Heartwood Hotel: A True Home by Kallie George
Series: Heartwood Hotel
Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin
Published by Disney-Hyperion
Date: 3 July 2017
Heartwood Hotel, is just as endearing as it sounds, taking me back to my childhood where you imagine animals such as Mona scurrying about, leading lives just like us humans, making friendships and finding “home”.
I was engaged in this book from the very beginning, and if it wasn’t for the fact that I needed sleep I would have read it straight through. Each character endearing…well perhaps not the wolves…but every other animal finding a place in my heart. It was one of those books that I was sad to see end…and then I discover it is just the beginning of the series, this gave me the biggest smile knowing that children can continue reading about Mona Mouse, Tilly, Mr Heartwood and the rest of the Heartwood Hotel staff and guests.
This story starts with a storm that sees Mona mouse trying to find her way to safety, when she happens upon Heartwood Hotel, a place that has more of a connection to her than she realises. Fortunately, hotel owner Mr Heartwood has a kind heart but the same cannot be said of Tilly the squirrel housekeeper, who sees Mona as nothing more than a threat. As we follow the adventures of the Heartwood Hotel and Mona we see that this little mouse has a beautiful heart and a talent for solving problems.
The characters are well developed and I can see as the series continues that we will get to know each character even more, I am particularly interested in learning about Mrs Higgins and being introduced to new guests. The main character Mona, is a strong mouse and displays confidence and courage, she is a wonderful role model for children.
This is altogether a beautifully crafted story in chapter book form that would make nice reading for ages 7 and above.
Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read and honestly review this book.
Little Big Reads 