A NEW YORK TIMES BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR. 2025 USBBY Outstanding International Books. In a new series for early readers, Mousse receives an unexpected visit - and forms an unlikely friendship. Mousse loves his solitary life by the sea. In the mornings, he strolls on the beach to take in the fresh air. He swims in the cool water. And he waits for the tide to bring him the day's small treasures. Today, however, a visitor comes ashore in his living room, a truly unexpected visitor. A creature named Barnacle... In this delightfully illustrated picture book for early readers, Claire Lebourg depicts the unexpected pleasures in helping others and finding friendship in unexpected places.