about Clarice. And I loved this mouse to pieces. They used to be a bigger mouse family living in the pantry of this ship. But they have lost their family one by one. Their sister to one of the three cats, and their mother to the waves, just a week before this book begins. And so Clarice and Charles Sebastian are all alone and not sure how they will manage to survive, when the rest of their family did not. To make things even worse, the sailors are talking about mutiny. A word they do not know.
But these two small mice are soon to know what that word means, as it will change their world. Once the sailors start with their mutiny against the captain, they make him and his supporters leave on a smaller boat. Giving them a little food to survive, which include the crate Clarice and her brother are living in. She stays in this crate, while it is lifted off the ship. But Charles Sebastian always runs when there is danger, and he ran out of the crate. And so they were separated, he still on the large ship, her leaving on a boat.
Which is what this adventure is all about. These two small mice trying to find each other again. Without being able to do a thing about it. All they can do is listen to the humans, trying to figure out what they are planning. And there was a whole lot of planning. It was interesting to see what Clarice thought about it all, how the humans were to her. This is her story. But we learn about them too, and their mutiny. There are lots of deaths. One I thought was sad, but also not that much, because he kind of deserved it. Ha. Sorry.
We see a little of Charles Sebastian, still on the ship. He has lost track of the pantry, not sure how to find it again. And we get to see him trying to survive on his own for the very first time. As his family always did everything for him. And I loved seeing him grow braver on his own. He also starts a small friendship with a human girl, a prisoner of these mutineers. I felt so badly for her. And I loved that he helped her a little, at least. I did adore this little boy mouse. He was cute and pretty brave at times too. I liked his story a lot.
But yeah. The star of this book was Clarice. And also Special Lady. One of the three cats, who ended up on the small boat with Clarice. This book takes place over many weeks. There are weeks of starving and barely surviving. Many of the sailors did not make it. But Clarice and Special Lady did. Since they helped each other. And I loved that beyond words. Cats and mice are enemies. Special Lady even ate her sister. They hated each other. But on this small boat, they needed each other. And that was the very best thing.
The sailors did not feed the cat. Which made me want them all to die. Hmph. So rude. But Clarice fed her. She was able to sneak food from the sailors and give to the cat. Keeping her from dying, all those weeks at sea. And Special Lady helped Clarice get water that she couldn't find on her own. I so loved reading about these two becoming friends. Of them connecting and starting to care for each other. It was what I loved most about this book. Sigh. Of course, it was full of other great things too, but that was my favorite.
Not going to say much more about this story. Took me a few days to read it, as I can barely read right now, but it was a really fast read and can easily be read in a few hours. I know I would read this book again. The ending hurt me. But it was also so good. There is so much going on. And I so loved every moment. Claire the Brave was just the kind of book I needed. Full of adventure and danger. The most beautiful friendship between a cat and a mouse. I loved it a whole lot. And you all need to read this too.
---
This review was first posted on my blog, Carina's Books, here: https://carinabooks.blogspot.com/2021...
And I could not have been happier about this book. Giving it four stars, and oh, how much I loved it. It was such a cute story. But also so very evil and full of sadness at times. I even cried near the ending. So rude. But then it gave me so much joy as well. I adored these animals way too much. So yes. I loved this book.
Will begin by saying that the writing was pretty lovely and I had no trouble connecting to this story. It is a book told mostly from the point of view of Clarice, a small mouse living on a ship. And a little from her brother too, Charles Sebastian. But this story is for the most part about Clarice. And I loved this mouse to pieces. They used to be a bigger mouse family living in the pantry of this ship. But they have lost their family one by one. Their sister to one of the three cats, and their mother to the waves, just a week before this book begins. And so Clarice and Charles Sebastian are all alone and not sure how they will manage to survive, when the rest of their family did not. To make things even worse, the sailors are talking about mutiny. A word they do not know.
But these two small mice are soon to know what that word means, as it will change their world. Once the sailors start with their mutiny against the captain, they make him and his supporters leave on a smaller boat. Giving them a little food to survive, which include the crate Clarice and her brother are living in. She stays in this crate, while it is lifted off the ship. But Charles Sebastian always runs when there is danger, and he ran out of the crate. And so they were separated, he still on the large ship, her leaving on a boat.
Which is what this adventure is all about. These two small mice trying to find each other again. Without being able to do a thing about it. All they can do is listen to the humans, trying to figure out what they are planning. And there was a whole lot of planning. It was interesting to see what Clarice thought about it all, how the humans were to her. This is her story. But we learn about them too, and their mutiny. There are lots of deaths. One I thought was sad, but also not that much, because he kind of deserved it. Ha. Sorry.
