Wilhelmina Under the Stairs is a middle-grade novel with a grade 4 reading level that lends itself to group readings as well as individual. The colorful illustrations encourage the listeners and readers to use their imaginations as they move through this delightful story which grew from the author's experience at their weekend home near Lexington, Virginia and her love of classic animal tales. Although a number of animal adventure stories feature mice as main characters this story, with its focus on rats, is just different enough to intrigue young readers, especially girls between ages 6 and 10. Along with the exciting, suspenseful plot, Wilhelmina Under the Stairs explores the universal issues of gaining independence, finding one's place in the world, developing friendships and romantic relationships, and learning the value of family and community.