91 pages 3 hours read

Robert C. O'Brien

Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1971

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

In Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien, a field mouse named Mrs. Frisby seeks help from a group of intelligent rats to save her sick son, Timothy, from the imminent danger of the farmer's plow. The rats, who gained their abilities from scientific experiments, devise a plan to relocate the Frisby family's home to a safe spot, revealing their complex history and connection to NIMH.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Robert C. O'Brien's Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling, complex characters, and themes of intelligence and survival. The novel captivates readers with its intriguing plot and moral depth. Some criticism points to its dense narrative and mature themes that may challenge younger readers. Overall, it remains a remarkable children’s classic.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH?

Fans of animal tales and adventure with a touch of science fiction will enjoy Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien. Similar to Charlotte's Web and Watership Down, this book appeals to those who appreciate heartwarming, intelligent stories featuring resourceful animal characters.

RecommendedReading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

790L

Book Details

Genre

Fantasy

Children's Literature

Classic Fiction

Topics

Animals

Technology

Grief / Death

Themes

Society: Community

Values/Ideas: Science & Technology

Emotions/Behavior: Grief