We see a little of Charles Sebastian, still on the ship. He has lost track of the pantry, not sure how to find it again. And we get to see him trying to survive on his own for the very first time. As his family always did everything for him. And I loved seeing him grow braver on his own. He also starts a small friendship with a human girl, a prisoner of these mutineers. I felt so badly for her. And I loved that he helped her a little, at least. I did adore this little boy mouse. He was cute and pretty brave at times too. I liked his story a lot.
But yeah. The star of this book was Clarice. And also Special Lady. One of the three cats, who ended up on the small boat with Clarice. This book takes place over many weeks. There are weeks of starving and barely surviving. Many of the sailors did not make it. But Clarice and Special Lady did. Since they helped each other. And I loved that beyond words. Cats and mice are enemies. Special Lady even ate her sister. They hated each other. But on this small boat, they needed each other. And that was the very best thing.
The sailors did not feed the cat. Which made me want them all to die. Hmph. So rude. But Clarice fed her. She was able to sneak food from the sailors and give to the cat. Keeping her from dying, all those weeks at sea. And Special Lady helped Clarice get water that she couldn't find on her own. I so loved reading about these two becoming friends. Of them connecting and starting to care for each other. It was what I loved most about this book. Sigh. Of course, it was full of other great things too, but that was my favorite.
Not going to say much more about this story. Took me a few days to read it, as I can barely read right now, but it was a really fast read and can easily be read in a few hours. I know I would read this book again. The ending hurt me. But it was also so good. There is so much going on. And I so loved every moment. Claire the Brave was just the kind of book I needed. Full of adventure and danger. The most beautiful friendship between a cat and a mouse. I loved it a whole lot. And you all need to read this too.
---
This review was first posted on my blog, Carina's Books, here: https://carinabooks.blogspot.com/2021...
January 24, 2024
4.5 🌟 “It only takes one mouse to believe in you, and that one mouse is me.” 😭 I was not expecting this book to be as good as it was. The unlikely friendships in this story were so heartwarming and the ending had me, a 23 year old at the edge of my seat! Definitely recommend to readers of all ages!
February 21, 2024
I adored this book. Read it on the recommendation of a student, but was totally captivated by the story. Great theme and lessons to be learned for middle grade readers. The vocab and story telling may be a bit complicated for some, but this would make an engaging read aloud I believe!
October 18, 2021
Clarice the Brave is an adventure told from two points of view. Clarice, whose narrative takes up about two-thirds of the book, is told in first person. This gives readers a true sense of her personality, as well as her strengths and weaknesses. Charles Sebastian’s story unfolds through a third person narrative, allowing readers to see beyond his thoughts and observations. It’s an interesting approach that seems to support the characters’ natures and helps separate the action.
Though Lisa McMann’s characters and their relationships are well-drawn, I never really connected with them. Clarice’s repetitive ruminations really slowed down the narrative, making me feel as though I was pushing through rather than savoring the novel.
Of course, this is all subjective. I recommend checking the book out from the library or reading a sample excerpt prior to purchasing to ascertain whether it’s a good fit.
Though Lisa McMann’s characters and their relationships are well-drawn, I never really connected with them. Clarice’s repetitive ruminations really slowed down the narrative, making me feel as though I was pushing through rather than savoring the novel.
Of course, this is all subjective. I recommend checking the book out from the library or reading a sample excerpt prior to purchasing to ascertain whether it’s a good fit.
September 22, 2021
Thank you so much Lisa for blessing me with an e-arc of this beautiful book. 14 year old me would never believe present me if I told her that her favorite author of all time trusted her to have this story early. Here we are though! I won’t spoil since the book is not officially out yet.
This book was full of adventure, but I love how it was about family and how you should never give up. I never thought I would ever love a book with a talking animal in it, especially a little mouse, but Lisa has this way of making the animals she writes feel so real and full of emotion. They feel human but in a good way. Clarice absolutely stole my heart, and I was fully rooting for her the whole time. I love how this book follows pirates as well. Again, Lisa has a talent for also writing pirates. The humans were side characters in this story, which I never thought I would say I love a story with just human side characters and animal main ones, but Lisa continues to blow me away with every book she publishes. Every single page in this book gripped me, and it was such a page turner. I had to see how Clarice would pull off this major feat!
