Local author Ed Shankman has done it again with a heartwarming tale that’s as inspiring as it is fun to read aloud. Lucas the Little Longhorn and the Legend of Meadow Mouse Pete is a story that reminds young readers—and all of us—that “you don’t have to be big to make big dreams come true.”
Lucas dreams of creating a beautiful ranch in Texas, and with the help of his friends—including the tiniest of them all, Meadow Mouse Pete—the dream starts to take shape. Pete may be small and often “dodging everybody’s feet,” but when the time comes to place the all-important weather vane on the roof, Lucas knows exactly who’s “big enough, tall enough, and tough enough” for the job. In a moment that will make kids cheer, Pete is lifted by his friends to the rooftop, proving that even the smallest can stand tall when it matters most.
What makes this book sparkle is Shankman’s brilliant use of rhythm and rhyme, which makes the story flow like music. It’s funny, heartfelt, and full of life lessons: teamwork, believing in yourself, and celebrating the strengths of every friend, no matter their size.
This is not just a story—it’s a legend in the making. With engaging illustrations and a message that will resonate with children and parents alike, Lucas the Little Longhorn and the Legend of Meadow Mouse Pete deserves a spot on every family’s bookshelf. It’s a joyful reminder that big dreams often start with little steps (or tiny paws!).
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — A funny, beautifully written story packed with warmth and wisdom, perfect for bedtime reading, classrooms, or anytime you need a boost of heart and humor.- Cheryl Lachendro Macaroni Kid Merrimack Valley and North Shore
