Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is a beautifully descriptive story that combines the paradigm of conventional stories of talking animals with futuristic science fiction. Author Robert C. O’Brien who won the Newberry award for this enchanting book developed the plot in a direct sequence of beginning, middle, and end approach in exploring the solution to a problem.
Mrs. Frisby, a recently widowed field, mouse needs help. She needs to move her family to their summer home, but her son Timothy is ill and may not be able to survive the move. Mrs. Frisby solicits the help of the rats of NIHM, a scientifically altered race of rats. The rats of NIMH had received injections in a laboratory experiment. The injections made these rats larger, more intelligent and increased their life span. The rats have created their own advanced society complete with electricity and miniaturized tools. The rats agree to help Mrs. Frisby because of a NIMH connection to her late husband, Jonathan. The characters work together to find a solution that would benefit everyone.
The rats have a plan to become self sufficient. The superior group of rats is led by Nicodemus, who detests the idea of living by stealing from the resources of farmer Mr. Fitzgibbons. Their goal is to live as an advanced society where they can provide for themselves without eating garbage or stealing. In her attempt to save her son, Mrs. Frisby learns the scientists of NIMH are looking for the escaped rats. She is able to help the rats in their plan to move their society to a safe and remote valley.
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH explores the themes of relationships, loyalty, human interactions with
nature, and the social implications of technology. The book illustrates the interconnectedness in nature, and hints at dire consequences of meddling in the delicate balance.
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