Maybe my review is a bit biased, but I honestly don’t care about that. If I had to pick anyone who I look up to, the person who inspires me to be a better person and to follow my dreams, it’s her 1000%. Just the fact that she sent me this story and trusted me with it makes me feel so emotional. Go pick up Clarice the Brave ASAP when it comes out! You won’t regret picking up this middle grade adventure.
This book was full of adventure, but I love how it was about family and how you should never give up. I never thought I would ever love a book with a talking animal in it, especially a little mouse, but Lisa has this way of making the animals she writes feel so real and full of emotion. They feel human but in a good way. Clarice absolutely stole my heart, and I was fully rooting for her the whole time. I love how this book follows pirates as well. Again, Lisa has a talent for also writing pirates. The humans were side characters in this story, which I never thought I would say I love a story with just human side characters and animal main ones, but Lisa continues to blow me away with every book she publishes. Every single page in this book gripped me, and it was such a page turner. I had to see how Clarice would pull off this major feat!
Maybe my review is a bit biased, but I honestly don’t care about that. If I had to pick anyone who I look up to, the person who inspires me to be a better person and to follow my dreams, it’s her 1000%. Just the fact that she sent me this story and trusted me with it makes me feel so emotional. Go pick up Clarice the Brave ASAP when it comes out! You won’t regret picking up this middle grade adventure.
August 27, 2022
NOT flat-out grand; but jeez… Wound up sobbing a time… or two…
My Full Review →
My Full Review →
February 6, 2024
Redo review!
This book has got to have a 6 star button, but sadly, it doesn't :(
The story it tells is between a mouse and a cat, stranded on a ship. There's so much good fellowship written in these pages, I was getting The Fellowship (of the Ring) vibes!
There were so many good lines in this book, not to mention, and I've probably read it three times. I want a second book!! But then again, it's perfect as a stand alone <3
It's a must read, my friends!
This book has got to have a 6 star button, but sadly, it doesn't :(
The story it tells is between a mouse and a cat, stranded on a ship. There's so much good fellowship written in these pages, I was getting The Fellowship (of the Ring) vibes!
There were so many good lines in this book, not to mention, and I've probably read it three times. I want a second book!! But then again, it's perfect as a stand alone <3
It's a must read, my friends!
January 27, 2023
I saw an article in Illustrators Quarterly about the marvelous artwork of Antonio Caparo. Caparo apparently specializes in illustrating children's books. The paintings shown in the magazine were impressive. But alas, there is no book available of Caparo's artwork. I checked the library catalog for Caparo - and found Clarice the Brave. Caparo painted the excellent cover art, and also contributed about a dozen full page pencil drawings for the interior. My only regret is that the interior art was not in color.
When I reviewed Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH , I commented on the number of children's books that star a mouse. Clarice the Brave is another mouse tale. The heroine is Clarice, a young mouse who lives on board the sailing ship Carlotta. Unfortunately for Clarice, there are three cats on board - Special Lady, Marigold, and Robin, and now Clarice's family has dwindled to just herself and her shy brother, Charles Sebastian. The two mice live hidden in a crate in the pantry of the ship, scrounging for food scraps. They overhear crew members muttering quietly about a "mutiny", but the mice do not know what that word means. But they quickly find out.
The mutineers strike, and their scheme is a success. The captain and his loyalists are forced into a small boat, and given a few crates of supplies which might be enough to last them to a safe harbor. Unfortunately, one of the crates that is selected to be placed in the captain's boat is the one where Clarice and Charles Sebastian live! Even worse, the evil cat Special Lady is prowling the deck, so Charles Sebastian runs from the crate in a panic, chased by the cat. One of the sailors sees Special Lady, and scoops her up and tosses her down into the captain's boat - she is his favorite cat. Charles Sebastian is not eaten, but Clarice finds herself on a crowded small boat, which includes a cat, while her brother is still aboard the Carlotta. As the Carlotta sails away, Clarice vows that she will be reunited with Charles Sebastian some day.
Clarice must face her immediate perils. She can hide in the crate, but she needs water, and it is difficult to be stealthy when the small boat is so populated with humans. The captain insists he knows how to sail to Kingsland, yet for weeks the small boat is adrift in the vast ocean. They suffer from heat and thirst, only saved by periodic storms, which unfortunately threaten to swamp the boat. Clarice must use her wits to survive.
The narrative jumps back and forth between the separate plights of Clarice and Charles Sebastian. Charles Sebastian finds himself alone on the ship, and he is unfamiliar with the layout, having lived hidden in the pantry most of his short life. The cats Marigold and Robin are still on board the Carlotta, and there are terrifying chickens running around loose on the deck. Oddly, one of the humans, a young female sailor, Benjoullon, is left in a cage on deck. Dare a mouse befriend a human?
