When Mino Took the Bus

The day comes when Mino the chipmunk reaches his seventh week and must leave his mother to find a place of his own. He has learned the bus route by heart and knows he must get off at the last stop where he will find his new home. Once on the bus, Mino is impatient to get to his destination and starts to chat to Guido, the bus driver, who tells Mino that he thinks the journey is just as important as the destination. As each new passenger boards the bus, Mino sits next to each in turn and each one teaches him something new. Time quickly passes as they share memories, bringing him safely to his destination.

This delightful, heartwarming story gently explores the mixture of anxiety and excitement felt by anyone who is facing change. As Mino sets off on his new journey, he makes new friends, appreciating each new moment and coming to understand how true Guido’s wise comment is. Mino is such an endearing character- full of enthusiasm and curiosity, he approaches each new passenger who gets onto the bus as a potential friend, making connections with others.

The illustrations are gorgeous. Mino’s big, soulful eyes gaze at those around him and each creature is full of personality from the elderly tortoise to the opossum family. Soft colours enhance the story, creating a cosy feeling as Mino discovers the joy of getting to know others and sharing the small joys of life, things that ‘linger on in everyone’s hearts’.

A very special story!

When Mino Took the Bus Simona Ciraolo

Flying Eye Books ISBN: 978-1838740887