Amos & Boris
By William Steig
The Story
A mouse sets sail on a homemade boat, falls overboard far from land, and is saved by a passing whale — starting a friendship that will one day call the mouse back to return the favor.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's convinced a friend can come in any shape or size, this one puts a mouse and a whale side by side and asks what actually makes two creatures kin.
- Big idea: Real friendship isn't about being alike — it's about showing up for each other when it matters most.
- Vibes: Quiet, tender, and a little wondrous, with the vastness of the sea always in the background.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy animal friendships that cross unlikely boundaries
- are working on understanding that gratitude means giving back
- respond well to gentle, reflective stories rather than fast-paced action
- love the sea and creatures who live in it
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: How did Boris help Amos when he was drowning in the ocean?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Amos felt when he first realized Boris had saved his life?
- Real-life connection: Have you ever made a friend who seemed nothing like you at first?
- Imagination: What do you think it would feel like to ride on a whale's back?
- Story & problem-solving: Why do you think it mattered so much to Amos to help Boris later on?