When I reviewed Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH , I commented on the number of children's books that star a mouse. Clarice the Brave is another mouse tale. The heroine is Clarice, a young mouse who lives on board the sailing ship Carlotta. Unfortunately for Clarice, there are three cats on board - Special Lady, Marigold, and Robin, and now Clarice's family has dwindled to just herself and her shy brother, Charles Sebastian. The two mice live hidden in a crate in the pantry of the ship, scrounging for food scraps. They overhear crew members muttering quietly about a "mutiny", but the mice do not know what that word means. But they quickly find out.
The mutineers strike, and their scheme is a success. The captain and his loyalists are forced into a small boat, and given a few crates of supplies which might be enough to last them to a safe harbor. Unfortunately, one of the crates that is selected to be placed in the captain's boat is the one where Clarice and Charles Sebastian live! Even worse, the evil cat Special Lady is prowling the deck, so Charles Sebastian runs from the crate in a panic, chased by the cat. One of the sailors sees Special Lady, and scoops her up and tosses her down into the captain's boat - she is his favorite cat. Charles Sebastian is not eaten, but Clarice finds herself on a crowded small boat, which includes a cat, while her brother is still aboard the Carlotta. As the Carlotta sails away, Clarice vows that she will be reunited with Charles Sebastian some day.
Clarice must face her immediate perils. She can hide in the crate, but she needs water, and it is difficult to be stealthy when the small boat is so populated with humans. The captain insists he knows how to sail to Kingsland, yet for weeks the small boat is adrift in the vast ocean. They suffer from heat and thirst, only saved by periodic storms, which unfortunately threaten to swamp the boat. Clarice must use her wits to survive.
The narrative jumps back and forth between the separate plights of Clarice and Charles Sebastian. Charles Sebastian finds himself alone on the ship, and he is unfamiliar with the layout, having lived hidden in the pantry most of his short life. The cats Marigold and Robin are still on board the Carlotta, and there are terrifying chickens running around loose on the deck. Oddly, one of the humans, a young female sailor, Benjoullon, is left in a cage on deck. Dare a mouse befriend a human?
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October 31, 2021What happens when a little mouse named Clarice, who's only known life on a ship, gets wrapped up in a mutiny? CLARICE THE BRAVE by Lisa McMann weaves an adventurous tale about mice and cats and their struggle to survive the treacherous actions of humans.
Clarice was born on a ship. Life hasn't always been easy. She lost her mother and her sister, but not before she learned some valuable lessons she knows will serve her well. Now it is just her and her brother Charles Sebastian. They manage to find food and water despite the onboard cats and chickens that present constant dangers.
One day some of the humans on the ship stage a mutiny against the captain. In mere moments Clarice is being thrown off the ship into a small boat along with the captain, some of his loyal crew, and a cat named Special Lady. As the small boat drifts away from the ship, Clarice realizes that her brother is still on the larger vessel. He is not the most resourceful mouse, leaving Clarice to fear the worst.
Clarice uses her cleverness to stay hidden from the humans while at the same time befriending the cat. She never imagined that her survival would depend on making friends with one of her worst enemies, but Clarice finds life is full of surprises.
Back on the ship Charles Sebastian faces his own challenges. Learning quickly becomes his only chance for survival. Both mice wonder if they will ever be reunited or sail off in different directions to lives of their own.
Author Lisa McMann deftly handles the connections between the human and animal world with unexpected friendships and acts of courage that will have readers glued to the pages of this wild adventure. The narration alternates between Clarice and Charles Sebastian so readers are kept on the edges of their seats as the battle to survive unfolds. Perfect for middle grade classrooms and libraries everywhere.
Clarice was born on a ship. Life hasn't always been easy. She lost her mother and her sister, but not before she learned some valuable lessons she knows will serve her well. Now it is just her and her brother Charles Sebastian. They manage to find food and water despite the onboard cats and chickens that present constant dangers.
One day some of the humans on the ship stage a mutiny against the captain. In mere moments Clarice is being thrown off the ship into a small boat along with the captain, some of his loyal crew, and a cat named Special Lady. As the small boat drifts away from the ship, Clarice realizes that her brother is still on the larger vessel. He is not the most resourceful mouse, leaving Clarice to fear the worst.
Clarice uses her cleverness to stay hidden from the humans while at the same time befriending the cat. She never imagined that her survival would depend on making friends with one of her worst enemies, but Clarice finds life is full of surprises.
