I have a 2-1/2 year old daughter who enjoys complicated story lines, so I bought this book because it is listed as appropriate for ages 4-8. A 4-year old would be too old for this book (never mind an 8-year old!). It's a somewhat cute story and it has great illustrations, but it's very basic book with few words and a very simple plot. Also, the message is about being devious (tricking the mouse to share its strawberry), when it would more appropriately teach the concept of sharing.