The Society of Distinguished Lemmings

They live by strict, no-nonsense rules, and few newcomers are accepted into their Society of Distinguished Lemmings. When Bertie, a lemming who has tired of their rigid ways, wants a rather unseemly creature to join their furry pack, the other lemmings only hesitantly attempt to train him in their distinguished ways, finally declaring him unsuitable to their likings. Bertie, however, finds comfort in the bear’s less stringent ways and likes the simple lifestyle he leads. While the others vacation at the beach, the pair happily stay behind only to realize the others may be in grave danger. A life-saving rescue transforms the other lemmings’ thinking, and suddenly bear’s status becomes as distinguished as their own.

In The Society of Distinguished Lemmings, debut author Julie Colombet offers readers a creative combination of text and dialogue bubbles. Together, they make for a delightful and appealing story for young children that is filled with adorable and lively illustrations. Their light, blended hues add a warm and welcoming tone to the text.

The exclusivity of the lemmings’ distinguished society parallels that of the cliques that exist among young people today. Bertie’s character provides children with an alternative to trying desperately to fit into groups in which their true selves don’t belong. Through his actions, they are encouraged to seek friendships with others who are more relatable to them, ultimately bringing them greater happiness in the end.