Back on the ship Charles Sebastian faces his own challenges. Learning quickly becomes his only chance for survival. Both mice wonder if they will ever be reunited or sail off in different directions to lives of their own.
Author Lisa McMann deftly handles the connections between the human and animal world with unexpected friendships and acts of courage that will have readers glued to the pages of this wild adventure. The narration alternates between Clarice and Charles Sebastian so readers are kept on the edges of their seats as the battle to survive unfolds. Perfect for middle grade classrooms and libraries everywhere.
November 22, 2021
A remarkable story of a brave young ship mouse’s journey to survive and unite with those she loves.
An absolute thrilling read! We follow the views of two ship mouse siblings namely, Clarice and Charles Sebastian. Both are separated due to unfortunate circumstances and learn to become brave, believe in themselves, and trust in others even if they’re your natural enemy.
The book follows mainly Clarice’s view which is written in first person, giving the reader a full view of her emotions and situations. Charles Sebastian’s view is written in third person depicting his struggle to survive in various circumstances so he could one day unite with his sister. Although written in different perspectives, the writing flows seamlessly almost like poetry. Also, the cute character images at the beginning of each chapter denote which character’s story we’re visiting.
The art in this book is also beautiful. It complements the story in all the right places in the right amount.
Starting off with a key word both siblings heard while on the ship together – mutiny – they soon learn what it means. Struggling to survive and listening to the humans to understand what they’re planning and doing. Clarice’s views and perspectives were interesting to read about and it was very brave of her to befriend the cat, Special Lady. I loved reading about these two become best friends and each putting their life on the line for the other.
There are a lot of dark and hard topics in this book, including betrayal, sickness, trauma, death, torture and abandonment. The author does a great job by including them in a way that doesn’t leave a lasting mark but also leaves an important message behind.
Overall, I absolutely loved this story. It was a thrilling adventure and I cheered for both Clarice and Charles Sebastian to find their way to each other. Special Lady was really just like her name ‘special’ and I loved her relationship with Clarice and her patience. I recommend this adventure to everyone! It’s a story about friendship, about love and about believing in yourself and others.
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An absolute thrilling read! We follow the views of two ship mouse siblings namely, Clarice and Charles Sebastian. Both are separated due to unfortunate circumstances and learn to become brave, believe in themselves, and trust in others even if they’re your natural enemy.
The book follows mainly Clarice’s view which is written in first person, giving the reader a full view of her emotions and situations. Charles Sebastian’s view is written in third person depicting his struggle to survive in various circumstances so he could one day unite with his sister. Although written in different perspectives, the writing flows seamlessly almost like poetry. Also, the cute character images at the beginning of each chapter denote which character’s story we’re visiting.
The art in this book is also beautiful. It complements the story in all the right places in the right amount.
Starting off with a key word both siblings heard while on the ship together – mutiny – they soon learn what it means. Struggling to survive and listening to the humans to understand what they’re planning and doing. Clarice’s views and perspectives were interesting to read about and it was very brave of her to befriend the cat, Special Lady. I loved reading about these two become best friends and each putting their life on the line for the other.
There are a lot of dark and hard topics in this book, including betrayal, sickness, trauma, death, torture and abandonment. The author does a great job by including them in a way that doesn’t leave a lasting mark but also leaves an important message behind.
Overall, I absolutely loved this story. It was a thrilling adventure and I cheered for both Clarice and Charles Sebastian to find their way to each other. Special Lady was really just like her name ‘special’ and I loved her relationship with Clarice and her patience. I recommend this adventure to everyone! It’s a story about friendship, about love and about believing in yourself and others.
Read more reviews @ Mystic's Review Shelf
November 9, 2021
First sentence: Mutiny. I'd heard that word before.
Premise/plot: For those that enjoy--even love--animal fantasy I'd recommend Lisa McMann's Clarice the Brave. This children's fantasy takes place mainly at sea--mainly. It stars two young mice--brother and sister--Clarice and Charles Sebastian. Life on board ship is HARD and full of dangers. Humans and cats pose the greatest risk--though the natural elements of wind, waves, storms pose a risk as well. But what will happen to these two when DISORDER breaks out on ship? Mutiny spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E. When Clarice and Charles Sebastian are separated--by circumstances beyond their control--can either survive long enough to find the other?! The book follows both Clarice and Charles Sebastian in alternating chapters. (Or I believe they are alternating equally.)
My thoughts: I definitely enjoyed this one. I personally found it hard to keep track of the alternating narrators. I wish that the book had better signals or indicators to let readers know with confidence who was narrating. I found myself searching for clues and context--anything to help me clarify if it was Clarice or Charles Sebastian.
