Els Oot and the mapmaker

the long version

When the mapmaker of Tilley Pond goes missing, Els Oot the mouse, volunteers to look for him. When he didn't expect when he volunteered was that he would be traveling with the grumpy Ice Perka--whom folks around the Pond described as the "meanest person alive". With the help of an easily excitable bird, a nervous cricket and, unexpectedly, even the grumpy Ice Perka, Els begins a journey that takes him far from the safely of Tilley Pond. He discovers a world of challenges and dangers but also a world full of beauty, wonder and new friends that admire him for his kindness and steadfastness. Most of all, Els comes to learn about the strength of friendship and the magic that comes from following one's own heart and discovering one's calling in the world.