The Borrowers by Mary Norton

While growing up, it seems like the little people featured in this book were a normal part of my life. I don't ever remember reading this original story, but I do remember a movie and later a cartoon. And, I remember my grandmother being the one to introduce me to this miniature population. The concept of little people alone, living in the walls of my home, was absolutely wonderful. It was an easy excuse if you were ever missing anything!!

In case you are not familiar with the Borrowers, they are a small people that live in the walls or floors in your home. Maybe they can even be found in a tiny hole found in your hearth or possibly even in your backyard amongst the burrowing animals. Who knows?!?! They are a vain group, believing that us "bigs" are here to serve them. Afterall, they live off of everything we lose or forget. For example, postage stamps may serve as art on the walls, matchboxes may be turned into beds, or our crumbs dropped on the floor may be a full meal for an entire "little" family. Not hard to believe really, especially for the young minds that this book targets! I believed when I was a child! Why not this new generation?

I really loved this book, maybe for sentimental reasons. This was the beginning of the many stories that were fond childhood memories of mine. I am still wondering how I ever missed this book until now, but am thankful that I have re-discovered this lost treasure of a story, just in time for my kids to begin believing! And, the most exciting news is that Norton wrote many more "little" adventures! I cannot wait to get my hands on those!