Reading is subjective. And sometimes you read a book with several distractions going on that the author is not to blame for. That could be the case here. I'd have to reread this one later to see. Since I mostly enjoyed it more than not, that isn't out of the question.
I think Clarice the Brave would make a lovely animated film. I do.
I thought Special Lady was a GREAT cat. I was very, very, very, very angry with the book for a couple of chapters. Think CHARLOTTE'S WEB upset.
I loved the recurring message. It only takes one mouse to believe in you. And that one mouse is me.
Premise/plot: For those that enjoy--even love--animal fantasy I'd recommend Lisa McMann's Clarice the Brave. This children's fantasy takes place mainly at sea--mainly. It stars two young mice--brother and sister--Clarice and Charles Sebastian. Life on board ship is HARD and full of dangers. Humans and cats pose the greatest risk--though the natural elements of wind, waves, storms pose a risk as well. But what will happen to these two when DISORDER breaks out on ship? Mutiny spells T-R-O-U-B-L-E. When Clarice and Charles Sebastian are separated--by circumstances beyond their control--can either survive long enough to find the other?! The book follows both Clarice and Charles Sebastian in alternating chapters. (Or I believe they are alternating equally.)
My thoughts: I definitely enjoyed this one. I personally found it hard to keep track of the alternating narrators. I wish that the book had better signals or indicators to let readers know with confidence who was narrating. I found myself searching for clues and context--anything to help me clarify if it was Clarice or Charles Sebastian.
Reading is subjective. And sometimes you read a book with several distractions going on that the author is not to blame for. That could be the case here. I'd have to reread this one later to see. Since I mostly enjoyed it more than not, that isn't out of the question.
I think Clarice the Brave would make a lovely animated film. I do.
I thought Special Lady was a GREAT cat. I was very, very, very, very angry with the book for a couple of chapters. Think CHARLOTTE'S WEB upset.
I loved the recurring message. It only takes one mouse to believe in you. And that one mouse is me.
October 29, 2021
The adventure begins right away in this new book by author Lisa McMann. This will be the book you want to get your middle grade reader for Christmas 2021 or as a fantastic family read aloud. Unlikely friendships, action, pirates and so much more!
Clarice and her brother, Charles Sebastian, are mice who have spent their entire lives aboard a pirate ship. Their mother has recently passed away and now the brother and sister are doing their best to be brave. The two become separated when a few pirates mutiny. Clarice ends up with the captain and those remaining faithful to the captain. Charles Sebastian is still on the pirate ship with the mutineers. Now they have to be brave for each other and do all they can to find one another. Clarice becomes friends with a cat while Charles Sebastian becomes friends with a human, these friendships would have never happened had they never been separated. As the reader you will learn a lot about friendship from these four, especially to be kind to others no matter what. We all need to be brave and help others in order to find happiness in our live and peace in the world.
A family motto of Clarice and Charles Sebastian is shared throughout perhaps we should all begin following it "It only takes one mouse to believe in you, and that mouse is me." Their mother said this to Clarice and she shared ti with Charles Sebastian....let's believe in each other.
Clarice and her brother, Charles Sebastian, are mice who have spent their entire lives aboard a pirate ship. Their mother has recently passed away and now the brother and sister are doing their best to be brave. The two become separated when a few pirates mutiny. Clarice ends up with the captain and those remaining faithful to the captain. Charles Sebastian is still on the pirate ship with the mutineers. Now they have to be brave for each other and do all they can to find one another. Clarice becomes friends with a cat while Charles Sebastian becomes friends with a human, these friendships would have never happened had they never been separated. As the reader you will learn a lot about friendship from these four, especially to be kind to others no matter what. We all need to be brave and help others in order to find happiness in our live and peace in the world.
A family motto of Clarice and Charles Sebastian is shared throughout perhaps we should all begin following it "It only takes one mouse to believe in you, and that mouse is me." Their mother said this to Clarice and she shared ti with Charles Sebastian....let's believe in each other.
October 29, 2021
Beautiful, Heartwarming Book About Friendship and Family
Wow! Just wow! I will admit I nearly DNF this because the first few chapters didn’t leave an impression on me...when it got good it got good though! This book is great for all ages and really teaches values, something missing from a lot of literature these days. I’m so glad I read it.
