Word of Mouse

The friendships and communities formed by the characters sit at the core of the narrative. Isaiah’s story revolves around his longing for his lost family after he is left alone in the suburban neighborhood. His family is central to his motivations; he doesn’t celebrate his freedom once he escapes from the laboratory, but instead longs for his siblings and another chance to reunite with them. His thoughts constantly drift back to them. For example, during his first night outside the lab, he thinks about how this is the first time he’s truly been on his own: “As horrible as the Horrible Place was, at least we were together. I miss my brothers and sisters” (39). Even when Mikayla’s family takes him in, his commitment remains to his family. While the Brophy mischief does offer to adopt him, he asks that it only be a temporary adoption until he reunites with his biological siblings.

However, the narrative also demonstrates the power of found family. Over time, Isaiah’s view of family extends to include the Brophy mischief’s and their view of community. As stated by James the Wise when Isaiah asks for their help: “Leave no mouse behind” (223). Family comes first for them, and includes any mice that contribute to the community. For Mikayla, this idea of family is essential, leading her to open up to Isaiah and invite him to join the mischief. As the story goes on, Isaiah adopts this community-centric outlook, leading him to trust and value the other mice. In turn, he takes risks for them, such as when planning to save Gwindell from the mousetrap after she is caught. The mischief becomes his community, and through the food raids on the Brophy house, the authors showcase the power of working together for a common goal. For instance, the implementation of Isaiah’s “Operation Acorn” shows the mice’s ability when they collaborate. By using their combined strength and ingenuity to outsmart the human occupants, they gather enough food to sustain themselves.

Unity is a recurring idea throughout the story and shows how community efforts can achieve what individuals alone cannot. This is clearest in the rescue mission at the lab during the novel’s climax. The detailed planning and execution of the mission require the participation and coordination of countless mice, showcasing their ability to unite for a common cause when working together. Isaiah’s leadership, combined with the bravery and skills of his friends and family, results in the successful liberation of all of his siblings and the closing of the laboratory.

The power of community and friendship extends beyond just immediate community and even species. Hailey’s friendship with Isaiah is critical to the story. Initially, Isaiah is cautious around humans after experiencing cruelty in the lab. However, Hailey’s kindness and willingness to understand and help Isaiah and his family break down barriers. She provides a haven for him and Mikayla and crucial assistance during the rescue mission at the laboratory when she transports some of the mice and brings the police and ASPCA. Finally, she speaks up on the mice’s behalf during the Animal Blessing ceremony. Her actions show how friendship can bridge even the most significant divides.

Isaiah’s mentality of what people or animals can be friends is tested when, at the end of the story, he finds out about another lab experimenting on cats. Although cats are depicted as enemies throughout the book, as Abe points out, “[W]e’re all family” (282). Just as the congregation comes to accept the mice, so too do the mice have to recognize the cats as beings deserving of help. This closing note underscores the idea that friendship and community have power and can be used as an ultimate force for good.