A shy young mouse ventures outside her comfort zone in this sweet picture book classic in the making from the beloved author and illustrator of Tacky the Penguin.

Mousetta has never felt comfortable in her own fur. She likes to stay quiet and hidden, never brave enough to play with the other field mouse children who always seem to be having fun. The only way Mousetta can venture outside is by wearing a bucket on her head so she doesn’t have to worry about meeting anyone new.

But when foxes attack and the mice have to take cover, Bucket Head may be just what the others need—if only she can muster the courage to charge forward!

About The Author

Photograph (c) Teresa Lee Photography

Helen Lester

Helen Lester has written many hilarious and popular picture books, including the bestselling Tacky the Penguin series, Hooway for Wodney Wat, and Bravo, Bucket Head!. She lives in upstate New York. Visit her at HelenLester.com.

About The Illustrator

Photograph by Rachael Landrie

Lynn Munsinger

Lynn Munsinger has illustrated more than ninety books for children, many with her frequent collaborator Helen Lester. Lynn’s art has brought beloved characters like Wodney Wat, Tacky the penguin, Fluffy the porcupine, and Sparky the sloth and more to charming life. She lives in Vermont.

Why We Love It

“I have been a huge fan of Helen Lester and Lynn Munsinger since my bookselling days, when Tacky the Penguin and Hooway for Wodney Wat were my favorites to hand-sell because they made kids laugh uncontrollably. It’s an absolute delight to bring this talented duo to our list with a hilarious yet heartfelt book that shows their signature humor and sensitivity to the struggles of childhood.”

—Reka S., Editorial Director, on Bravo, Bucket Head!

Product Details

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (September 6, 2022)
Length: 32 pages
ISBN13: 9781534493506
Ages: 4 - 8
Lexile ® AD500L The Lexile reading levels have been certified by the Lexile developer, MetaMetrics®

Raves and Reviews

"Lester’s comic timing is right on cue, and Munsinger’s watercolors against bright white pages use lots of smaller panels to capture each moment of the story with humor and fun. This is a great read-aloud with lots of different opportunities for discussion."

– Horn Book Magazine

"This cute, humorous story, promoting the idea that shyness isn’t a flaw, could embolden skittish youngsters . . . The adorable watercolor illustrations are lively; the murine characters are full of personality. Sweet and reassuring as a self-esteem booster."

– Kirkus Reviews