This story is about a mouse, named Clarice, who has to learn to be brave when she gets separated from her runt brother Charles Sebastian. She finds out that she’s stuck on a tiny boat with the cat that killed their sister Olivia, the evil Special Lady. The story follows Charles Sebastian’s point of view and Clarice’s (mainly hers). You can tell who’s POV it is based on the little picture at the beginning of each chapter. I loved how we really did feel like we got a mouse’s POV of the world. The big themes in the story are bravery, believing in loved ones, friendship in unlikely scenarios (just wow on this, beautifully done), and family bonds. This book earned all 5 stars in my eyes because of the powerful messages and the great storyline after it got going.
Wow! Just wow! I will admit I nearly DNF this because the first few chapters didn’t leave an impression on me...when it got good it got good though! This book is great for all ages and really teaches values, something missing from a lot of literature these days. I’m so glad I read it.
This story is about a mouse, named Clarice, who has to learn to be brave when she gets separated from her runt brother Charles Sebastian. She finds out that she’s stuck on a tiny boat with the cat that killed their sister Olivia, the evil Special Lady. The story follows Charles Sebastian’s point of view and Clarice’s (mainly hers). You can tell who’s POV it is based on the little picture at the beginning of each chapter. I loved how we really did feel like we got a mouse’s POV of the world. The big themes in the story are bravery, believing in loved ones, friendship in unlikely scenarios (just wow on this, beautifully done), and family bonds. This book earned all 5 stars in my eyes because of the powerful messages and the great storyline after it got going.
August 16, 2022
I didn't love this book, but I can see some of my upper elementary students loving it. The beginning was a bit slow and repetitive but I eventually settled into the story and was able to finish it relatively quickly. I was a little confused by who we were supposed to be rooting for - the mutineers or the captain - because none of the sailor characters were very likable at all and I never quite figured out the purpose of the mutiny. I did enjoy watching the unique relationship between Clarice and Special Lady develop. I also really enjoyed Charles Sebastian and his relationship with Heyu's sister (I don't have my book handy, I can't for the life of me remember how to spell her name :P ) but felt like we only got glimpses of it and I would have enjoyed reading more of his story and experiences on the ship. There was so much more peril, trauma, loss and death than I expected in juvenile fiction, and I think that would make this a difficult and unenjoyable read for some sensitive kids, but the adventure of it all combined with the animal characters will make this appealing to a lot of upper elementary readers.
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October 15, 2021Publisher Weekly recommends this book for ages 8 and up.
The only good cat is a fed cat. Clarice, a young ship mouse, knows this to be true. She and her brother, Charles Sebastian, were taught to be careful--as all mice are--but caution is no match for the sea, which took their mother, and it is certainly no match for Special Lady, the horrid cat who ate their sister. Now the siblings hide in their pantry crate, knowing every move they make could be their last. When a shocking mutiny forces Clarice onto a small, leaky boat with Special Lady and a dozen hungry sailors with deadly boots, Charles Sebastian is left on the ship to fend off mutineers, a flock of irate chickens, and an inquisitive human prisoner--a mouse's worst enemy. Being careful may have saved them in the past, but now Clarice and Charles Sebastian will need to grow bold if they are to survive . . . and keep their promise to find one other again. Readers will delight in this unforgettable adventure filled with perseverance, kindness, and hope.
The only good cat is a fed cat. Clarice, a young ship mouse, knows this to be true. She and her brother, Charles Sebastian, were taught to be careful--as all mice are--but caution is no match for the sea, which took their mother, and it is certainly no match for Special Lady, the horrid cat who ate their sister. Now the siblings hide in their pantry crate, knowing every move they make could be their last. When a shocking mutiny forces Clarice onto a small, leaky boat with Special Lady and a dozen hungry sailors with deadly boots, Charles Sebastian is left on the ship to fend off mutineers, a flock of irate chickens, and an inquisitive human prisoner--a mouse's worst enemy. Being careful may have saved them in the past, but now Clarice and Charles Sebastian will need to grow bold if they are to survive . . . and keep their promise to find one other again. Readers will delight in this unforgettable adventure filled with perseverance, kindness, and hope.
March 3, 2022
My 8-year-old daughter and I read 'Clarice the Brave' together. We loved the adventures at sea, and I was impressed with the realism of nautical life during the story's time period. It actually made me want to read the Master and Commander books and read other nautical genre books. The story is touching (and heartbreaking at times). My daughter and I were booth moved by the friendship between Clarice and Special Lady. The way their friendship builds is believable, and we rooted for their friendship to remain strong. Without giving anything away, I do want to warn you that you might cry. There were a couple chapters toward the end that I'm sure my daughter could barely understand what I was reading because I was sobbing so much.
