A very sweet story about a mouse named Vanessa who overcomes her shyness. Cute illustrations. It encourages shy kids to reach out- or at least say "Hello!". Vanessa's mom tells her to take a risk and to try to make friends by just saying two syllables to her fellow critters.
Vanessa's first whispered attempt at a greeting, then her shouted, aggressive attempt that results in a fleeing toad. A variety of animals are presented, in pen and ink pics in shades of gray.