Tag Archive | The Magic Of Mister Mishkins

Nero The Hero by Samantha Mattocks

Jun25

Helping Others

Nero The Hero by Samantha Mattocks is a delightful children’s book and just perfect for six years and over. It is the first book in a new series which promises to be very charming.

We meet Nero the hero who is a very special dog. He is the latest in a long line of Schnauzers who can communicate with their owners, and who are on high alert for those who are in trouble.

Twelve-year-old Jack meets Nero when he spends the summer holidays with his grandmother. The heroics of Nero rub off on Jack, as he too, wants to rescue others. We see that although Jack does indeed, perform a heroic act, he then needs rescuing!

The novel teaches us the value of kindness and care. We need to look out for others, and help where we can.

Nero The Hero is beautifully illustrated by Gerda Smit. She really brings Nero to life.

It was lovely to meet up with Mister Mishkins, the hero of his own series. The message of the book says that although we may be different – a dog and a cat – we can still be friends.

Continue reading →

The Magic Of Mister Mishkins

Sep20

Paw Pact

The Magic Of Mister Mishkins by Samantha Mattocks is a beautiful contemporary offering for children aged six years and over. It is the second book in The Magical Mister Mishkins series but can be read as a stand-alone.

The story surrounds Mister Mishkins and the many cats who live with him in his apothecary. Mister Mishkins is part Maine Coon, suffering from a common complaint of hip dysplasia. He is a caring cat who knows exactly what people want when they appear at his shop.

The book is about helping those in need. “Mosaic Street, and Mister Mishkins Apothecary was only ever found by those who needed their fears calmed or worries banished.” It is mainly children who come to Mister Mishkin’s door. For each child, there is a cat waiting to take them on an adventure and calm their fears. We see the lonely; the hurting; the frustrated; those with a fear of spiders or heights. With the help of a cat, children face their fears and overcome them, being able to live in freedom.

Continue reading →