July 26, 2021
Mutiny is a word Clarice had heard before but didn’t fully understand until is was happening around her. In the middle of the chaos, Clarice is separated from her only remaining family member, Charles Sebastian. Clarice promises to find Charles Sebastian again but how is that possible when everything seems to be going wrong and there is a cat who threatens your very existence?
In her first book after wrapping up The Unwanteds series, Lisa McMann has done a fantastic job of sharing the ups and downs of an unlikely friendship, the power of hope, and the unique bond of family.
“It only takes one mouse to believe in you, and I am that mouse.”
In her first book after wrapping up The Unwanteds series, Lisa McMann has done a fantastic job of sharing the ups and downs of an unlikely friendship, the power of hope, and the unique bond of family.
“It only takes one mouse to believe in you, and I am that mouse.”
October 15, 2021
Honestly, I did heavily enjoy this book. It was more of my style since it focused a lot on sibling + trauma/grief related themes in comparison to romance or love triangles. I really loved the characters too! They were all pretty developed even in the span of 300 pages. And cats! There are cats, and I love them. (Special Lady in particular!!) However, be prepared for lots of sadness mwahah😈 (and some slight gore, but that is quite normal coming from this particular author) If you’ve read Wings of Fire/Warrior Cats or Watership Down, I think you’d like this book. Or if you just like animal stories in general, lol. I’d rate it a 9/10!
(Received a physical arc in early July, tysm Lisa)
(Received a physical arc in early July, tysm Lisa)
January 31, 2022
Clarice is a young mouse who is just trying to survive on a ship with her younger brother, Charles Sebastian. Their mother was recently taken by the sea, and their sister was eaten by one of the cats on the ship. When some of the sailors stage a mutiny, Clarice is suddenly separated from Charles Sebastian, and stuck with one of the cats, Special Lady. Though separated, the two mice decide to do all they can to survive, in hopes of finding each other again.
A cute adventure that my children enjoyed. My kids ended up cheering for Clarice and Charles Sebastian to find one another. They even grew to like Special Lady.
A cute adventure that my children enjoyed. My kids ended up cheering for Clarice and Charles Sebastian to find one another. They even grew to like Special Lady.
February 13, 2022
this book was really good! I will admit, it sat on my currently reading for weeks because I was in a slump and just not really in the mood. I have a bunch on my stack right now and it was time to finish it. It doesn't really speak to the quality of the book that it took so long, just me being off.
This book tugs at heartstrings and I was tearing up over it at points. The sibling relationship is great and Special Lady is so amazing. This is one I will be recommending often to my middle grade readers. I enjoyed this book now and I think anyone at the perfect age who loves animal stories will really love this one.
This book tugs at heartstrings and I was tearing up over it at points. The sibling relationship is great and Special Lady is so amazing. This is one I will be recommending often to my middle grade readers. I enjoyed this book now and I think anyone at the perfect age who loves animal stories will really love this one.
March 6, 2022
3-7 grade, friendship, family, bravery
Clarice, and her brother, Charles Sebastian are ship mice. Mutiny is a word that is whispered around the ship. When it happens, Clarice and her brother are split up and Clarice makes an oath to find her brother. Their stories, told in separate chapters, show that you never know what strength lies within. And you never know who will become your friends.
A book of blind faith, perseverance, rethinking your beliefs, and action will keep the reader vested in the book all the way through. No draggy parts in this book. A real tear jerker.
"It only takes one mouse [person] to believe in you, and that mouse [person] is me. "Clarice and CS's mother.
Clarice, and her brother, Charles Sebastian are ship mice. Mutiny is a word that is whispered around the ship. When it happens, Clarice and her brother are split up and Clarice makes an oath to find her brother. Their stories, told in separate chapters, show that you never know what strength lies within. And you never know who will become your friends.
A book of blind faith, perseverance, rethinking your beliefs, and action will keep the reader vested in the book all the way through. No draggy parts in this book. A real tear jerker.
"It only takes one mouse [person] to believe in you, and that mouse [person] is me. "Clarice and CS's mother.
July 30, 2022
What a sweet, special book! From the moment I laid eyes on the cover, I knew I had to read this book. I couldn’t get it out of my head. So I went back to the store and bought the hardcover…something I rarely do because hardcovers are just so expensive…but man, am I glad I did! I loved this book! From the brave little mice to the daring cat, what a truly wonderful read. And did I mention it has pictures?! Gorgeous, sweet illustrations spaced just so far out that you’ll keep reading just to get to the next one. This book is a treasure I know I will pull out and read again and again. Bravo Lisa McMann, this is an AMAZING book! 💙☠️
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