Mabel the mouse lives in a barn with her brothers and sisters and outside is the big, wide world. The other mice love exploring and playing outside but Mabel is afraid… of great big HAIRY things and teeny weeny scary things. In fact she’s afraid of everything outside. “I’ll just stay in here” says Mabel. “For ever!”

But when a dazzlingly beautiful rainbow appears outside in the sky, will Mabel dare to brave the outside world to get a better look? Out now with Otter Barry Books.  You can read more about making the characters for the book at the Federation of Children’s Book Groups.

“Jane Porter’s distinctive richly coloured, collage style illustrations together with Paul Stewart’s storytelling written from Mabel’s viewpoint make for a reassuring book to share with young children at home and in an educational setting.” Jill Bennett, Red Reading Hub

“A heart-warming picture book aimed at younger children who are feeling anxious and scared… The images in this book are stunning, with detailed collages of landscapes, flowers, and life in and out of the barn. Not only is this book about overcoming anxieties but it can also be used as a reference book for exploring the seasons.” School Reading List

“Jane Porter’s collage style scenes showing Mabel’s journey towards self-confidence are a great complement to the author’s telling.” Books for Keeps

This is my fourth book with Paul Stewart as author – you can find out more about the making of the book in this video.