Mice: A Complete Pet Owner's Manual

Rating:
Summary: Useful, Incomplete and Ocassionally Misleading
Review: Bielfeld's books isn't bad. It has more depth than most of the books on mice out there. It isn't written for elementary school students acquiring a first pet who might have been reading only 1-3 years. However, this still isn't sufficient as the only book you'd need if you have pet mice. While it goes into genetics, the material is not helpful (either for someone just starting out with no understanding of genetics or someone who is past the basics and wants more information about genetics and mice). The information (and drawings) on mice condos is entertaining but very misleading--it is not true that mice won't leap/jump to the floor (I've seen them do it plus youngsters in the "flea stage" accidently take some great falls). So the housing section has problems. Some of the more basic questions that a first-time mouse owner would want to know (how much to feed mice? what kind of bedding to use?) this book ducks. While there are a lot of pages on breeding, they are of no use to either a first-time owner with an accidental litter wondering how to keep the pregnant doe healthy or what to do/not do with the litter or someone interested in intentionally mating mice for several litters. While there is an extensive section on healthcare and disease, I found it to be of no use because it's so general. Common problems mouse owners may often encounter aren't mentioned while other issues I haven't seen in 3 years of mouse breeding are covered.

In summary, this book has more detail and depth than many of the other mouse books out there in the mass public. But is insufficient as a sole resource for first-time mouse owners. And those seeking more advanced information (on genetics, care of colonies, breeding) will be disappointed by the lack of specificity.

Rating:
Summary: Wonderfully written, beautifully illustrated book.
Review: This book is a fantastic guide to the world of pet mice. It is simply said, and easy enough for young readers to understand. I, myself am only 13 years old! But "Mice" should be one of any pet lover's favorite books. It is highly informative and has fantastic photos and drawings that match the text. Great reading!!!