"Arrr, 'tis a seaworthy tale, so set your compass toward fulfilling your dreams, and she'll not steer you wrong." --
Kirkus Reviews "Caldecott Medalist Cordell draws the gripping scenes that follow in sun-bleached blues and dense, delicate hatching that recalls old engravings." --
Publishers Weekly "Jonker taps into many children's delight in miniatures; they will thrill along with Mabel at her adventure. Cordell's scratchy ink and wash illustrations have a faded look, their sepias and pale blues giving the tale an old-timey feel. Sweet wish fulfillment."
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The Horn Book Magazine "With her plucky spirit and dreamy nature, Mabel would surely make a quick friend of Lobel's Frog and Toad, and the narrative whimsy is both charming and familiar."
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BCCB "Cordell's beguiling, shaded pencil drawings aptly portray the corageous mouse, the boy, and the man who built the beautifully crafted, seaworthy miniature ship. An enjoyable picture book and a memorable read-aloud choice." --
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