91 pages • 3 hours read
Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH
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Book Brief
240
Novel • Fiction
Countryside • Early 1970s
1971
Middle grade
8-12 years
790L
Super Short Summary
In Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien, a field mouse named Mrs. Frisby seeks help from a group of intelligent rats to save her sick son, Timothy, from the imminent danger of the farmer's plow. The rats, who gained their abilities from scientific experiments, devise a plan to relocate the Frisby family's home to a safe spot, revealing their complex history and connection to NIMH.
Mysterious
Adventurous
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
184,819 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Robert C. O'Brien's Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH is celebrated for its imaginative storytelling, complex characters, and themes of intelligence and survival. The novel captivates readers with its intriguing plot and moral depth. Some criticism points to its dense narrative and mature themes that may challenge younger readers. Overall, it remains a remarkable children’s classic.
Who Should Read Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH?
Fans of animal tales and adventure with a touch of science fiction will enjoy Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH by Robert C. O'Brien. Similar to Charlotte's Web and Watership Down, this book appeals to those who appreciate heartwarming, intelligent stories featuring resourceful animal characters.
184,819 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Nicodemus
Nicodemus
The wise and dignified leader of an intelligent rat colony, who speaks with Mrs. Frisby about the past and their plans for a self-sustaining future.
Justin
Justin
A brave and charming rat who plays a key role in both the rats' escape from NIMH and in assisting Mrs. Frisby with her predicament.
Mr. Ages
Mr. Ages
A wise and knowledgeable medicine mouse who provides crucial medical help for Timothy and guidance to Mrs. Frisby.
Jenner
Jenner
A former friend of Nicodemus whose disagreement with the rat colony's moral direction leads him to leave in search of his own path.
Jonathan Frisby
Jonathan Frisby
Mrs. Frisby’s deceased husband, remembered fondly for his intelligence, bravery, and secretive past connected with the rats.
Timothy Frisby
Timothy Frisby
The intelligent and frail youngest son of Mrs. Frisby, whose illness prompts his mother to seek assistance from the owl and the rats.
The Owl
The Owl
A large, imposing, and wise bird who lives in the forest and provides crucial advice to Mrs. Frisby about seeking help from the rats.
Jeremy
Jeremy
A slightly foolish but good-hearted crow who becomes a loyal ally to Mrs. Frisby after she saves him from a dangerous predicament.
Brutus
Brutus
A young and strong rat who serves as a vigilant guard for the rat colony while demonstrating loyalty to his friends.
Teresa, Martin, and Cynthia Frisby
Teresa, Martin, and Cynthia Frisby
The other three Frisby children; Teresa is the responsible eldest daughter, Martin is the bold elder son, and Cynthia is the cheerful youngest daughter.
240
Novel • Fiction
Countryside • Early 1970s
1971
Middle grade
8-12 years
790L
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